Sandeep Uppal, the President and CEO of HSBC Philippines, is no stranger to the country, having been assigned here in the late 1990s and even welcoming the birth of his daughter in Manila during that time. Now back in the Philippines in 2022, Uppal is enthusiastic about the country’s potential and his role as CEO.
Uppal appreciates the welcoming nature of the Philippines and its international orientation, making it a favorable place for expatriates like him. He has fond memories of the Philippines, where he began his family.
HSBC has a rich history in the Philippines, dating back 148 years. Uppal noted the bank’s historical significance, including its role as the official depository of the US government in the Philippines from 1899 to 1910 and its involvement in various infrastructure projects.
Today, HSBC continues to support the Philippine government by arranging sovereign bond issues and promoting the country as an attractive investment destination. Recently, the bank signed an agreement with the trade department to attract more foreign direct investments to the Philippines.
Uppal views it as an honor to lead HSBC Philippines, especially as the bank approaches its 150th anniversary in the country in 2025. He emphasizes the bank’s commitment to building a great franchise based on a growing economy, population, and liberalization.
HSBC is actively participating in sustainable finance initiatives, recently providing a $24.5 million green loan for a local waste management operation in Cebu. The bank is dedicated to achieving net-zero emissions in its operations and financing portfolio.
Uppal acknowledged the progress made by the Philippines in sustainable financing, citing the Sustainable Finance Framework issued by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in 2020. He believes there is huge potential for renewable energy investments, transmission facilities, battery systems, and the waste management industry, all aligning with the country’s clean energy goals.
Uppal’s career journey with HSBC has taken him to various countries and roles, including head of the multinational corporations business, providing him with a diverse and enriching experience. He emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and career planning, advising colleagues to enjoy their careers and stay healthy for the long term.
As a CEO, Uppal values his family time and weekends, which are unstructured to provide a relaxing counterbalance to his structured workweek. He also spends time with friends and colleagues, offering advice on career planning and emphasizing the importance of consistency and stamina in a successful career.
