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Abhishek Mishra joins SRV Media as Vice President, Human Resources

SRV Media, one of India’s leading integrated digital marketing agencies, has announced the appointment of Abhishek Mishra as Vice President, Human Resources. This move reflects the agency’s commitment to building a strong, people-centric culture as it accelerates its growth journey. Abhishek’s professional journey includes leadership roles at Reliance Industries, Aditya Birla Group, Sony Corporation, and most recently, Sakal Media Group, where he led the Talent and Culture vertical as Assistant General Manager—HR. His strategic outlook and human-centred leadership have consistently resulted in enhanced employee engagement, improved talent acquisition, and high-performing teams. Joining SRV Media at a time of rapid expansion and innovation, Abhishek is poised to steer the company’s HR vision—focusing on culture transformation, leadership development, and aligning people strategies with business objectives. Speaking about his new role, Abhishek Mishra shared, “I’m excited to be part of SRV Media’s growth journey. The energy and ambition of the organisation are inspiring, and I look forward to creating a workplace where individuals feel empowered to grow, innovate, and make a meaningful impact.” Vikram Kumar, Co-founder and CEO of SRV Media commented, “Abhishek’s experience and forward-thinking mindset make him an excellent fit for SRV Media. His people-first approach is precisely what we need as we continue to grow and evolve. We’re eager about the fresh perspective he brings to the leadership team.” As SRV Media continues to push boundaries in the digital marketing sphere, Abhishek’s addition to the leadership team underscores the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and facilitating a progressive organisational culture.

Edelman promotes Bhavna Jagtiani to CEO, India & Kunal Arora to MD

Edelman has named a new India CEO and APAC Head of Digital. Bhavna Jagtiani has been elevated from Chief Operating Officer, India to now serve as the firm’s CEO for its India operations. Kunal Arora, Managing Director for India Digital and APAC Studio Lead, takes on an expanded role of Head of Digital, APAC, now overseeing the firm’s Digital offering across the region. Both Jagtiani and Arora will continue to report to Rakesh Thukral, Edelman’s CEO for APAC, with the appointments taking immediate effect.Over her 22-year tenure with Edelman, Jagtiani has grown alongside the firm, having started as an Account Executive to eventually leading integrated teams across India and briefly in Hong Kong. In her most recent role as COO, India, she enhanced operational efficiencies in the market, fostered a strong organisational culture, and strengthened and expanded client mandates, both locally and regionally. As CEO, Jagtiani will now oversee the business strategy and ensure continued market performance in terms of delivering on strategic growth and deepening client relationships, as well as the further enhancement of the firm’s capabilities to deliver award-winning, impactful solutions for its clients.As Managing Director, Digital in India for the past 10 years, Arora has built global client offerings in digital crisis management, social media and digital reputation. He has also managed the APAC expansion of Edelman Studio, the firm’s global production capabilities, bolstered by local expertise and AI enablement. In his new role as Head of Digital for the region, he will partner with leaders across the network to scale the firm's digital operations, which will include overseeing APAC Studio, deepening the team’s skills and capabilities, and ensuring that digital solutions are embedded across all client offerings.Speaking on the appointments, Thukral says: “Bhavna is an undisputed culture champion, having fostered a strong workplace community of collaboration and empowerment. Her leadership in India has been instrumental in driving consistent growth for the market. And Kunal has ensured we continue to integrate the best capabilities and innovation into our offerings, ensuring the firm is equipped to help our clients excel in a constantly changing landscape.“Having worked side-by-side with Bhavna and Kunal, I can personally say their commitment and ability to nurture client relationships and talent make them deserving of their new roles, and I look forward to what we will accomplish together next, in their new capacities.Our digital business in Asia and our India business have potential to grow, and I have no doubt that Kunal and Bhavna are the right leaders to partner with our teams and clients to achieve this.”

Appointments 24-Mar-2025 Rakesh Thukral Kunal Arora Bhavna Jagtiani Edelman

Burson appoints Jonathan Hughes EMEA CEO

Burson has named Jonathan Hughes, former Edelman EMEA COO and Golin CEO, as its new EMEA chief executive. Current EMEA CEO Scott Wilson will leave Burson later this year after 14 years with the company.Hughes will join Burson in June. He had recently announced his departure from Edelman, where Justin Westcott has taken over as EMEA COO.This is Burson's second major leadership change in Europe this year. In January, former Google, Starbucks, Salesforce, and Ofcom communications leader Simon Redfern became the agency's new UK CEO, following Simon Whitehead's move to Portland.Hughes's background includes: * 14 years at Golin, starting as co-MD of the London office and eventually becoming joint CEO. * Roles focused on growing Golin's teams, revenue, Asia network, and digital capabilities. * Previous positions at Weber Shandwick and Ketchum.Hughes said he is excited about the opportunity at Burson, particularly with the agency's focus on innovation, AI technology, and creativity. He believes clients in EMEA face significant opportunities and uncertainties, and he aims to position Burson EMEA as a leading partner for them.Burson global CEO Corey duBrowa praised Hughes's client counseling, innovation, and business-building skills, highlighting his experience in corporate and crisis communications.Wilson, who has been with Burson for over 14 years, oversaw significant mergers within WPP. He expressed his readiness for a change and acknowledged the personal challenges he faced during his tenure.DuBrowa thanked Wilson for his contributions to Burson, BCW, and Cohn & Wolfe.

Appointments 21-Mar-2025 Burson Justin Westcott Simon Whitehead Corey duBrowa Jonathan Hughes Scott Wilson

Apna.co appoints Dr Preet Deep Singh as Head of Public Policy

Apna.co, India’s leading jobs and professional networking platform, has appointed Preet Deep Singh, a former Ministry professional, as Head of Public Policy. With 15 years of experience, he will lead structured government partnerships and leverage AI-driven initiatives to advance employment, education, and upskilling. A seasoned professional, Singh joins Apna.co from Invest India, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, where he served for six years in various leadership roles. At Invest India, he spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including the Startup India programme and the One District One Product (ODOP) programme, which grew from 68 lakhs to more than 5000 crore in government commitments under his leadership. In his most recent role, he led AI adoption for the Government of India. Dr. Singh has been recognised globally for his expertise in AI, being named among the Top 100 in AI by Apolitical. During his initial months at Apna.co, he has played a pivotal role in fostering associations with the Government of Chhattisgarh, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Startup India, The Government of Madhya Pradesh, Advantage Vidarbha, and others. His expertise in driving public policy initiatives will be a significant asset in helping Apna.co achieve its long-term vision. Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Singh said, “I am excited to join Apna.co at this pivotal time in India's digital transformation journey," said Preet Deep Singh. "With my background in National level programmes, technology and economic development, I look forward to working closely with the Apna.co team to create a meaningful impact in employment and skill development across India. Our focus will be on building strong relationships and enabling better talent matching through innovative approaches that go beyond traditional algorithms.” Nirmit Parikh, Founder and CEO of Apna.co added, “We are pleased to welcome Singh onboard. His appointment perfectly aligns with our vision to revolutionise India’s employment landscape. Additionally, Dr Singh’s exceptional track record in leading national-level programmes, deep understanding of government dynamics, and expertise in artificial intelligence will be invaluable as we position Apna.co as a bigger thought leader in the employment space. His leadership will be crucial in scaling our impact and enabling more businesses and candidates to connect meaningfully.” Prior to his government service, Singh built an impressive career in the private sector, leading the Startup Practice at EY India and working in Governance Risk and Compliance services at KPMG. He also demonstrated his entrepreneurial acumen by founding Aperio Management, a startup consulting firm, and WIMWISure, an innovative auto insurance platform utilising blockchain technology. Having been a faculty member for AI and blockchain courses at renowned educational institutes such as IIT Kanpur and IIT Bombay and trained over 25,000 government officers in AI, Singh brings invaluable expertise in skilling and education to Apna.co. He is also an IIMA PhD Gold Medalist and qualified Company Secretary who has made significant academic contributions, being rated in the top 5% of researchers on the Social Science Research Network (SSRN). His achievements include facilitating the resolution of Angel Tax issues, blockchain-based certificates for startups, and implementing automation for trade report generation to support FTA negotiations.

Appointments 20-Mar-2025 Preet Deep Singh Nirmit Parikh Social Science Research Network Angel Tax Aperio Management One District One Product

Zeno Group India Appoints Anmol Jalta as Digital & Creative Lead

Zeno India, one of the leading global integrated communications agency has announced Anmol Jalta as its Digital and Creative Lead. In this newly created role, Anmol will drive the agency’s creative vision, digital strategy and innovation, deepening Zeno’s ability to deliver insight-driven campaigns that connect brands with audiences in meaningful ways.Anmol brings extensive expertise in creative strategy, digital marketing and brand storytelling from work on campaigns including Reckitt, Adobe, Mastercard, Motorola, and Intel. Prior to joining Zeno, she built the Content Marketing practice at B2B tech firm MathCo, leading impact-driven omni-channel marketing campaigns. Her keen understanding of integrated content, social media and emerging technologies will help shape Zeno India’s next phase of digital and creative growth.“Anmol’s expertise aligns perfectly with Zeno’s mission of driving audience-focused, business-impacting communications,” said Zeno’s Abhishek Gulyani, Managing Director, India & Head of Corporate Affairs, APAC. “As the media and digital landscape continues to shift, her leadership will help us craft innovative, culture-driven storytelling that delivers tangible value for brands.”Stepping into the role, Anmol shared: “Creativity, data, and technology must work together to shape impactful brand narratives. In close collaboration with Zeno’s talented team members, I am eager to drive campaigns that push the boundaries of creative storytelling, engage audiences and deliver real business impact.”

