Sujay Thakur is a New Mexico-based entrepreneur, investor, and educator whose career bridges global finance, real estate development, and education innovation.

A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, with a degree in Chemical Engineering and Finance, he later completed the Owner/President Management Programme at Harvard Business School.

Thakur began his career on Wall Street, working with Union Bank of Switzerland, Investment Technology Group, Lehman Brothers, and BNP Paribas, where he managed international equity and derivatives trading teams across New York, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. These roles shaped his understanding of global markets, risk, and leadership at scale.

In 2004, he founded Raj Holdings and Thakur Enterprises, two interconnected companies focused on real estate development, acquisition, and management. Together, they have developed over 1.5 million square feet of industrial, retail, and residential property across the United States. Thakur also invests in education, hospitality, and childcare ventures, always emphasising sustainable and community-driven growth.

Now studying artificial intelligence at Harvard’s D³ Institute, Thakur is exploring how technology can enhance early childhood education. He supports institutions such as Manzano Day School and Bosque School, reflecting his long-term commitment to learning and innovation. A lifelong reader and self-described “iterative thinker,” Thakur believes in continuous improvement, curiosity, and leading with integrity.

Q&A with Sujay Thakur

You grew up in Gallup, New Mexico. How did those early years influence your work ethic?

Growing up in Gallup taught me to value hard work and humility. I had my first job at McDonald’s, and it turned out to be an important lesson in responsibility. I was proud that our drive-thru became the highest-grossing west of the Mississippi. That experience showed me that even small roles matter when you give them your all.

You studied Chemical Engineering and Finance at UC Berkeley — a unique mix. Why that combination?

I wanted to understand how things worked — both structurally and economically. Engineering gave me the ability to think systematically, while finance taught me how to apply that thinking in a real-world context. It’s a balance that’s guided every decision I’ve made in business.

What drew you to Wall Street after university?

The challenge. I started at Union Bank of Switzerland and later moved to Investment Technology Group. By the time I was at Lehman Brothers and BNP Paribas, I was managing international sales trading desks across four continents. It was fast-paced, competitive, and incredibly educational.

You managed large teams in New York, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. What did you learn from that global exposure?

Cultural awareness is critical. I learned that leadership isn’t about control; it’s about clarity and trust. Whether you’re in Tokyo or New York, people follow focus and consistency.

After such a high-profile finance career, what inspired your move into real estate?

It started with a desire to build something tangible. In 2004, I launched Raj Holdings and Thakur Enterprises. Over the years, we’ve developed more than 1.5 million square feet of industrial, retail, and residential property. I like projects that make a visible difference in communities.

You also invest in education and childcare. Why are those areas important to you?

Education is the foundation of everything. I’ve donated to schools like Manzano Day and Bosque because I believe early learning shapes lifelong success. I’m now studying how artificial intelligence can be used to enhance education for children as young as six months.

You mentioned AI — what interests you most about it?

I’m currently at Harvard’s D³ Institute learning about AI applications in education. I see AI as a tool that can personalise learning, close achievement gaps, and empower teachers. It’s not about replacing people; it’s about giving them better tools.

What challenges have you faced in your business journey?

The financial crisis tested me deeply. At one point, I had $25 million in loans during one of the toughest market downturns in history. But resilience and iteration — the willingness to adapt and refine — got me through it.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy today?

Focus and execution. I believe in setting clear goals, refining them, and executing with precision. As I often say, “Like a CEO, I’m constantly thinking about execution.” That mindset helps manage expectations and maintain momentum.

You’re known as a lifelong learner. What keeps you motivated?

Curiosity. I read six to eight books a month, mostly autobiographies. People like Franklin, Mandela, and Jobs inspire me. Every great achiever started by learning relentlessly.

What’s next for you?

Continuing to build — in business and in education. I want to see AI integrated meaningfully into classrooms and to keep expanding our developments responsibly. Success isn’t just profit; it’s impact.

To learn more about Sujay Thakur and his ongoing work in real estate and education, visit his professional profile.

Read more:
Interview with Sujay Thakur: Building Vision from the Ground Up