MIAMI (Diya TV) — Victor Menezes, a former Citigroup executive and co-founder of the American India Foundation (AIF), died on February 4. He was 77.
Menezes, a respected banker and philanthropist, retired as senior vice chairman of Citigroup after a distinguished 32-year career. He was among the first Indian-origin executives to lead a multinational corporation.
Born in India, Menezes graduated from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and later earned a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He played a crucial role in global finance, overseeing operations across multiple regions and industries.
Beyond banking, Menezes is deeply into philanthropy. In 2001, he co-founded AIF to assist with relief operations following the severe earthquake in Bhuj, Gujarat. The not-for-profit organization has since benefited over 18.88 million people in India by working with them on their healthcare, education, and livelihood programs.
AIF’s global board co-chair, Lata Krishnan, described Menezes as “a true champion of AIF,” saying, “His legacy of service and social change will inspire generations.” Another co-founder, Pradeep Kashyap, praised Menezes for his intellect and compassion, saying, “He brought not only expertise and resources to AIF but also empathy and a human touch.”
Menezes also served on several high-profile boards, including MIT, Catholic Charities, and the Asia Society.
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.
