Beyond Titles Podcast – Episode 9

Meet Richard Rekhy, a man who carved his own path from an unexpected start in chartered accountancy to becoming the CEO of KPMG India. In a candid chat with  @Suraj_Nangia , Richard opens up about his journey , how he helped build the Delhi office at RSM & Co, dealt with the strict culture at Arthur Andersen, and turned challenges at KPMG into opportunities for growth.

He talks about the proud moments of becoming CEO, the tough phase during the 2016 internal rifts and team exits, and the personal crossroads he faced when he decided to step down in 2017.

Richard also shares the reality behind leadership, the pressure, the loneliness, and how to stay grounded when everyone’s watching. Along the way, he drops some honest, practical advice for young, chartered accountants and professionals trying to make their mark.

Making the choice to quit a job is never easy. I am sharing my personal experience with leaving my role and clearing up a misunderstanding.

When I decided on my final morning in the office that I was moving on, I had to reflect on my team. Specifically, I had named a colleague as my professional successor, but there was tension between us. He felt I was ignoring him during that transition period, which was a misconception I want to address directly on camera.

This story highlights the complexities of workplace relationships during a career transition. Often, what we perceive as neglect from a leader might actually be the result of misaligned expectations or private pressures. I hope this reflection provides clarity on how these dynamics play out behind the scenes.

Subscribe for weekly career and leadership reflections, and comment below if you have ever faced an unexpected misunderstanding while leaving a position.

00:00 - 00:24 Introduction

00:25 - 02:48 How Richard began his CA journey

02:49 - 08:38 Starting with RSM & Co and Building Delhi Office

08:39 - 12:44 Transition to Arthur Andersen: Cultural Shock, Discipline & Leadership Lessons

12:45 - 20:06 Richard's Journey in KPMG : Turning Struggles into Profitaibility

20:07 - 26:16 Becoming KPMG India CEO: Election Process & Leadership Transition

26:17 - 31:17 The Tough Phase of 2016: Internal rifts, team exits and leadership turbulence

31:18 - 35:33 The Final Exit from KPMG in 2017

35:34 - 36:51 Richard's Decisions of Leaving all major firms

36:52 -38:10 The Loneliness of Leadership

38:11 - 42:18 Handling Press and Reputation & Leadership Lessons

42:19 - 44:20 Advice for Young CAs

44:21 - 49:47 Indian Homegrown Firms vs. Global Big Four: Can India Build Its Own Giants?

49:48 - 52:18 How AI & Technology Are Transforming Consulting world ?

52:19 - 54:10 Essential Soft Skills for Partners and Leaders

54:11 - 56:26 Why Richard Joined Grant Thornton?

56:27 - 57:25 Advice to Future Professionals

57:26 - 1:05:03 Rapid Fire with Richard Rekhy: Insights, regrets & Quick Takes

01:05:04 Outro