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Anand Gandhi
Chief Financial Officer at Viator
Professional Background
Anand Gandhi is a highly accomplished financial professional and seasoned strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with a remarkable track record spanning over 25 years. He has honed his expertise within large publicly traded companies, hyper-growth venture-backed businesses, and within the realms of investment banking. Throughout his illustrious career, Anand has managed multi-billion dollar Profit and Loss (P&L) statements and has been instrumental in leading complex processes such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A), initial public offerings (IPOs), growth equity, venture capital (VC) financing, and debt raising. His influence in the financial landscape is further demonstrated by his leadership of diverse teams across corporate development, strategy, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), accounting, as well as data and analytics.
Anand began his career in the competitive field of M&A at Morgan Stanley, where he developed a solid foundation in investment banking. Building upon this experience, he took on financial, operational, and strategic leadership roles across the dynamic media landscape. He has had the privilege of working with industry giants including Disney, Fox, Viacom, and Time, where he has contributed to major business transformations and growth strategies.
In recent years, Anand served as the CFO of Skillshare, a rapidly growing subscription-driven online learning platform and a two-sided marketplace that connects learners and teachers. In this role, he played a critical part in driving the company's financial strategy and operational success. Currently, he is the CFO of Viator, the world’s largest marketplace for travel experiences, where he continues to apply his strategic vision and financial acumen to enhance Viator's market position and growth trajectory.
Education and Achievements
Anand Gandhi's academic background is as impressive as his professional achievements. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Economics at Columbia University, where he also demonstrated his leadership skills by serving as Class President. His educational foundation at one of the Ivy League institutions has been pivotal in shaping his analytical skills and strategic thinking, enabling him to excel in the complexities of financial management and corporate strategy.
Beyond his formal education, Anand has amassed numerous accolades throughout his career, symbolizing his commitment to excellence and his capability to drive results. His extensive experience has not only allowed him to grow personally and professionally but also to contribute immensely to the organizations he has been a part of, promoting innovative strategies and fostering a culture of collaboration and success.
Notable Achievements
- Expertise in Financial Management: Anand has successfully overseen P&L management for large organizations, which enables him to align financial strategies with broader business goals.
- Leadership in M&A: His experience at Morgan Stanley laid the groundwork for a successful career in corporate development, where he has led numerous M&A initiatives that have catalyzed growth and expansion for various companies.
- Strategic Contributions at Major Media Companies: His leadership roles at Disney, Fox, Viacom, and Time have strengthened his reputation as an expert in corporate development and strategy. He has played vital roles in transforming and scaling business operations within these prominent organizations.
- CFO Role at High-Growth Companies: Anand's recent tenure as CFO of Skillshare showcases his ability to navigate the challenges of hyper-growth environments, where he employed innovative financial strategies to support the company’s expansion.
- Current Leadership: As the CFO of Viator, Anand’s insights and financial management capabilities continue to position the company as the leading marketplace for travel experiences, drawing from his vast experience in the industry.
Anand Gandhi's career reflects not only a commitment to financial excellence but also a passion for innovation and strategic development within the business landscape. His multifaceted background equips him with the skills necessary to take businesses to new heights, making him a respected leader in the financial sector.