WHO
Anil Chadha, Chief Financial Officer at Regions Bank
WHAT
The Birmingham Business Journal’s 2026 Financial Leadership Awards shine a spotlight on top financial leaders who help drive growth and long-term success across metro Birmingham.
While financial leaders often work behind the scenes, the BBJ notes their expertise plays a critical role in moving organizations forward and setting the pace for success. The awards celebrate those leaders whose impact is felt not only within their companies, but across the Magic City.
Honorees were selected based on several factors, including contributions to their organization, company performance, leadership within their industry and involvement in the community. This year’s recipients were recognized during an awards event held April 30 at The Club.
WHY
Anil Chadha embodies strong financial leadership through strategic discipline, operational excellence and a genuine commitment to Birmingham’s business community. Recently named Chief Financial Officer of Regions Financial Corp., Chadha brings decades of experience in finance and risk management and has already played a key role in supporting the company’s sustained performance, balance sheet strength and long-term growth.
As a member of Regions’ Executive Leadership Team, Chadha has helped shape the financial discipline and strategic execution that continue to drive strong earnings, shareholder value and operational resilience. His appointment as CFO reflects both his proven leadership and the confidence senior management has in his ability to help guide Regions into its next phase of growth.
Beyond the organization, Chadha is deeply engaged in Birmingham’s business and civic landscape. He serves on the Finance Advisory Board at the UAB Collat School of Business, is a member of the executive committee of the UAB Athletics Foundation and chairs the boards of both REV Birmingham and the Mike Slive Foundation, supporting economic development, education and the region’s continued success.
IN HIS OWN WORDS
When asked why he chose a career in finance, Chadha pointed to the intersection of strategy, discipline and purpose.
“I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can bring clarity, discipline and strategic insight to complex challenges, and finance sits right at that intersection,” he said. “It allows me to combine analytical thinking with something that truly matters: helping an organization grow responsibly, serve its customers well and create opportunities for its people. Choosing a career in finance was choosing a path where I could make a meaningful and measurable impact.”
Chadha didn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite part of the job.
“By far, the most rewarding part of my role is the opportunity to support people — to help them grow, succeed and find purpose in their work,” he said. “Banking is a people-driven business: bankers serving individuals and families, business owners and entire communities. I’m energized by building a culture where teams feel trusted, empowered and connected to a shared mission. Seeing associates develop new capabilities, take on bigger challenges and thrive in their careers — that’s the true measure of success.”
By far, the most rewarding part of my role is the opportunity to support people — to help them grow, succeed and find purpose in their work.
Anil Chadha, Chief Financial Officer at Regions Bank
Reflecting on the challenges financial leaders face today, Chadha emphasized balance and focus.
“One of the biggest challenges is navigating an environment that can shift quickly, from macroeconomic uncertainty to geopolitical events that impact markets,” he said. “There’s a constant need to respond to external forces while staying anchored to long-term strategic priorities. At Regions, our leadership team encourages associates to focus on what we can control, which isn’t always easy with so much outside noise. But when we remain grounded in disciplined execution, sound decision-making and a commitment to delivering best-in-class service, we can move forward with confidence — even in a complex environment.”