Introduction

In the vast landscape of India’s social development sector, few names command as much respect and admiration as Shri Mathew Jose — a man whose life’s journey exemplifies dedication, discipline, and an unshakable belief in structured service to humanity.
Serving today as the Patron of MAGNA (Malayalee Association Greater Noida) and the Chief Treasurer of the Delhi Malayalee Association (DMA), Shri Mathew Jose has become a beacon of professional integrity and social commitment.

With a career spanning over four decades, he has seamlessly bridged the worlds of corporate management and community development — combining the precision of a financial expert with the compassion of a social reformer. His contribution to building strong governance systems, empowering communities, and guiding institutions toward transparency and sustainability has left a legacy that continues to inspire.

He is not merely a leader; he is a builder of organizations, policies, and people, driven by an unwavering belief that change must be systematic, not accidental.

1. Early Life and Background

Born on May 15, 1959, in the culturally vibrant state of Kerala, Mathew Jose grew up in a modest family guided by the values of hard work, honesty, and empathy. His father, Shri T. M. Joseph, instilled in him a sense of discipline and perseverance that would later become the foundation of his professional ethos.

Education played a pivotal role in shaping Mathew’s worldview. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Kerala University, where he developed a keen understanding of social structures and economic systems. Always a learner, he went on to pursue a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Development, followed by an MBA in Finance (pursued from Swiss University). His academic foundation, combined with his innate curiosity and analytical mindset, equipped him to navigate both corporate and social terrains with confidence.

From a young age, Mathew showed signs of leadership and social awareness. Whether in local community activities or academic environments, he naturally gravitated toward responsibility and structure. He believed that “discipline is the backbone of development” — a principle that would later define his professional and personal life.

2. Career Journey and Social Contributions

Shri Mathew Jose’s career is a testament to evolution — from a promising finance professional in India’s corporate world to a transformative leader in the social development sector.

Corporate Foundations

He began his career with Lumax Industries Ltd. in 1985, where he served as Assistant Manager for over eight years. In an era when compliance and documentation were complex and manual, Mathew mastered the intricate processes of finance management, taxation, excise documentation, vendor management, and production coordination. His role required collaboration with prominent automobile manufacturers like Maruti Udyog, Premier Automobiles, Mahindra & Mahindra, Hindustan Motors, and Ashok Leyland.

His attention to detail, accuracy in accounts, and ability to meet deadlines without compromising on ethics earned him deep respect. The exposure to structured industrial operations gave him an understanding of systems-based management — an insight he would later apply brilliantly in the non-profit sector.

In 1993, he joined Madaan Group of Industries as Accounts and Commercial Officer, managing operations across five production units in Delhi, Gurgaon, Bahadurgarh, and Noida. There he developed expertise in import licenses, taxation, statutory compliances, and corporate documentation.

Yet, despite professional success, Mathew’s heart remained with the people. He often felt that his skills could make a more meaningful difference if used for social good.

Transition to the Development Sector

In 1996, Mathew made a defining decision that would change the course of his life — joining Deepalaya, a Delhi-based NGO founded in 1979 that worked for marginalized children, women, and communities.

Starting as a financial expert and administrator, Mathew soon proved to be far more than a manager. He was a strategic reformer, bringing in systems, transparency, and efficiency into the organization’s structure. Over time, he rose to the position of Director, overseeing finance, administration, HR, and large-scale social programs.

During his 17-year tenure (1996–2013), he played a pivotal role in turning Deepalaya into one of India’s most respected NGOs, known for its Accountability, Credibility, and Transparency (ACT) principles. He led programs in education, health, microfinance, and community development, and established Deepalaya’s reputation as an institution run with corporate discipline but social purpose.

Expanding Horizons – Udayan Care

In 2013, Mathew joined Udayan Care, another nationally reputed NGO that works for child welfare, education, and women empowerment. As Director (Administration, Finance & HR), he served until 2021, strengthening the organization’s administrative framework and financial control systems.

Under his stewardship, Udayan Care developed detailed manuals for finance, HR, and administration, implemented a zero-tolerance policy on compliance, and achieved multiple property acquisitions and infrastructure expansions. He managed multi-state programs with global agencies such as UNICEF and the Ministry of Finance, ensuring flawless execution and reporting.

His tenure at Udayan Care cemented his reputation as a system builder — a leader who transforms organizations through policy frameworks that endure beyond individuals.

3. Major Projects and Accomplishments

Mathew Jose’s portfolio of achievements spans decades and impacts tens of thousands of lives. Among the many highlights:

  • Community Development & SHG Programmes:
    Spearheaded Self-Help Group (SHG) and Microfinance initiatives across five states — Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, empowering over 8,000 women entrepreneurs and forming more than 1,500 SHGs.
  • Health and Hygiene Programmes:
    Implemented a personal hygiene and menstrual awareness project for over 11,000 adolescent girls under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in rural Mewat (Haryana and Rajasthan) — a region known for developmental challenges.
  • Infrastructure and Property Acquisitions:
    Oversaw Change of Land Use (CLU) for 20 acres of agricultural land for institutional construction after 12 years of persistent effort — an achievement few NGOs can boast.
    Directed the construction of nine major buildings, including schools, a vocational training centre, hostels, and offices for Deepalaya.
  • International Partnerships and Forums:
    Organized World Forums and International Seminars in collaboration with Burgundy School of Business (France), bringing together delegates from 30+ countries to exchange knowledge on community development.
  • Accreditation and Awards:
    Under his financial leadership, Deepalaya and Udayan Care received multiple national awards for Best NGO Performance, Accountability, and Transparency.
    Both organizations continue to operate using the manuals and systems he designed, a testament to his foresight and sustainable planning.
  • Government and Donor Approvals:
    Obtained 35AC exemptions from the Ministry of Finance for various projects, successfully managed programs funded by UNICEF, World Bank, UNESCO, USAID, EU, NABARD, and PLAN International, among others.