Appointments 19-Mar-2025 Zeno Group India Abhishek Gulyani Anmol Jalta

Edelman appoints Christiane Schulz as APAC COO

Edelman has appointed Christiane Schulz as chief operating officer for Asia Pacific (APAC). Schulz transitions from her role as CEO of Edelman Germany and will report to Rakesh Thukral, CEO of Edelman APAC. In her new position, she will focus on enhancing operational excellence and driving client growth across the region.Since joining Edelman in 2019, Schulz has successfully expanded the firm’s presence in Germany, strengthened its market position, and driven business growth. Under her leadership, Edelman Germany diversified its client portfolio and enhanced its capabilities in key sectors while fostering a collaborative, people-first culture and driving innovation.With Schulz’s transition to APAC, Nils Giese will take over as CEO of Edelman Germany, ensuring continuity and sustained growth in the market.Commenting on her new role, Schulz said: “I’m honoured to take on this new challenge and excited to work alongside our talented teams across Asia Pacific. Edelman has a strong foundation in the region, with deep expertise and client relationships, presenting incredible opportunities for growth. I look forward to elevating our work and helping clients navigate today’s complexities to drive meaningful impact.”Thukral added: “Christiane’s deep understanding of diverse markets and dynamic regions, like EMEA, will be invaluable as we strengthen our APAC business. She brings extensive experience in leading large teams and building trusted, long-term client partnerships. I look forward to working closely with her to enhance our operations and accelerate growth across the region.”AJ Hesselink, president and CEO of Edelman EMEA, also acknowledged Schulz’s contributions, stating: “We are incredibly grateful for Christiane’s leadership and the impact she has made in Germany. She has been an exceptional leader and a trusted advisor to many clients. Her contributions have strengthened our position in Germany and shaped the broader region. I am delighted to see her bring her talents to an even wider stage in this new role.”

Appointments 18-Mar-2025 Edelman Christiane Schulz

Carson Dalton Joins GSK as EVP – Communications & Government Affairs

Carson Dalton has been appointed as Executive Vice President – Communications & Government Affairs at GSK, the British multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. He announced his new role on LinkedIn.Before joining GSK, Dalton was with The Coca-Cola Company, where he served as Senior Director, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability – India & Southwest Asia. With over two decades of experience, he is a seasoned communications leader and policy advocacy expert.Dalton’s career spans roles at Ola, the World Economic Forum, Meta, and BT, among others. He began his professional journey as a journalist in Pune, working with Indian Express, Mid-Day, Maharashtra Herald, and JAM Magazine. Additionally, he has also lent his voice as a professional voice-over artist.

Appointments 17-Mar-2025 GSK Carson Dalton

Viraj Chouhan joins RPSG Group as Group Corporate Affairs Officer

Viraj Chouhan, former executive at PepsiCo, has joined RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group as its Group Corporate Affairs Officer. He announced the move on LinkedIn, marking the transition as a fresh beginning coinciding with the festival of Holi.Chouhan expressed enthusiasm about his new role, aligning it with RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group’s vision of sustainable growth, efficiency, and innovation. He also extended gratitude to his colleagues at PepsiCo across global, APAC, and India teams for their support during his six-year tenure.With vast experience in corporate affairs and strategic communication, Chouhan’s appointment is expected to further strengthen RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group’s engagement in key business areas. His expertise in public policy, regulatory affairs, and brand reputation management will be instrumental in driving the conglomerate’s long-term goals.

Appointments 15-Mar-2025 Sanjiv Goenka Group Viraj Chouhan

Sam Zemouri appointed as ED at Auditoire Luxe MENA

Auditoire Luxe MENA, a leading brand experience agency specializing in luxury events and communications, has appointed Sam Zemouri as its new Executive Director.Zemouri, who has been an integral part of Auditoire Luxe for over six years, brings a wealth of expertise in luxury communications, experiential marketing, and high-profile event strategy. His appointment marks a new chapter for the agency as it continues to expand its influence in the MENA region’s luxury sector.Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Zemouri expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating:"I’m thrilled to step into the role of Executive Director at Auditoire Luxe MENA! After six incredible years with the agency, I look forward to leading our next chapter of growth, innovation, and extraordinary luxury experiences."With more than a decade of experience in curating exceptional brand experiences for luxury clients, Zemouri is expected to further elevate Auditoire Luxe’s strategic direction, strengthening its position as a key player in the luxury experiential space.Under his leadership, Auditoire Luxe MENA aims to continue crafting immersive brand narratives and unforgettable luxury experiences, aligning with the evolving expectations of high-end consumers and global luxury brands.

Appointments 11-Mar-2025 MENA Sam Zemouri Auditoire Luxe

Agilitas ropes in Samarpita Samaddar as Communications Lead

Sportswear company Agilitas has roped in Samarpita Samaddar as Communications Lead. In her new role, she will lead the brand and corporate communications alongside PR-led campaigns for the company.Samaddar was previously the Communications Director, India and Southeast Asia at Bumble Inc. where she led the women-first dating app’s communications strategies and multiple award-winning campaigns for almost four years, working as the company’s spokesperson in India. In her career, she has helped establish some of India's now-leading film studios such as Zee Studios and Eros International, working on over 40 film campaigns across genres, languages and budgets, like Bajirao Mastani, Newton, Aligarh, Dhadak, Ki&Ka, and Kesari to name a few.In an illustrious career spanning 14 years, Samaddar built authentic and aspirational brands across diverse sectors including consumer technology, entertainment, the arts, lifestyle, sports, among others.

Appointments 10-Mar-2025 Samarpita Samaddar Agilitas Bajirao Mastani Newton Aligarh Dhadak Ki&Ka Kesari

Value 360 Communications appoints Keshav Shanbhag as CFO

Value 360 Communications, one of India's leading integrated communications firms, has announced the appointment of veteran financial strategist Keshav Shanbhag as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In his role, Shanbhag will be responsible for overseeing the organization's financial health, enhancing access to finance, and managing the overall financial strategy and operations as Value 360 Communications moves towards becoming a publicly listed company.This strategic appointment comes at a pivotal moment as the company has successfully closed its pre-IPO investment round, securing interest from prominent investors including Bollywood actor Huma Qureshi, and prepares to file its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) for its SME IPO.As Value 360 Communications positions itself to become India's first publicly listed PR firm, Shanbhag will spearhead the company's financial strategy and investor relations initiatives. With over 17 years of distinguished experience across investor relations, IPOs, mergers & acquisitions, and business turnarounds, Shanbhag brings exceptional expertise from his successful tenures at industry leaders including MCX, IN10 Media, and Dentsu Aegis Network.At MCX, Shanbhag played an instrumental role in leading the exchange's IPO, which earned recognition as the 'Best Mid-cap Equity Deal' in the APAC region and garnered him the prestigious "Most Valuable Player" accolade.Kunal Kishore, Group CEO & Co-founder of Value 360 Communications, commented: "Bringing Keshav on board as CFO marks a strategic advancement in our journey. His proven expertise in managing IPOs, M&A transactions, and driving business transformation perfectly complements our ambitious five-year growth strategy. We are confident his leadership will be instrumental in creating substantial value for our stakeholders as we work toward scaling our operations exponentially as we complete 20 years of operations in 2027.”The appointment comes as part of Value 360 Communications' strategic restructuring as a listed entity, reinforcing its commitment to governance, scalability, and long-term value creation. Expressing his vision for the role, Keshav Shanbhag said: "I'm honored to join Value 360 Communications at such a transformative juncture in its corporate journey. The opportunity to steer the company's financial strategy as it prepares for its public listing represents a unique challenge. I look forward to leveraging my experience in capital markets and investor relations to advance Value 360 Communications position as the market leader in integrated communications, while delivering exceptional value to our clients, stakeholders, and future shareholders."Value 360 Communications’ five-year growth vision focuses on scaling operations through enhanced capacity building, technology investment, market expansion, and strategic acquisitions. The firm has built an impressive client portfolio that includes market leaders such as Tata Motors, Pernod Ricard, Kia Motors, Skoda, FedEx, Digi Yatra, POCO, Zupee, Mondelez, Audi India, and EaseMyTrip, among others.As the demand for integrated, data-led PR and marketing solutions reaches unprecedented levels, Value 360 Communications is strategically positioned to capitalize on market opportunities through its comprehensive offering that seamlessly integrates strategic advisory, digital intelligence, and technology-driven storytelling.

