Breaking Barriers: The Remarkable Journey of Mr. Nixon Joseph From Banker to Marathoner and Changemaker
Some journeys are defined not by a single profession or achievement, but by the willingness to keep evolving. Mr. Nixon Joseph, a retired State Bank of India (SBI) officer, social-impact professional, marathon runner and sustainability advocate, represents such a journey. His career reflects a unique combination of banking expertise, leadership, social responsibility, fitness and a commitment to inspiring the next generation.
Currently serving as Group Executive Director of Dignity Education Vision International (DEVI Sansthan), Lucknow, since November 2024, Nixon Joseph continues to contribute to the education and social-development sector. DEVI Sansthan is a non-profit organisation established in 1992 with a focus on serving the education sector. Earlier, from 2021 to 2024, he served as CEO of Children’s Lovecastles Trust (CLT India), Bengaluru.
Nixon Joseph began his banking career with the State Bank of India in 1985 as a Probationary Officer. Over a distinguished career, he gained extensive experience across corporate credit, retail operations, international banking and other areas of financial services. His international assignments included serving as Manager (Operations) at SBI Bahrain and as Chief Executive Officer of the SBI Tokyo Branch from 2008 to 2012.
A postgraduate in English Language and Literature, he also holds a Diploma in International Banking & Finance and professional certifications in credit, banking compliance and information systems. During his banking career, he played an important role in developing SBI’s Carbon Credit Policy and Green Banking Policy, reflecting his early interest in sustainability and responsible finance.
After retiring from SBI in May 2021 as President & COO of SBI Foundation, Nixon Joseph continued his work in social impact. He joined SBI Foundation in 2016 and, during his tenure as Coordinator of the SBI Youth for India Fellowship Programme, helped mentor around 100 young people each year and contributed to the programme’s growth. He has also mentored several social enterprises founded by SBI Youth for India fellows.
His leadership in the CSR sector extended to supporting impactful and sustainable initiatives aimed at helping underprivileged communities and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He was involved in initiatives including the Centre of Excellence for Persons with Disabilities, promoting inclusion and opportunities for a more diverse society.
Beyond banking and social impact, Nixon Joseph has built an extraordinary personal story through long-distance running. He started running full marathons at the age of 45 despite never having been an athlete. Since then, he has completed 74 full marathons, each covering 42.195 kilometres. His remarkable consistency has earned him recognition as “SBI’s Marathon Legend” and has inspired thousands, particularly young people, to embrace fitness and perseverance.
He has participated in SBI Green Marathons to promote sustainability and positive social change and has been recognised as a Fit India Ambassador under the Government of India’s Fit India movement. He has also been nominated to the Tata Mumbai Marathon Legends Club.
His contribution to public service and social development has earned several recognitions, including the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Award 2018 for Excellence in Public Service and the Dr. Kalam Memorial Ignited Minds Award. He was also recognised as a COVID Warrior by the Governor of Maharashtra for his role in COVID-19 relief initiatives.
A sought-after speaker on CSR, sustainability and social impact, Nixon Joseph participated in more than 275 webinars during the 2020–21 lockdown period. He has served on various advisory boards, governing councils and academic committees and continues to work as a social impact auditor and CSR/SDG advisor.
From a banking professional to a marathoner and changemaker, Nixon Joseph’s journey demonstrates that professional retirement is not the end of contribution—it can be the beginning of a new chapter of purpose, leadership and inspiration.
