Director – Administration, Social Development & Women Leadership
Leadership
Board, Directors &
Secretariat
Meet the institutional leaders shaping strategy, governance, and execution for SMILES-WEF across the globe.
10 Board Members 5 Secretariat 4 Regions
Er. SELVAM CHANDRAKASU
MANAGING DIRECTOR
- Institutional Leadership
- Strategic Global Initiatives
- Economic Development
Building Bridges for a Resilient Global Economy
SMILES–World Economic Forum was conceived with a singular vision: to create a neutral, globally credible institution that serves as the bridge between aspiration and achievement for the world's small and medium enterprises. In an era of economic complexity, no single entity can solve the challenges of sustainable growth alone.
It requires the structured collaboration of governments, industries, and civil society-united not by political ideology, but by a shared commitment to inclusive prosperity. We are dedicated to fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives and barriers to growth are dismantled.
This forum is a catalyst for action. We invite global leaders to join us in this mission to build an economic ecosystem that is equitable, innovative, and resilient for generations to come.
"We stand committed to institutional integrity, political neutrality, and the unwavering belief that when we strengthen SMEs, we strengthen the world."
Er. Selvam Chandrakasu
Managing Director, SMILES – World Economic Forum
Er. Krishna Jegan
Ponnuswamy
DIRECTOR
- Institutional Governance
- Strategic Partnerships
- Enterprise Development
Fostering Resilient Economic Systems
The global economic landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, shaped by technological advancement, evolving trade frameworks, and the growing imperative for inclusive and sustainable development. In this context, institutions governed with integrity and guided by long-term public interest assume a critical role in fostering resilient economic systems. SMILES – World Economic Forum is positioned to serve this role as a neutral and credible global platform.
As a Director of SMILES-WEF, I view the Forum as an institutional bridge that connects policy intent with enterprise capability, and global perspectives with practical, on-ground implementation. The strength of SMILES-WEF lies in its disciplined governance architecture, transparent operating framework, and unwavering commitment to neutrality-qualities that are essential for building trust across governments, industry, and international partners.
As we move forward, SMILES-WEF will continue to reinforce its institutional foundations, expand responsible global partnerships, and uphold the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and accountability. I invite stakeholders who share these values to collaborate with us in shaping future-ready economies that serve society at large.
"The Forum's programs, chapters, and partnerships are conceived not as standalone engagements, but as instruments of sustained impact... contributing to economic outcomes that are inclusive, measurable, and enduring."
Er. Krishna Jegan Ponnuswamy
Director, SMILES – World Economic Forum
Sets strategic direction, approves policy, and holds fiduciary responsibility for the institution.
Director – Defence Technology, Strategic Research & National Security
Director – Global Finance, Infrastructure & Sustainable Development
Director – Startups, Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Director – International Relations, Technology & Institutional Development
Director – Industry & Manufacturing
Director – Higher Education & Research
Director – Global Investment / Venture Capital
Director – Diaspora & International Partnerships
Director – Legal / Governance / Institutional Affairs