Appointments 10-Mar-2025 Digi Yatra Keshav Shanbhag Kunal Kishore Value 360 Communications

Singer India appoints Communicate India as communications partner

Singer India, a player in the sewing machine industry and a brand of US-based SVP Worldwide, has appointed Communicate India as its communications partner. This collaboration aims to elevate Singer India’s brand presence, and drive visibility for key initiatives.With a 170-year legacy, Singer India continues to strengthen its market leadership by expanding its product portfolio, redesigning its retail footprint with the launch of its flagship store in Nehru Place, New Delhi, and introducing premium global brands like PFAFF and Husqvarna Viking to the Indian market.Communicate India, a full-service integrated communications agency, brings deep expertise in crafting impactful brand narratives for multinational corporations. Leveraging global insights and data-driven strategies, the agency will play a pivotal role in shaping Singer India’s communication approach, driving engagement, and reinforcing its market positioning.With a proven track record of executing high-impact campaigns, Communicate India will lead Singer India’s storytelling efforts, ensuring a stronger brand connection with consumers and stakeholders alike.Shalini Gupta Vachher, Head of Marketing and Communications of Singer India, said: “As we continue our journey of growth and innovation, we needed a partner who shared our vision and enthusiasm. Communicate India stood out with their exciting and practical ideas, demonstrating a deep understanding of our brand and market dynamics. Their strategic approach aligns perfectly with our commitment to strengthening consumer engagement and brand leadership. We are confident that this partnership will help us amplify our story and make a lasting impact in the industry.”Akshaara Lalwani, CEO of Communicate India, said: “Singer India is more than just a brand—it’s a legacy. To see an iconic name reinvent itself for the modern consumer is both exciting and inspiring. Our role is to ensure that this evolution is not just seen but deeply felt. By blending data-driven insights with storytelling that resonates, we aim to amplify Singer India’s new chapter while honouring its rich history. It’s not just about visibility; it’s about making a lasting impact in a market that values both heritage and innovation.” This partnership marks a significant milestone in Singer India’s branding and communication strategy, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, customer-centric solutions, and industry leadership.

Appointments 05-Mar-2025 Akshaara Lalwani Shalini Gupta Vachher Communicate India Singer India

Schneider appoints Vibha Thusu as IA eCommerce Program Leader for MarComm

As digital transformation accelerates in industrial automation, Vibha Thusu has stepped into a new role as Industrial Automation (IA) eCommerce Program Leader – Marketing & Communications at Schneider Electric.Thusu brings over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, brand management, and global marketing. A Schneider Electric veteran of 16 years, she previously led global marketing, communications, and e-commerce for an independent brand under the company’s umbrella. In her new role, she will also oversee internal communications for IA – Distribution & eCommerce, ensuring cohesive engagement across teams and stakeholders.Her career spans multiple regions, including MEA, SEA, Greater India, CEE, and CIS, with expertise in corporate communications, retail marketing, digital marketing, and e-commerce. She is recognized for her ability to implement omnichannel strategies, enhance customer experiences, and develop scalable marketing ecosystems.Thusu is also an active member of the CMO Council Network and a frequent speaker on diversity and inclusion, purpose-driven marketing, and digital engagement strategies.

Appointments 03-Mar-2025 Schneider Electric Vibha Thusu CMO Council Network Industrial Automation (IA) eCommerce Program Leader

Astrum appoints Nalini Neha to Lead Mumbai

Astrum, India’s first science-based specialist reputation management advisory, announces the appointment of seasoned communicator Nalini NEHA to lead the firm’s Mumbai office. Nalini is an experienced Public Relations practitioner with over a decade and a half of consulting experience across diverse sectors; Nalini brings a deep understanding of storytelling and a results-driven approach, making her a trusted advisor for clients seeking strategic reputation management. Nalini will work under the tutelage of Pragati Tiwari, who was recently promoted to the executive leadership as an ‘Equity Partner’ of the firm. She will benefit from the “double engine” leadership of Pragati and Sunil Lulla, Chairman of the firm to pursue the growth agenda. Says Ashwani Singla, Founding Managing Partner, Astrum. “We have steadily built a strong body of work in the city and now ready to scale the astrum experience that delivers sustainable reputation through research-driven multi-disciplinary strategic communications and stakeholder engagement,” He adds, “we will invest in a physical office in Mumbai very soon.” Says Sunil Lulla, Chairman, Astrum “Our success has been rooted in the trifecta of pioneering leadership, attracting the best minds and building lifelong client partnerships. Mumbai is the ‘maximum city’ and the financial capital of India with an unquestionable opportunity, and I am super excited to support the Executive leadership to bring the astrum experience to clients in Mumbai.” Says, Pragati Tiwari, Partner, “I am looking forward to working with Nalini to build on the body of work we have delivered over the last decade to our clients. At Astrum we are proud of the experience we deliver and uncompromising in our quest for quality and results, hence the time we have taken to get here. My team and I are now ready to scale without compromising on any element of our experience.”

Appointments 27-Feb-2025 Pragati Tiwari Sunil Lulla Ashwani Singla Astrum

Kynhood appoints Lavina Rodrigues as AVP – Brand Communications

KYN, (Know Your Neighbourhood), a leading neighbourhood discovery and connectivity app, by KYNHOOD technologies has appointed Lavina Rodrigues as the Assistant Vice President of Brand Communications, effective immediately. In the new role, Lavina Rodrigues will work closely with the leadership and founding members to define KYN’s go-to-market and communication strategy. With over 9 lakh downloads post its launch in February 2024, KYN is a bootstrapped startup that has witnessed rapid growth within a short period of one year. With ambitious growth and expansion plans, KYN is looking to scale new heights and expand its marketing efforts with Lavina playing a significant role in strengthening the brand’s narrative. Gayathri Thyagarajan, CEO and Founder of KYNHOOD TECHNOLOGIES extends her heartfelt congratulations to Lavina Rodrigues in driving the brand to even greater heights in her new leadership role.Lavina Rodrigues has more than 15 years of multi-dimensional experience in the field of B2B marketing, public relations, corporate communications and internal communications spanning diverse sectors like Tech, Media, Travel, Hospitality, entertainment and financial services. She has a proven track record in employer branding, leadership communications, building thought leadership. Lavina has held senior positions in Cleartrip, Collinson, Everymedia Technologies, PVR Limited and Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. Lavina Rodrigues is a distinguished alumna of Kingston University, London having completed her Master of Science in Marketing, after a graduation degree in commerce from University of Mumbai.

Appointments 20-Feb-2025 Kingston University Gayathri Thyagarajan Lavina Rodrigues KYNHOOD

Rosewood Abu Dhabi welcomes Aynur Mamedova as Director of Communications

Rosewood Abu Dhabi has appointed Aynur Mamedova as its new Director of Communications, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to excellence in luxury hospitality and impactful brand storytelling.In her new role, Mamedova will lead media relations, brand partnerships, and digital strategies, ensuring that Rosewood Abu Dhabi’s initiatives align seamlessly with the global vision of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. With over two decades of experience in marketing and communications, she brings a passion for hospitality that is deeply rooted in storytelling and creating meaningful connections.“Luxury hospitality goes beyond exceptional service—it’s about creating lasting impressions. At Rosewood Abu Dhabi, I am excited to craft authentic narratives, develop strategic campaigns, and enhance our guests’ journeys,” Mamedova shared on her appointment.Prior to joining Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Mamedova served as Director of Marketing at Waldorf Astoria Kuwait, where she played a key role in positioning the hotel as a market leader, driving innovative F&B concepts, forging strategic partnerships, and achieving record-breaking social media engagement. She has also led pre-opening and marketing strategies for Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait, Four Seasons Hotel Baku, and Waldorf Astoria Seychelles.Her appointment comes at a pivotal time as Rosewood Abu Dhabi continues to elevate its luxury offerings in the region. Mamedova believes in fostering a creative and collaborative work environment, where bold ideas are encouraged, and communication is transparent and strategic. She is committed to building strong relationships, embracing continuous learning, and taking calculated risks to drive innovation in luxury hospitality.

Appointments 20-Feb-2025 Four Seasons Hotel Baku Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Aynur Mamedova Rosewood

Arunima Singh joins Urja Communications as Chief Operating Officer

Arunima Singh has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Urja Communications Pvt. Ltd., effective immediately. With an illustrious career spanning over 23 years in marketing and 13 years in digital and social media, Singh brings extensive expertise in brand experience and communications.Her vast portfolio includes collaborations with leading brands such as Pidilite, Godrej Group, Essar, Parle, HCC, Magma Fincorp, Force Motors, Kotak Mahindra, HUL, Apollo Clinics, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Tata Housing, Intel, Piramal, Kellogg’s, HSBC, Colgate, Tata MD, Tata Mutual Fund, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Zydus, Viatris, Aegon Life Insurance, Google, and YouTube.

