With over 20 years of experience in public policy, infrastructure, and technology, Sanjay Kaul to spearhead GIFT City’s next phase of growth.
Senior IAS officer Sanjay Kaul (2001 batch, Kerala cadre) officially assumed charge on Monday as the Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) — India’s flagship smart city and the country’s first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). He takes over from retired IAS officer Tapan Ray, who served in the role since 2019.
Bringing Two Decades of Leadership in Policy, Infrastructure, and Technology
Mr. Kaul brings a rich and diverse professional background with more than two decades of service across key sectors including public policy, infrastructure development, technology, and finance. Prior to this appointment, he served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
His earlier assignments include leadership positions such as Managing Director of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd. and critical roles at Gujarat Informatics Ltd., where he played an instrumental role in strengthening the state’s technological and tourism landscape. His career is deeply connected to Gujarat’s developmental trajectory.
Vision: Positioning GIFT City as a Global Financial and Tech Powerhouse
Sharing his vision for GIFT City, Mr. Kaul called his appointment a pivotal moment in the city’s journey toward becoming a world-class hub for finance and technology.
“It is a privilege to lead GIFT City at this crucial stage of its growth. I look forward to building on the strong groundwork laid so far—driving strategic initiatives, forging global partnerships, and enhancing GIFT City’s position as a project of national importance,” Kaul remarked.
He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering an exceptional urban experience for both businesses and residents, and emphasized GIFT City’s potential to set a global benchmark for smart city development.
Academic Excellence and Global Exposure
Originally hailing from Gujarat, Mr. Kaul holds a degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Surat. He further honed his expertise in public governance by completing a professional degree in Public Policy from Syracuse University, New York, USA.
