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.