Appointments 19-Feb-2025 youtube Google Aegon Life Insurance Viatris Godrej Group Pidilite Urja Communications Pvt. Ltd Arunima Singh

Siemens taps Christiane Ribeiro as global Head of Communications

Siemens AG has appointed Christiane Ribeiro Guimarães Höfer (47) as the new global Head of Communications at Siemens AG. She will report to Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG, effective March 1. Ribeiro succeeds Lynette Jackson, who has held the role since October 2021 and has decided to leave the company to pursue a new opportunity. “I would like to thank Lynette for her strong contribution to Siemens, protecting and building our reputation and leading the function across the enterprise for the last three and a half years. I wish her personally and professionally all the best,” said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG.“We are very pleased to appoint Christiane Ribeiro as Siemens’ new global head of communications,” said Roland Busch. “Having been with Siemens for almost 25 years, she brings a deep understanding of our company, our culture, and our global footprint. Her leadership across multiple regions and her pivotal role in positioning Siemens as a leading technology company over the last years make her uniquely suited for this role. As we continue to transform and shape the industries of the future, her expertise and passion will be invaluable in strengthening our brand and engaging stakeholders around the world.”“Together with my colleagues, I look forward to supporting the continued growth of Siemens through high-impact communications. It is a privilege to tell the amazing stories of our customers and partners, our people, and the impact our technology has on the world. I am excited to do this with outstanding teams around the globe,” said Christiane Ribeiro. Christiane Ribeiro is currently Head of CEO communications, strategic messaging and thought leadership. She also leads communications for the newly launched "ONE Tech Company", a company program for accelerated growth. She joined Siemens Brazil in 2001 and has held roles including Head of Communications and Government Relations for Siemens Australia and New Zealand, Head of Innovation Communications and Communications Business Partner to Roland Busch as Chief Technology Officer and Deputy CEO.

Appointments 18-Feb-2025 Lynette Jackson Roland Busch Christiane Ribeiro Siemens AG

Edelman appoints Delicia Tan, Vorasit Turongsomboon to key SEA roles

Edelman has announced two new leadership appointments in Southeast Asia. Delicia Tan, currently CEO for Hong Kong and Taiwan, will expand her role to include CEO of Singapore. This appointment follows Julia Wei's departure from Edelman at the end of February 2025 to pursue a new opportunity. Tan, who joined Edelman in Singapore in 2006, brings extensive experience leading integrated teams and serving major clients across Asia Pacific.In Thailand, Vorasit (Gigg) Turongsomboon has been appointed Managing Director. With over 16 years of experience, including a decade at Procter & Gamble and most recently serving as Managing Director of MSL, Turongsomboon will lead Edelman's Thailand operations and growth.Rakesh Thukral, Edelman’s CEO for Asia Pacific, expressed confidence in Tan and Turongsomboon's leadership, stating that these appointments strengthen Edelman's ability to provide top-tier communications solutions across the region. He also thanked Wei for her contributions. Both appointments are effective immediately.

Appointments 18-Feb-2025 Procter & Gamble Vorasit Turongsomboon Rakesh Thukral Delicia Tan Edelman

Jessica J. Lee appointed Vice President, Strategy at Asia Group Advisors

Asia Group Advisors (AGA) has announced the appointment of Jessica J. Lee as Vice-President, Strategy. A seasoned regional business leader, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise in corporate communications, issues management, and strategic planning across Asia-Pacific and the United States."Asia’s fluid business operating environment means that companies will need to be creative and flexible in how they interact with governments and other stakeholders. It also means consistent and deep local market engagement will be required to capture the many opportunities that continue to emerge in this region," said Adam Schwarz, Founder & CEO of Asia Group Advisors. "Jessica's expertise will be invaluable as we continue to provide strategic, impact-focused advice to our clients."Jessica’s appointment underscores AGA’s commitment to driving strategic growth and innovation across its operations. Her extensive experience will play a pivotal role in shaping AGA’s future initiatives.Jessica has a distinguished career spanning the technology, healthcare, and philanthropy sectors. She has built high-performing, multi-country teams, fostered public-private partnerships, and executed impactful campaigns for multinational corporations. Her leadership has been instrumental in addressing complex geopolitical issues and advancing sustainability initiatives globally.Prior to joining AGA, Jessica served in regional leadership roles at APCO Worldwide, as Managing Director Southeast Asia, and WE Communications, as Vice President Regional Healthcare Lead, where she advised clients on market entry strategies for Korea and Australia and provided strategic counsel to C-suite executives on investment and risk management. She has also spearheaded award-winning communications campaigns for major healthcare brands, focusing on areas such as health economics and digital transformation. "I’m excited to join AGA and contribute to the firm's mission of helping clients navigate the complexities of the Asian market," said Jessica J. Lee. "I look forward to working with Adam and the talented team at AGA to deliver innovative solutions and create value for our clients."Earlier in her career, she contributed to the rollout of the Affordable Care Act in the United States as a healthcare consultant at Wilson Strategic. Additionally, she served as a Visiting Professor at the Korea Development Institute, training civil servants and advancing global development initiatives.Jessica holds a Master of Arts in Regional Studies-East Asia from Harvard University, where she received the Joseph M. Fletcher Memorial Award, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Irvine.

Appointments 14-Feb-2025 Asia Group Advisors Jessica J. Lee APCO Worldwide WE Communications Harvard University Bachelor of Arts

Zeno Group names David Lian Regional President, Asia Pacific

Zeno Group has named David Lian Regional President, Asia Pacific. A 10-year veteran of the agency, Lian will succeed Paul Mottram, who is stepping down from the role to pursue personal interests. Lian was most recently Managing Director for Growth and Innovation in APAC, where he pioneered Zeno’s data-driven strategic approach and played a leading role in the development of the firm’s adoption of AI technologies, in addition to anchoring several client relationships. Prior to that, David established and led Zeno Malaysia, where he grew the business to a team of 40+ people over a five-year period. Lian will continue to be based in Singapore and will report to Zeno global Chief Executive Officer, Barby K. Siegel. Mottram will remain with Zeno through January 2025 to ensure a smooth transition. “David has been a pillar of Zeno APAC for more than a decade, a capable and visionary leader and staunch champion of our culture, said Barby K. Siegel, global CEO. Together with the region’s talented team of leaders, I am confident in David’s ability to take Zeno forward – building and innovating in ways that will advance our now and next ambition.” “Meanwhile I would like to thank Paul Mottram for his many contributions over the past five years, helping to guide us through the challenges of the pandemic, providing valuable counsel to our clients, and playing a significant role in establishing Zeno China Consulting, our new venture in Mainland China,” she continued. Commenting on his promotion, David Lian said, “I’ve seen Zeno evolve significantly since our beginnings in Asia Pacific in 2012 to become one of the region’s most progressive communications firms. As I look ahead with my trusted leaders and colleagues, we will be focused on ensuring that we are well positioned to help our clients solve business challenges with modern communications and sharp business acumen while also preparing for what’s to come.” Mottram has led Zeno in Asia Pacific since early 2020. “I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to work with such talented global, regional, and local teams in my time with Zeno. The company has an ethos and approach that’s unique and perfectly suited to help clients in the region deliver tangible outcomes, across brand and corporate reputation. As David and his team continue to develop and grow the business, I’m going to be cheering loudly from the sidelines,” he said.

Appointments 12-Feb-2025 Paul Mottram Barby K. Siegel David Lian Zeno Group

FTI Consulting appoints Usman Javed as a Sr Director - Strategic Communications

FTI Consulting, Inc. has announced the appointment of Usman Javed as a Senior Director - Strategic Communications. In his role at FTI Consulting, Javed will support the growth of the firm’s capabilities in the Middle East, providing strategic and policy advisory services, with a particular emphasis on the financial services and energy sectors.Javed, who is based in Riyadh, brings a decade of experience as a British diplomat and economist to FTI Consulting. He has established strong relationships with key institutions and influential entities within the Kingdom. Javed previously served as First Secretary and Head of Economic Diplomacy at the British Embassy in Riyadh, where he led policy, trade and investment initiatives between the UK and Saudi Arabia. Whilst at the British Embassy, he also spearheaded the UK’s support of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda to deliver economic diversification, launching various initiatives across priority sectors including clean energy, financial services, technology and critical minerals. “Usman’s appointment is one of several recent investments that demonstrate FTI Consulting’s commitment to its business in the Kingdom,” said Oliver Williams, Head of FTI Consulting’s Strategic Communications segment in the Middle East.“As Vision 2030 enters its next phase, we’re committed to enhancing our presence here to help our clients implement its delivery. Usman brings a deep understanding of that agenda, as well as extensive relationships across government and industry. He is a key hire for us and we are delighted to welcome him to the firm.”The appointment of Javed underscores FTI Consulting’s continued commitment to strengthen its presence across the Gulf Cooperation Council, following the launch of its operations in Riyadh in 2022. The firm’s Middle East team supports clients in addressing an array of business-critical issues that contribute to the development of the region’s capital markets and business landscape. FTI Consulting has advised on several landmark IPOs, including Modern Mills’ record-breaking listing on the main market of the Saudi exchange.Commenting on his appointment, Javed said: “I am delighted to join FTI Consulting at a pivotal moment as it expands its presence in Saudi Arabia – undoubtedly one of the most transformative markets in the world. With the firm’s global platform, the opportunity to partner across different business segments, and its clear commitment to investing in the Kingdom, we are uniquely positioned to support our clients through the exciting developments under Vision 2030.”

