Building teams, driving change: inside Mary Savitha’s leadership
Mary Savitha’s career journey at Bread Financial® reflects a path defined by growth, grit and grace. Working at the company’s India location, she began as a manager on a three-member team, going on to launch new customer features and playing a significant role in the creation of more scalable operations, prompting a promotion to director of delivery operations.
Under her leadership, the delivery operations team has expanded from 10 to more than 125 associates, with added responsibilities around operational efficiencies, account protection and more. Her work ethic and advancement are rooted in a people-first leadership style and a commitment to cross-functional collaboration.
“I’ve learned that leadership is about showing up with purpose and creating space for others to grow,” said Savitha. “I’ve found that when people feel seen and heard, they do their best work. My journey has taught me that progress isn’t always loud, but it’s always intentional.”
Savitha’s promotion in July 2024 was not only a recognition of her operational expertise, but her ability to align global teams and deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes. In 2023, she was also recognized for her hard work as a Bread Financial Hall of Fame inductee.
For Savitha, empowerment is not a philosophy but a daily practice. She leads by creating a space where curiosity and care are expected, and her large, diverse team can feel heard, respected and valued. Her vision is clear: when you foster an environment where collaboration, learning and well-being thrive together, you can empower customers and deliver on business goals.
Avinash Gumma, a delivery operations manager, has worked closely with Mary for five years. “She’s incredibly supportive, challenges us with meaningful work and consistently promotes a healthy work-life balance,” said Avinash. “Her guidance played a key role in our team earning an India site award for outstanding team impact — a career highlight for me.”
In addition to her daily responsibilities, Savitha also leads initiatives for the company’s associate wellness program, LivingWell, that advocates for mental health, financial fitness and physical well-being as essential components of a healthy workforce. She has championed a variety of wellness efforts, including the opening of a new fitness center, the introduction of yoga, Zumba and mobility sessions, and the adoption of financial wellness tools at the India office.
“Your health is the biggest luxury you can own,” said Savitha. “When that mindset shifted for me, so did my confidence. That’s the transformation I want others to experience, too.”
Looking ahead, Savitha is fostering wellness, promoting continuous learning and mentoring the next generation of leaders who will carry Bread Financial’s values forward. Personally, she hopes to keep pushing boundaries — getting stronger, exploring more of the world and embracing what brings joy and clarity.
“I’ve learned that real leadership starts with knowing yourself, caring deeply for others and choosing progress over perfection,” said Savitha. “If my story helps someone believe in their own — that’s the most meaningful impact I can hope for.”
About Bread Financial®
Bread Financial® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions to millions of U.S. consumers. Our payment solutions, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower our customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, we deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through our private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers.
To learn more about Bread Financial, our global associates and our sustainability commitments, visit breadfinancial.com or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.
