Banking News – Traditionally, it is common for future generations to follow the career paths of their ancestors, particularly in politics, professions, and businesses. However, Pranisha Shrestha, the Chief Market Manager of NMB Bank, has successfully challenged this trend by choosing a profession in banking, unlike her family’s business-focused background.

Growing up in a joint family, Pranisha had five members in her household: her father, mother, elder brother, younger sister, and herself. She attended private schools from an early age and later completed her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at St. Xavier’s and Kathmandu University, respectively. Her entire family was involved in business, and Pranisha too contributed to the family business while completing her education. However, she never considered starting her own business.

Her mother, a teacher, was the only exception in the family, and while Pranisha had seen everyone around her in business, she never envisioned herself as a businesswoman. But observing her aunt (maiju) stand on her own feet, Pranisha realized that a career in banking could offer a fulfilling life. “At that time, women were rarely seen working in banks. But seeing my aunt, I felt I could do this too,” she recalls.

Pranisha’s career journey began in the banking sector, and initially, she planned to return to business after working for two years. However, her interest in business gradually faded, and she stayed on in banking, moving from Standard Chartered Bank to NMB Bank.

NMB Bank’s First Female Branch Manager

When Pranisha joined NMB Bank, there were 23 branches, all headed by male managers. She was the first female branch manager. “I was the only female branch manager among 23 branches. Looking back today, I feel proud that I was able to create a space for women’s leadership within this bank,” she said. She believes that compared to other sectors, banking provides better security, self-reliance, and respect for women.

Pranisha married eight years ago and has one child. She lives in a joint family and mentions that being a mother and daughter-in-law adds responsibility, which she believes is manageable with the support of the family. She emphasizes that banking is an excellent career for women. “If you’re unable to make it on time due to family responsibilities, seeking support is essential. Whether we are happy or unhappy depends on our own actions,” she shared.

She acknowledges that every job comes with its challenges, but how one manages them is within their control. In a male-dominated society, household duties are still considered a woman’s responsibility, which sometimes makes it difficult to balance work and family. However, Pranisha believes that when partners work together, the challenges of a banking job can be mitigated.

She also stresses that being a woman should never be an excuse to shy away from difficult tasks. She notes that managing senior colleagues at work sometimes feels uncomfortable, but it is a part of leadership. Pranisha is currently handling five departments at the bank and believes her leadership style differs from others. “I believe in teaching others rather than simply leading them,” she said.

Her leadership philosophy has allowed her to work across multiple departments, and she believes that family support is crucial for women entering the banking sector. Rather than just sticking to a 9-5 job, she wants to serve as an inspiration for other women in the field.

This story is part of a week-long special series by Banking News, focusing on the contributions of women in leadership roles in banking and insurance, in celebration of International Women’s Day (March 8, Falgun 24 in the Nepali calendar).