Appointments 11-Feb-2025 FTI Consulting Usman Javed Oliver Williams Gulf Cooperation Council Modern Mills Vision 2030

Bank of America taps Bhaswati Chakravorty as SVP, Corp Comms

Bhaswati Chakravorty has been appointed as the Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications at Bank of America. She shared the news of her new role on LinkedIn.Prior to this, she served as Vice President, Corporate Communications at Global Business Services, Bank of America, where she led communications and industry engagement for the bank’s global capability center in India. She played a key role in strategizing, designing, and executing communication and outreach initiatives in collaboration with Global Technology and Global Operations teams.With a rich background in corporate communications, Bhaswati brings extensive experience in crafting impactful campaigns and managing communications for leading global organizations. Her career includes leadership roles at renowned firms such as Capgemini India, HCL Corporation & Shiv Nadar Foundation, Max Life Insurance, and Tata Consultancy Services.

Appointments 10-Feb-2025 Bhaswati Chakravorty Bank of America Capgemini India HCL Corporation & Shiv Nadar Foundation Max Life Insurance Tata Consultancy Services

Steelcase appoints Michelle Cockrill as APAC Brand Communications Director

Steelcase has appointed Michelle Cockrill as its new director of brand communications for Asia Pacific (APAC). In this role, she will lead brand strategy, storytelling, and communications across the region, reinforcing Steelcase’s commitment to creating high-performance workspaces that support people and organizations.Cockrill joins Steelcase from BNP Paribas, where she served as head of marketing and communications for Asia Pacific for seven years. With extensive experience in strategic brand growth, she specializes in developing narratives that align business goals with human-centered communication. Her background also includes roles at J.P. Morgan and United Technologies.The appointment comes as Steelcase continues its expansion in APAC. The company sees the region’s evolving business landscape and the increasing adoption of hybrid work models as both challenges and opportunities for workplace design. Research from Steelcase shows that 56% of meetings now include remote participants, emphasizing the need for smarter, more adaptable workspaces that enhance collaboration and productivity.Peter Lewchanin, president of Steelcase APAC, highlighted Cockrill’s expertise in marketing and brand communications as a key asset in strengthening the company’s connection with businesses and consumers. He believes her leadership will further elevate Steelcase’s position as a trusted partner in workplace innovation.Cockrill expressed enthusiasm for her new role, noting that workplaces are undergoing another transformation and that Steelcase is at the forefront of helping organizations navigate these changes. She is particularly excited to join a company that not only designs high-performance spaces but also prioritizes sustainability and human-centric design. She sees Steelcase’s commitment to research-driven insights and innovative solutions as a unique and valuable opportunity.Steelcase’s announcement follows a similar move by ASICS, which recently appointed Caroline Fisher as its global brand communications director. Fisher will focus on integrating ASICS’ founding philosophy into its brand communications.

Appointments 10-Feb-2025 APAC Michelle Cockrill Steelcase

Western Digital taps Hoffman for APAC PR

Western Digital, a leading data storage firm, has appointed The Hoffman Agency as its PR agency of record for the Asia-Pacific region, PRovoke Media reports. The partnership will cover key markets, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China, Australia, and Thailand.The Hoffman Agency will manage Western Digital’s PR and digital communications, reinforcing the company’s brand presence in the region.This announcement follows Western Digital’s ongoing plans to separate its HDD and Flash businesses into two independent, publicly traded companies. The company believes this strategic split will enhance innovation, optimize market-specific opportunities, strengthen leadership positions, and improve operational efficiency with distinct capital structures. The separation plan was first revealed in 2023.Meanwhile, The Hoffman Agency has been expanding its presence in Southeast Asia through strategic promotions and new hires.In Singapore, Vanessa Lee has been promoted to associate account director, digital, to drive integrated marketing communications (IMC) growth across the region, while Vivien Law will focus on key accounts and client service excellence. Both will report to Akansha Rai, deputy general manager.In Malaysia, Chee Kun Tan has joined as account director, working alongside Vicky Wong, general manager, to expand the firm’s presence in this rapidly growing technology market.Indonesia sees the promotions of Shinta Widianti to account director and Panji Pratama to associate account director, supporting Niko Radityo, deputy general manager.In Thailand, Prangthong Jitcharoenkul has stepped into the role of associate account director, while Jennine Aremanapong has joined as an account executive. Both will work with Clarence Lim, director of Southeast Asia, to drive business growth in the country.

Appointments 10-Feb-2025 Western Digital Hoffman Chee Kun Tan Shinta Widianti Panji Pratama Vicky Wong Prangthong Jitcharoenkul Jennine Aremanapong

Ace turtle appoints Rasul Bailay as Chief Communications Officer

Ace turtle, a technology-native retail company, has appointed seasoned business journalist Rasul Bailay as its Chief Communications Officer. In this role, Bailay will spearhead the company’s corporate communications strategy, manage public relations, and lead strategic initiatives aligned with ace turtle’s vision.With a distinguished career spanning over 26 years in business journalism, Bailay brings unparalleled expertise in covering India’s consumer economy and retail sector. He has held key positions at globally renowned publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Mint, The Economic Times, and Financial Express, where he extensively reported on industries including retail, technology, telecom, and politics. Notably, he was the Founding Editor of ETRetail.com and, in his most recent role, served as the Group Managing Editor of Images Group, overseeing a ten-member editorial team producing high-impact print and digital content.Nitin Chhabra, CEO of ace turtle, welcomed Bailay’s appointment, stating: “Rasul’s deep understanding of the Indian retail landscape and his ability to craft compelling narratives will be crucial in strengthening ace turtle’s corporate communications strategy. As we continue to drive transformation in retail through our technology-led solutions, his expertise will enhance our engagement with key stakeholders and amplify our brand story.”Expressing his enthusiasm, Bailay said: “I am excited to join ace turtle at a time when the company is revolutionizing the retail sector with cutting-edge technology and industry-leading solutions. Having observed the industry’s evolution closely, I look forward to working with ace turtle’s leadership team to further its vision and communicate its story effectively.”Since 2023, ace turtle has been expanding its leadership team to support rapid and sustainable growth. The company holds exclusive licensing rights for global brands such as Lee, Wrangler, Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us, and Dockers in India and other South Asian markets, reinforcing its position as a leader in the retail sector.

Appointments 10-Feb-2025 Dockers Babies“R”Us Toys“R”Us Wrangler Lee Nitin Chhabra Rasul Bailay Ace turtle

Agency veteran Brad MacAfee joins KAOH Media as CEO

KAOH Media has welcomed new CEO Brad MacAfee, as the renewable energy communications firm continues to expand with portfolio clients in project host communities across the nation and beyond."Founded by Kelly O'Neil and myself in 2014 and recently marking its first decade of bringing "good energy" to the world, KAOH Media has now reached an expansion point where bringing additional seasoned executive agency leadership to the team is a logical step to help us move to the next level," says KAOH Co-Founder and current CEO Allan Hug, "In Brad we have found the ideal mix of deep experience, wisdom and clear vision that can help guide us to new opportunities as we continue to serve our utility-scale renewable energy clientele in local host communities and support all aspects of the clean energy transition.""... it is rare to find leaders like Allan and Kelly, who care so deeply about their team and clients that they are willing to take on new roles that align with their expertise and passions while also having the courage to bring in an outside leader" ~ Brad MacAfeeMacAfee's background in leadership and mission-focused corporate culture includes a nearly 20-year stint at Porter Novelli, where he spent his last four years as CEO and Sr. Partner. He helped transform the agency from a generalist agency to one focused on purpose and social impact consulting. More recently, he founded Mission + Cause, a consultancy and executive search firm aimed at assisting public relations agencies and in-house communications departments in aligning workplace culture for purpose-driven and results-oriented expansion."When I was initially introduced to KAOH Media, I was immediately struck by the strong leadership, innovation and rapid growth that the agency has achieved in the renewable energy industry," says MacAfee, "Upon further exploration, I became even more intrigued and excited by the level of creativity and dedication of the KAOH team, and their singular expertise in the space. KAOH Media is driving societal impact at the local and community level. What's impressive is the agency has figured out how to get hyper-local at scale."Employee owned and operated, KAOH offers disciplined project managers and experienced storytellers with a passion for clean energy technology, positive community engagement and impactful messaging. The multi-talented remote team hails from every corner of the country and comes from a variety of backgrounds: politics, digital marketing, journalism, media, events, technology, environmental law, design, lobbying, and energy development.With Brad's appointment to CEO, KAOH Media's founders, Allan Hug and Kelly O'Neil will be taking on new roles in the organization. Allan Hug, former CEO, will shift to the role of Chief Growth & Innovation Officer where he will be responsible for driving agency growth and expansion as well as its focus on development of new technologies, products and services to elevate KAOH clients in the market. Kelly O'Neil, currently President, will now become President & Chief Client Officer. In her role, Kelly will be responsible for ensuring that KAOH is bringing the best people, approach and service principles to the agency's growing list of clients. Both Allan and Kelly will continue their roles and responsibilities serving on the agency's Board of Directors."I have worked with a lot of communications agency founders during the last several years, and it is rare to find leaders like Allan and Kelly, who care so deeply about their team and clients that they are willing to take on new roles that align with their expertise and passions while also having the courage to bring in an outside leader," said Brad. "Even better, both founders want to stay and continue to grow the agency's impact in energy and other areas of social impact. Having the opportunity to collaborate with these founders and the team they have assembled and grown is inspiring.""KAOH Media's singular dedication to the learning the renewable energy space over the past decade has sharply honed the agency's ability to quickly and effectively assess local community growth opportunities, and help lead and support development teams in project areas through every phase from leasing through construction", says KAOH Co-Founder and President Kelly O'Neil, "We look forward to benefiting from Brad's expertise in agency management to help us assess how to best navigate the next chapter of growth for KAOH Media."

