Expert Advisory
Microfinance Consulting
Specialized expertise in optimizing microfinance operations and performing rigorous loan portfolio audits for large NBFC MFIs — backed by 40+ years of experience across microfinance and development banking.
S Lalita Rao
Independent Microfinance Consultant
A seasoned top management executive with over 40 years of experience across microfinance and development banking. Her background as AGM at Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), and Head of Audit of Ujjivan Financial Services, coupled with more than 18 years of advising and training NBFC MFIs, positions S Lalita Rao to deliver significant value through enhanced efficiency, risk mitigation, and strategic growth.
Individual Lending • Due Diligence • Loan Portfolio Audit • NBFC MFI Advisory
Experience
Independent Microfinance Consultant — Past experience from 2004 till 2008 and again, June 2010 onwards
Due Diligence & Wholesale Lending
Served as a full-time Consultant, for over a year, conducting comprehensive due diligence on NBFCs across India for Ujjivan SFB's wholesale lending initiatives.
Strategic Advisory to NBFC-MFI
For two years, advised the MD of an all-India NBFC-MFI, offering strategic guidance and process improvements for microfinance lending through regular, detailed branch reviews.
Women's World Banking (WWB) Consultant
Engaged by Women's World Banking (WWB), New York, as a local consultant in India (March 2013 - April 2014; October 2015 - November 2016) to enhance Individual Lending processes for a prominent MFI operating nationwide.
Internal Audit Transformation
Led the transformation of internal audit functions for two NBFC-MFIs by mentoring their Heads of Audit and providing extensive practical and classroom training to their full audit teams. Also developed customized Audit Manuals to institutionalize improved processes.
MFIN Enforcement Committee
Served as an Independent Member on the Enforcement Committee of the Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN), India.
Audit Systems & Training
- Designed and implemented comprehensive audit systems
- Trained pan-India audit teams, handheld each team member with on-the-job trainings
- Provided ongoing monitoring of audit activities
- Developed a Branch Risk Profile as a critical monitoring tool
Consultancy Services
Comprehensive microfinance consulting services tailored to the needs of NBFCs, MFIs, and development finance institutions.
Diagnostic Assessment & Due Diligence
- Conducting in-depth diagnostic studies for NBFCs and MFIs to identify areas for improvement and growth.
- Performing thorough due diligence for wholesale lending to NBFCs, ensuring sound investment decisions.
Risk Management & Operational Efficiency
- Designing and implementing end-to-end Microfinance process audits to minimize operational risks and prevent fraud.
- Developing and enhancing individual lending portfolios, including policy drafting and training in financial analysis for lending to small businesses.
- Streamlining microfinance program design and improving operational processes for greater efficiency.
Growth & Performance Enhancement
- Assisting MFIs in enhancing their overall performance, planning strategic growth, and introducing new products and expanding into new geographies.
Capacity Building & Training Solutions
- Providing specialized training in the Loan Portfolio Audit Toolkit of MicroSave.
- Conducting comprehensive training for staff across all aspects of microfinance operations and management.
- Offering customised training programs in Stress Management, Time Management, and Presentation & Communication Skills.
Key Engagements
Led training for an MFI's Individual Lending team on financial analysis, empowering them to effectively assess and lend to MSME clients nationwide.
Designed and delivered financial analysis training to an MFI's Individual Lending team, enhancing their capacity to support MSME clients across India.
Consulted with an MFI to strengthen their Individual Lending operations by training their team in advanced financial analysis for MSME onlending throughout India.
Ready to Elevate Your Business?
Transform your online presence with future-ready SEO strategies, result-driven PPC advertising, and comprehensive digital marketing services from Bangalore's trusted agency since 2010.