Mathew’s own words capture his philosophy best:

“The footprints I left behind are still there. Neither no one walked on that, nor they couldn’t remove that.”

It is a reflection not of pride, but of permanence — that his work continues to guide institutions long after he has moved on.

4. Vision and Philosophy

Shri Mathew Jose’s philosophy can be summed up in one powerful idea:
“Systems sustain organizations; compassion sustains people.”

He believes that NGOs and social enterprises must combine heart with structure. Emotions may initiate a cause, but only systems can keep it alive. Throughout his career, he has advocated for strong internal controls, financial transparency, and policy-based governance.

His vision extends beyond individual success — he aims to build institutions that outlive their founders. To him, true leadership means making oneself dispensable by creating robust processes and nurturing capable successors.

He also champions capacity building — empowering staff and community members to manage resources effectively. His training sessions on good governance, income tax, financial management, and NGO compliance have enlightened hundreds of professionals across India.

His mantra remains simple yet profound:

“An organization’s credibility is its greatest asset. Build it, protect it, and it will protect your mission.”

5. Impact on Society and Community

The social impact of Mathew Jose’s work is both measurable and immeasurable.

On a tangible level, he has transformed community development programs into sustainable livelihood models. Women who once struggled for daily wages now run small enterprises. Adolescents who attended his hygiene programs have grown into advocates for health awareness. Institutions he guided have become benchmarks for accountability in the development sector.

On a community level, his influence extends into cultural and regional organizations. As the Chief Treasurer of the Delhi Malayalee Association (DMA) — one of the largest and oldest Malayalee welfare bodies in North India — Mathew has played a vital role in financial discipline, community welfare programs, and the preservation of Kerala’s cultural heritage in the capital.

As the Patron of MAGNA (Malayalee Association Greater Noida), he mentors a younger generation of community leaders, guiding them in building transparent and vibrant associations that embody unity and service.

His involvement in organizations like the Kerala Education Society (which runs four Kerala schools in Delhi) and various social boards underlines his lifelong commitment to education, culture, and welfare.

6. Personal Traits and Leadership Style

Behind Mathew Jose’s calm demeanor lies a leader of unwavering principles. His colleagues often describe him as firm yet fair, systematic yet empathetic.

He is a visionary planner, known for turning challenges into opportunities through rational thinking and consistent effort. His approach to leadership is democratic — he listens, deliberates, and then decides with conviction.

Mathew is also a mentor and motivator. He believes in sharing knowledge generously and grooming others to take charge. His colleagues admire his ability to remain composed under pressure, make data-driven decisions, and lead by example.

A man of strong ethical foundation, he maintains zero tolerance for financial or legal non-compliance, often attending labor and civil courts personally to defend his organization’s interests — and winning several such cases single-handedly.

Outside work, Mathew finds strength in family and faith. His wife, Mrs. Sherly Mathew, a retired Central Government employee, and his daughter Ms. Feby Mathew, an architect, have been his unwavering pillars of support.

7. Quotes and Testimonials

“Mathew Sir doesn’t just manage organizations — he architects legacies. His systems are so robust that they continue to guide teams long after he has moved on.”
— President, Malayalee Association Greater Noida.

“The footprints I left behind are still there. Neither no one walked on that, nor they couldn’t remove that.”
— Mathew Jose, reflecting on his journey

“Integrity and structure are two sides of the same coin — and Mathew Sir embodies both with rare balance.”
— Senior Member, Delhi Malayalee Association

8. Mathew Jose – in Social Service

Shri Mathew Jose has been deeply involved in social and community service from a very young age. His association with organized social work began at the age of 16, when he became the Founder Secretary of an Arts and Sports Club, which has since grown into an established institution with its own building and playground. During his college years, he served as the Coordinator of the Career, Counselling and Guidance Centre at Bishop Moore College, Mavelikara, actively guiding students and promoting youth participation. Deeply engaged in various youth organizations, he also contested for the University Union Councillor in 1980, showcasing his early leadership spirit. A disciplined and patriotic individual, he received extensive training with the Regular Army (26 Madras Regiment) for 90 days and passed the NCC Certificate Examination, serving as Senior Under Officer of the Quilon Group representing Kerala and Lakshadweep Region. He also gained advanced training for National-level shooting competitions, winning several certificates for excellence in handling 0.22 Rifle, .303 Rifle, LMG, and SLR. In Delhi, his social involvement extended further as the Chief Executive (Hon.) of Vidya Grants, an organization that provided scholarships and laptops to children across North India. He also founded DEWS (Deepalaya Employees Welfare Society), which grew to include more than 400 active members. Presently, he continues his community service through various socio-cultural platforms, serving as the Chief Treasurer of the Delhi Malayalee Association (DMA), Joint Secretary of the Central Committee of Kerala Education Society, and an active member of MAGNA (Malayalee Association of Greater Noida).

9. Conclusion

Shri Mathew Jose’s life story is not just one of career milestones; it is the story of commitment to collective progress. Over forty years of service — spanning industry, non-profits, and community organizations — he has demonstrated that sustainable change requires systems, integrity, and compassion working in harmony.

His work has empowered thousands, strengthened institutions, and inspired countless professionals to follow a path of responsibility and ethical leadership.

As he continues to serve as Patron of MAGNA and Chief Treasurer of DMA, his influence extends far beyond financial stewardship. He stands as a mentor, a reformer, and a living testament to the belief that real success is measured not in wealth or recognition, but in the number of lives transformed for the better.

In the words of his admirers, Shri Mathew Jose is not merely a professional — he is a movement in himself, reminding us that when values meet vision, impact becomes inevitable.