Appointments 10-Feb-2025 Allan Hug Porter Novelli Brad MacAfee Kelly O\'Neil KAOH Media

Sushmita Bandopadhyay joins Apollo Hospitals as VP - Corporate Communications

Apollo Hospitals, the Indian multinational healthcare group, has appointed Sushmita Bandopadhyay as Vice President - Corporate Communications. Announcing her new role, she shared, “A testimony of faith! Back to my love for healthcare. Back in the corporate communications role. Settling in a new city and a new playground. Salute to one month in my new role at Apollo Hospitals.”With over 23 years of experience, Sushmita has expertise in integrated communication campaigns, crisis strategies, employer branding, internal communications, CSR, advocacy, and brand storytelling. Before joining Apollo Hospitals, she served as Executive Vice President at Weber Shandwick for three years. Her career also includes key roles at Good Relations, Perfect Relations, BD India, and more.

Appointments 06-Feb-2025 BD India Weber Shandwick Sushmita Bandopadhyay Apollo Hospitals

Havas Thailand strengthens leadership with strategic appointments

Havas Thailand has strengthened its leadership team through key appointments, reinforcing its commitment to delivering integrated and innovative solutions in the Thai market. Carlo Herold has been appointed as Managing Director, where he will oversee media operations and spearhead strategic initiatives aimed at driving client engagement and elevating market presence. With a proven track record in performance marketing and digital innovation, Carlo’s expertise will play a pivotal role in strengthening Havas Thailand’s media offerings. Joining alongside Carlo is Siamrit Wongvichitara, who takes on the role of Chief Growth and Commercial Officer, Havas Thailand. Siamrit will focus on driving business development, expanding client partnerships, and enhancing the agency’s commercial capabilities. His extensive understanding of the Thai market and experience in crafting impactful growth strategies will further bolster the agency’s leadership. Both Carlo and Siamrit will report to Aga Giedroyc, CEO of Havas Thailand. Rana Barua, Group CEO, India, SEA & North Asia shared, “Thailand is a key growth market for Havas, and strengthening our leadership here is a top priority. Carlo and Siamrit bring a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of the local market, which will be invaluable in driving our strategic goals. As the Thai market continues to evolve with new opportunities and challenges, Carlo and Siamrit will play a pivotal role along with Aga, in navigating these shifts and accelerating our growth in the region. Their leadership will be instrumental in reinforcing Havas Thailand’s position as a forward-thinking, innovative partner to our clients.” Speaking about the leadership appointments, Aga Giedroyc, CEO Havas Thailand shared, “These appointments mark a significant step in strengthening our capabilities and aligning with the evolving needs of the Thai market. With Thailand ranking among the top globally for mobile first behavior and social commerce, it is crucial to strengthen our digital capabilities to stay ahead of evolving consumer trends. By helping our clients navigate this dynamic landscape, we aim to achieve sustainable growth while building meaningful brands that deeply resonate with audiences. Together, we will continue to innovate and deliver impactful solutions that resonate across the market." Carlo and Siamrit shared, “We are both excited to take on these roles and work together to lead Havas Thailand through its next phase of growth. We look forward to collaborating with Aga and the entire team to drive impactful strategies that not only elevate our market presence but also create lasting value for our clients. Together, we are committed to strengthening Havas Thailand’s position as a forward-thinking, solutions-driven partner in this dynamic and evolving market.”

Appointments 06-Feb-2025 Carlo Herold Siamrit Wongvichitara Aga Giedroyc Rana Barua Havas Thailand

Amit Gujral joins Aarambh Communications as an advisor

Amit Gujral, former Chief Marketing Officer at JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. and LG Electronics India Ltd., has joined Aarambh Communications as an Advisory Board member. With nearly three decades of experience in branding, advertising, and product marketing, Gujral will provide strategic guidance to the firm as it expands its services.At Aarambh Communications, Gujral will work closely with founders Sukriti Vajpayee and Himanshu Upadhyay. The firm specializes in PR and marketing for sectors including fintech, healthcare, lifestyle, NBFCs, martech, real estate, and edtech.During his tenure at JK Tyre, Gujral led campaigns such as "JK Tyre Desh Ka Tyre – Jab Hindustan Mile Hindustan Se." His time at LG Electronics included several branding initiatives that strengthened the company’s market position.Commenting on his new role, Gujral said, “Marketing and branding have always been my passion. I look forward to mentoring businesses and contributing to Aarambh Communications’ efforts in building strong brand narratives.”Sukriti Vajpayee, Founder of Aarambh Communications, stated, “Amit’s expertise in marketing aligns with our goal of helping brands achieve long-term success. His insights will add significant value to our strategic direction.”Co-founder Himanshu Upadhyay added, “Amit’s understanding of consumer behavior and multi-channel marketing will help us integrate innovative marketing and PR strategies for our clients.”Aarambh Communications provides PR and marketing solutions focused on brand visibility, media relations, digital marketing, and thought leadership. The firm works with brands to enhance reputation, engage consumers, and drive business growth.

Appointments 05-Feb-2025 Himanshu Upadhyay Sukriti Vajpayee Aarambh Communications Amit Gujral

HSBC appoints Farah Farooq as Head of Communications for MENAT

HSBC has appointed Farah Farooq as Head of Communications for Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye (MENAT) region, effective 1 February 2025.In this role, Farah will lead the development and implementation of HSBC’s communications strategy across the MENAT region, leveraging the bank’s long-established history and presence in the region and the role it continues to play in supporting the world’s most ambitious economic transformation agendas undergoing in the Middle East.Farah will help to position the MENAT region as a crucial driver of the bank’s internationalism, highlighting the region’s significance as a strategic economic, trading, and wealth hub bridging East and West.Based in Dubai, Farah will report functionally to Jessica Lee, HSBC’s Interim Group Head of Communications, Businesses & Markets at HSBC, and to Selim Kervanc, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC MENAT, on an entity basis.Farah brings more than 20 years’ experience across financial services. She is a seasoned leader with experience in building and enabling high performing teams. Farah has been with HSBC for 14 years, overseeing communications for business lines and markets across the Middle East and European regions. Most recently as Head of Communications for the UAE, Farah has helped shape and share the bank’s growth story.Prior to joining HSBC, Farah set up the financial communications practice for Weber Shandwick in the Middle East, leading a strong team servicing key government, financial services, multilateral banks, and investment agency clients.

