Ashik Chowdhury : From Skydiving Heights to the Helm of BIDA

Ashik Chowdhury: From Skydiving Heights to the Helm of BIDA

Among Bangladesh’s rising stars in leadership, Ashik Chowdhury stands out as a trailblazer — a rare fusion of daring adventurer and strategic thinker. An international banker, record-breaking skydiver, and now the Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), Ashik’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His life story sends a powerful message to the youth: dreams are meant to rise above limits.

Leadership with Altitude: The Rise of Ashik Chowdhury

Ashik’s name has become synonymous with bold, transformative leadership. Born in Chandpur and raised in Jashore, he began his education at Sylhet Cadet College, going on to earn his undergraduate degree from the prestigious Institute of Business Administration (IBA), University of Dhaka. He later pursued postgraduate studies in finance at the London Business School, and is also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).

Professionally, Ashik built a diverse career spanning global organizations — from British American Tobacco to Standard Chartered Bank, American Airlines, and HSBC. As of late 2024, he was an Associate Director at HSBC Singapore, focusing on Infrastructure Finance Investment Banking.

His global exposure and visionary mindset led the Bangladeshi government to appoint him Executive Chairman of BIDA in September 2024, succeeding Lokman Hossain Miah.

Skydiving into the History Books

While his corporate career commands attention, Ashik’s passion for skydiving is what captured global headlines. A trained and licensed skydiver, he underwent rigorous training in Thailand before attempting something spectacular.

On May 25, 2024, Ashik performed a record-breaking skydive from 41,795 feet over Memphis, USA, proudly bearing the Bangladeshi flag. The feat earned him a Guinness World Record for the "Greatest Distance Free Fall with a Banner or Flag."

Sponsored by United Commercial Bank (UCB) and supported by Prothom Alo, this high-altitude leap wasn’t just about adrenaline — it was about national pride and inspiring a generation.

A New Era for Investment and Innovation

As the head of BIDA, Ashik is now driving efforts to create a transparent, tech-driven, and investor-friendly environment in Bangladesh. His appointment symbolizes a shift toward innovation, professionalism, and global standards in public service.

He also holds the post of Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), reinforcing his influence in shaping Bangladesh’s economic landscape.

In recognition of his service, Ashik was granted the rank of State Minister on April 7, 2025 — a testament to his growing impact on national development.

Grounded in Family and Values

Despite his high-flying achievements, Ashik remains deeply grounded in family life. He is married to Nabila, a fellow IBA graduate, and together they are raising a son and a daughter. His family is his foundation, offering him balance and purpose beyond the boardroom.

Beyond Business: A Holistic Leader

Ashik’s influence extends to education and social enterprise. He has taught as a visiting professor at the Bangladesh University of Professionals and served as an advisor to the Grameen Telecom Trust. His ability to bridge corporate expertise with academic and social insight has made him a well-rounded, human-centered leader.

Quick Facts: Who is Ashik Chowdhury?

• Nationality: Bangladeshi

• Current Roles: Executive Chairman of BIDA & BEZA

• Education: Sylhet Cadet College; IBA, University of Dhaka; London Business School

• Professional Background: HSBC, American Airlines, Standard Chartered, BAT

• Notable Achievement: Guinness World Record skydiver (41,795 ft, May 2024)

• Family: Married to Nabila; father of two

• Government Rank: State Minister (since April 2025)

Ashik Chowdhury’s journey—from leaping out of planes to leading Bangladesh’s investment frontier—proves that with courage, vision, and commitment, even the sky is not the limit.

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