HomeAmericasPeopleBanker, Co-Founder Of American India Foundation, Victor Menezes, Passes Away

Banker, Co-Founder Of American India Foundation, Victor Menezes, Passes Away

Banker, Co-Founder Of American India Foundation, Victor Menezes, Passes Away

Banker, Co-Founder Of American India Foundation, Victor Menezes, Passes Away

Photo: AIF

India-West News Desk

MIAMI, FL – Victor Menezes, the banker, philanthropist and co-founder of the American India Foundation (AIF), passed away on February 4, here. He is survived by his wife, Tara Anne Fonseca, a former beauty queen and Miss Asia-Pacific 1973, and their four children. Menezes was also the brother of Sir Ivan Menezes, the late CEO of Diageo, the makers of Johnnie Walker.

Menezes,77, had a distinguished 32-year career with Citigroup, where he retired as Senior Vice Chairman. He was one of the earliest Indian-origin CEOs to lead a multinational corporation.

A graduate of IIT Bombay and MIT, Menezes played a pivotal role in the financial sector, overseeing operations across multiple geographies and business areas. His legacy in banking was marked by his expertise, leadership, and commitment to building bridges between India and the U.S.

In addition to his banking career, Menezes was deeply committed to philanthropy. He co-founded the American India Foundation in 2001, following the devastating earthquake in Bhuj, Gujarat. AIF’s mission to empower women, children, and youth through initiatives in healthcare, education, and livelihoods has positively impacted over 18.88 million people across India.

Photo: MIT
Banker, Co-Founder Of American India Foundation, Victor Menezes, Passes Away

Menezes was described by AIF co-founder and global board co-chair, Lata Krishnan, as “a true champion of AIF.” Krishnan praised his leadership, saying, “His indelible legacy, built on a foundation of unwavering dedication to service and social change, will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come.” Pradeep Kashyap, another co-founder of AIF, highlighted Menezes’ unique combination of intellect and empathy, noting, “He not only brought his expertise and resources to AIF, but also his human touch, sensitivity, and empathy as a leader.”

Menezes served on various prestigious boards, including MIT, Catholic Charities, and the Asia Society.

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