Appointments 31-Jan-2025 HSBC Farah Farooq Selim Kervanc Weber Shandwick

FleishmanHillard appoints Madhulika Ojha as Managing Director for India

FleishmanHillard today announced the appointment of Madhulika Ojha as managing director of its India operations. Based in Mumbai, Ojha will oversee the strategy, operations and growth of the agency’s India offices. She will report to Joanne Wong, Asia Pacific president and senior partner at FleishmanHillard.Ojha brings nearly 20 years of strategy consulting experience, with deep expertise in designing and implementing large-scale transformation programs to help businesses grow market share, increase shareholder value and enhance operational efficiency through technology enablement. Most recently, she served as an Executive Director in the Strategy and Transactions advisory team at EY in India, where she advised C-level leaders across industries.Wong said: “At FleishmanHillard, we focus on the role communications play in driving business outcomes and influencing C-suite priorities and Board discussions. Madhulika’s expertise in post-merger integration, deals and transactions and the financial communications ecosystem offers us growing opportunities to strengthen our position as a trusted advisor. As India’s business and financial landscape evolves rapidly, her leadership will enable us to better support clients in navigating this dynamic environment. We are thrilled to have her join us and lead the next phase of growth and transformation for our India operations.” Ojha’s career spans leading global business advisory and technology consulting firms, including EY, Capgemini, Deloitte, TCS and Tech Mahindra. She has advised Fortune 500 corporations across sectors such as financial services, consumer, automotive, life sciences and more, with market exposure spanning Asia, Europe and the Americas.“The FleishmanHillard team in India has built an impressive foundation, and I'm excited to build upon their success,” Ojha said. “The agency's commitment to delivering business-informed, technology-powered communications that drive tangible business outcomes aligns perfectly with my passion and professional experience. I look forward to contributing and collaborating with the team to help clients protect, transform and grow their businesses through strategic communications.”Wong added: “Our focus for India and the broader APAC region in 2025 is to further solidify our unique position as a business-critical advisor, offering both high-level strategic counsel and robust implementation for clients. With management consulting leaders like Madhulika bringing greater strategic depth, combined with our trusted brand, leading global networks and comprehensive offerings, we are confident in achieving this priority.” Since 2007, FleishmanHillard India has continued to deliver award-winning campaigns for both global and local clients across sectors such as fast-moving consumer goods, healthcare, technology, financial services, automobile and hospitality. The team has earned numerous accolades, including being recognized as the Public Relations Team of the Year at the 2024 Acer Faster Awards. It has also won Best Consumer Relation Campaign at the 2022 Public Relations Council of India Awards; Best Use of Digital and Print Media at the 2021 Asia Pacific IN2SABRE Awards; and both the Technology: Hardware and Financial & Professional Services categories at the 2020 Asia Pacific SABRE Awards.

Appointments 27-Jan-2025 tech mahindra Joanne Wong Madhulika Ojha FleishmanHillard

Harshita Nair joins Technicolor Group as Director - Marketing and Communications

In this role she will lead the company's marketing, external & internal communications and CSR efforts in India, with a dual focus on brand building and talent attraction. Harshita is a communications professional with over 21 years of experience in designing and orchestrating high-impact projects and initiatives in Communications, Employee Engagement and Talent Enablement. Her previous roles have mostly been with leading companies in the Technology industry, in both product and services companies like Capgemini, Wipro Technologies, Subex, Quintiles (now iQvia) among others. Harshita has held a good mix of India-centric and global leadership roles throughout her career. She is a double graduate, B.Com and PGDBM, and a Master of Science (MS) in Communications, which she completed at Manipal Institute of Communications.

Appointments 24-Jan-2025 Harshita Manipal Institute of Communications Wipro Technologies Master of Science

Dave Whiting joins Weber Shandwick as General Manager of Boston Office

Dave Whiting has joined Weber Shandwick as GM of the Boston office.Whiting will start the role on Feb. 3, a Weber Shandwick spokesperson said. Whiting was hired to oversee Weber Shandwick’s 80-person Boston office, leading clients,?business growth and driving innovation?for?the Boston market, it said in a statement.?He will have a?broader?leadership?role?in the agency’s?corporate affairs and advisory?business in North America as well. “I’m thrilled to lead the largest and most-awarded firm in Boston and the New England region,” Whiting said. “Weber Shandwick’s unmatched creativity, strategy and impact — combined with its modern corporate affairs expertise and advisory capabilities — make it a true powerhouse. Together with our Boston leadership team, we’re ready to drive innovation, deliver measurable results, and elevate the firm’s legacy as an industry leader.” Whiting succeeded Pam Jenkins, chief public health officer and chief public affairs officer, who was also acting as interim Boston GM, the spokesperson explained.Previously, Whiting was global chief operating officer with Edelman. He led the firm’s business-to-business operations across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa in his prior role. He joined Edelman in December 2012. Recent appointments at Weber Shandwick include the promotion of Paul Massey to South region president in December; and Marianna Ruiz’s appointment as chief creative officer of creative growth for North America in August. Additionally, Jeff Immel, a 14-year Weber Shandwick veteran, was named as Weber Shandwick chief creative officer for Chicago. The Weber Shandwick Collective also promoted O’Leary and Karen Pugliese to global president roles and named Joy Farber Kolo chief impact officer in December as the agency formalized its leadership under new CEO Susan Howe. Howe became CEO, succeeding Gail Heimann, in November.

Appointments 23-Jan-2025 Susan Howe Paul Massey Joy Farber Kolo Pam Jenkins The Weber Shandwick Collective Dave Whiting

FleishmanHillard taps Atiwat Krisintu as General Manager of Bangkok

FleishmanHillard has appointed Atiwat Krisintu as the new General Manager of its Bangkok office. In this role, Krisintu will lead the agency's expansion efforts in Thailand, enhancing its market position and delivering impactful communications solutions for clients. He will report to Joanne Wong, President of Asia Pacific and Senior Partner at FleishmanHillard.Krisintu brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as Director of Strategy & Business Design at Deloitte Consulting in Bangkok. With nearly 30 years of experience in corporate strategy and management consulting, he possesses a deep understanding of complex business challenges and the ability to develop high-level strategies for both global and Thai organizations.“As a seasoned leader with a proven ability to solve complex business challenges and inform high-level strategies for both global and Thai organizations, Atiwat brings invaluable expertise to our team. Building on the solid foundation and stellar reputation that our team in Thailand has established, we are confident that Atiwat will help us further enhance our capabilities, engage deeper with the C-suite and elevate our position as a business-critical advisor. We are thrilled to welcome him to our team,” said Joanne Wong. Krisintu succeeds Sophis Kasemsahasin, who is retiring after a successful 11-year tenure at FleishmanHillard. Kasemsahasin established the Bangkok office in 2013 and grew it into a leading communications agency in Thailand.Prior to his role at Deloitte Consulting, Krisintu held key leadership positions at prominent organizations, including SIAM MAKRO Group, Central Marketing Group, and the Coca-Cola Company. He earned his bachelor's degree in economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.“It is truly tremendous to step into the role of general manager for a team as talented, motivated, and collaborative as the one that Kasemsahasin has built. I am excited to work alongside this incredible group and add value for both our clients and teams. By drawing on my experience, I am committed to strengthening our strategic advisory services, expanding our reach through the wider global FleishmanHillard and Omnicom networks and delivering impactful solutions that meet the market's evolving needs. Together, we will build on the success of the Bangkok office and take it to even greater heights,” said Krisintu.

Appointments 22-Jan-2025 Sophis Kasemsahasin Joanne Wong Atiwat Krisintu FleishmanHillard

W Communications appoints Robin Chang as APAC General Manager

W Communications, a leading independent communications agency, has appointed Robin Chang as General Manager for its Asia-Pacific operations. In this role, Chang will report to Warren Johnson, Founder and CEO of W Communications.“Chang is an exceptional talent. We are thrilled to have secured his leadership. This marks an exciting new chapter for our business in Asia. Robin brings a unique blend of results-oriented collaboration with unparalleled expertise in the seamless integration of communications services,” said Johnson. Chang brings 17 years of experience in public relations and integrated communications across the consumer, lifestyle, and corporate sectors. He has held senior leadership roles in Singapore while successfully managing campaigns throughout Asia. His strategic vision and leadership were instrumental in driving growth at previous agencies, including PRecious Communications and Allison Worldwide.In his new role, Chang will collaborate closely with W Communications Chairman Tim Sutton, former head of Weber Shandwick's Asia-Pacific network, and leadership teams across the agency's global offices.This appointment follows a period of significant growth for W Communications in Asia. The agency has expanded its corporate and consumer teams with top talent in integrated communications and social media. Recent client wins include LHN Group, Affinidi, Global TechSolutions, VP Bank, Deliveroo, Hilton Group, PS.Gourmet, Suntec City, and Tinder APAC.This news comes shortly after W Communications named Matt Brown as its new Managing Director. Brown joins W from Edelman, where he served as Vice Chair of Brand for EMEA.

Appointments 22-Jan-2025 W Communications Robin Chang Tim Sutton Matt Brown Warren Johnson Edelman

Brendan Carr named FCC Chairman by Trump

US President Donald J. Trump has signed an order designating Commissioner Brendan Carr as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).Chairman Carr released the following statement in response to his appointment: "I am deeply grateful to President Trump and honored by his decision to designate me as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Having served at the FCC for over a dozen years, including my tenure as General Counsel, I am humbled by the opportunity to lead the agency.The FCC has critical work ahead, addressing issues from tech and media regulation to fostering economic growth and job creation through initiatives on spectrum, infrastructure, and the burgeoning space economy. We will also continue to prioritize advancing America’s national security interests and protecting consumers.I look forward to accelerating the FCC’s efforts on these fronts and collaborating with the Trump Administration, my colleagues on the Commission, the talented FCC staff, and Congress to deliver meaningful results for the American people.”

Appointments 21-Jan-2025 Trump Administration Federal Communications Commission Brendan Carr Donald J. Trump

Eularie Saldanha joins Publicis Groupe India as Corp Comm Director

Eularie Saldanha has been appointed as Director – Corporate Communications at Publicis Groupe India, bringing extensive expertise in corporate communications and media. Prior to this role, she was Senior Manager – Corporate Communications at FCB Kinnect, where she played a key role in shaping communication strategies.Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Eularie reflected on her professional journey, which spans prominent organizations such as The Advertising Standards Council of India and leading media firms.Her multifaceted experience includes Journalism, Feature Writing, News Anchoring, Content Strategy, and Video Production. A postgraduate in Journalism, Broadcast, and Print Media from St Pauls Institute of Communication Education, Eularie’s strong academic foundation further underscores her credentials in the communications field.

Appointments 18-Jan-2025 Eularie Saldanha Publicis Groupe St Pauls Institute of Communication Education The Advertising Standards Council of India

Amisha Sethi joins FPSB India as Sr VP - policy and communication

The Financial Planning Standards Board of India (FPSB India), the Indian subsidiary of FPSB Ltd., the global standards-setting body for the financial planning profession and owner of the international CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER (CFP) certification program, has appointed Amisha Sethi as its Senior Vice President- Policy and Communication, effective 3rd January 2025. Amisha is a seasoned global marketing leader with over 22 years of experience, Amisha brings a wealth of expertise in brand building, marketing, partner and customer relations, and strategic communication to FPSB India. Amisha’s illustrious career spans multiple industries, including telecom, mobile, technology, aviation, and AI, where she has held pivotal leadership roles. On welcoming Amisha Sethi to FPSB India, Krishan Mishra, CEO, FPSB India, stated: "We are delighted to have Amisha join our team. Her diverse background, visionary approach, and proven expertise in strategic communication will undoubtedly drive impactful initiatives for FPSB India. I am confident that her leadership will enhance our engagement with key stakeholders and further amplify our mission of advancing financial planning education in India."Before joining FPSB India, she was the Vice President of Global Marketing and Customer Relations at Infilect Inc., one of the leaders in image recognition AI. Her previous roles include Vice President of Global Marketing at Locus, Director of Asia-Pacific Brand Marketing at BlackBerry® Smartphones, Chief Commercial Officer at AirAsia, Marketing Manager at Airtel, and Vice President of Marketing at Frrole Inc., an AI and deep learning start-up. On her appointment, Amisha Sethi stated, “I am honored to join FPSB India and contribute to shaping the financial planning landscape in India. This is an exciting opportunity to blend my expertise in communication, advocacy, and strategy with FPSB India’s mission to elevate financial literacy and professional standards.” Beyond her professional accomplishments, Amisha is a multifaceted individual, blending her passion for acting, writing, and fitness with remarkable achievements. Amisha is the winner of Mrs. India Worldwide 2021 and is an award-winning actress who has won several words including 14th Dada Saheb Phalke Special Jury Mention Best Actress 2024, Great Message International Best Actress of the Year 2024 and Global India International Best Actress Award 2024 for her performance in the film Mehar, she also starred as the lead actor in an OTT Release short film Dronacharya, and was highly appreciated for her performance.Amisha is also the author of the bestseller 'It Doesn’t Hurt To Be Nice’. Additionally, she has been a TEDx speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide to live a multidimensional and balanced life. An executive scholar in Marketing and Sales Management from the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University, Amisha also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Amity Business School and a science degree from Delhi University.

Appointments 17-Jan-2025 Frrole Inc. BlackBerry® Smartphones Infilect Inc The Financial Planning Standards Board of India Krishan Mishra Amisha Sethi

Momita joins Aliaxis Group's Ashirvad as Corp Comms Head

Momita Das has been appointed as the Head of Corporate Communications at Ashirvad, an Aliaxis group company. Before this role, Das served as Senior Manager - Corporate Communications at Titan Company Ltd. for 12 years. A seasoned communications professional with over 16 years of experience, she has worked with leading organizations such as Titan Company Ltd. and TNT India.

Appointments 16-Jan-2025 TNT India Titan Company Ltd. Aliaxis Ashirvad Momita Das

Omnicom Public Relations Group names Mei Lee as Senior VP and MD in Singapore

Omnicom Public Relations Group (OPRG) has appointed Mei Lee as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of its Singapore operations. In this role, Lee will be responsible for overseeing the agency's business growth and client relationships in the dynamic Singapore market.Lee brings a wealth of experience across various sectors, including technology, media, and consumer goods, to her new role. Prior to joining OPRG, she served as a Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Singapore, where she advised clients on strategic growth initiatives, digital transformation, and operational efficiency.Before her tenure at BCG, Lee held the position of Senior Vice President, Strategic Marketing at Lazada, a leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia. In this role, she played a key role in driving the company's marketing strategy and expanding its market share across the region.Earlier in her career, Lee held senior leadership positions at renowned organizations such as Conde Nast, J.Crew, Omnicom Media Group, and The Walt Disney Company in the United States.Joanne Wong, Asia Pacific President and Senior Partner at FleishmanHillard, which manages OPRG's Singapore operations, welcomed Lee. She will report to Joanne Wong and will be based in Singapore.

Appointments 15-Jan-2025 Condé Nast FleishmanHillard Joanne Wong Boston Consulting Group Mei Lee Omnicom Public Relations Group

Deepika Abrol joins ISGEC Heavy Engineering as Head, Corporate Communications

Deepika Abrol has joined ISGEC Heavy Engineering as Associate Vice President, Head of Corporate Communication. In this key leadership role, Deepika will spearhead the development and execution of integrated communication strategies across all channels, including internal, external, and social media, to enhance ISGEC's brand reputation and drive business growth.A seasoned communications professional with over 25 years of experience, Deepika brings a wealth of expertise from leading organizations such as GHCL Limited, GMR Group, Tata Teleservices, and Jindal Steel & Power Limited. At GHCL, she successfully led strategic communication initiatives, including social media and CSR campaigns, that significantly contributed to the company's business objectives.Throughout her career, Deepika has consistently demonstrated a strong ability to build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders. This includes the media, investors, employees, and the wider community. She has also developed and executed compelling communication narratives that resonate with target audiences and effectively convey the brand story. She has effectively leveraged digital platforms to enhance brand visibility, engage stakeholders, and drive positive online conversations.Deepika holds a Master’s degree in English from Delhi University. Her strategic thinking, combined with her passion for impactful communication, will be invaluable as ISGEC continues its journey of sustainable growth and innovation.

Appointments 14-Jan-2025 Jindal Steel & Power Limited Tata Teleservices GMR group GHCL Limited ISGEC Heavy Engineering Deepika Abrol

Traveloka appoints Rachel Lim-Nathan as VP of Corporate Communications

Traveloka, a Southeast Asia-focused online travel agency, has appointed Rachel Lim-Nathan as its new Vice President of Corporate Communications. Lim-Nathan brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Director of Internal Communications for Emerging Markets at adidas, where she also held the position of Director of Corporate Communications for APAC.Prior to joining adidas in 2021, Lim-Nathan was Director of Corporate Affairs at Levi Strauss & Co., overseeing Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. In this role, she supported executive and internal communications while collaborating with global and regional teams on government affairs, social responsibility, and community outreach.Lim-Nathan's diverse industry experience also includes roles at Dyson, the British High Commission in Singapore, and Republic Polytechnic.On her LinkedIn profile, Lim-Nathan describes herself as a passionate advocate for sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. She emphasizes her commitment to telling the stories of the people she works with.

Appointments 13-Jan-2025 Traveloka Rachel Lim-Nathan Levi Strauss & Co Dyson British High Commission Republic Polytechnic

Current Global MENAT appoints Luanne D’Souza to lead high-profile campaigns

Current Global MENAT, part of the Middle East Communications Network (MCN), has appointed Luanne D’Souza as its new Account Director, marking a pivotal step in the agency’s expansion journey.Bringing over a decade of experience, Luanne has a proven track record of delivering award-winning, social-first campaigns for high-profile brands such as Rolls-Royce, Amazon Prime Video, Al-Futtaim Automotive, and Marriott Bonvoy. At Current Global MENAT, she will oversee a diverse portfolio that includes New Balance, Dubai Holding Entertainment, and Heinz. Her previous roles span respected organizations like Sticky Ginger, Art Dubai, and Sweetwater MEA.Peter Jacob, Managing Director of Current Global MENAT, expressed his enthusiasm for the hire: "We launched Current Global MENAT to redefine what a future-focused, earned-first agency looks like in our region. Luanne’s expertise in social and influencer strategies aligns perfectly with our vision of creating human-first connections. Her energy and fresh perspective will be invaluable as we continue to deliver for our clients and expand our offerings."Reflecting on her appointment, Luanne D’Souza said: "Joining Current Global MENAT is an exciting step in my career. The team’s earned-first approach, innovative mindset, and impressive roster of clients set them apart. I’m eager to contribute to their award-winning legacy and help shape 2025 as a defining year for the agency."Since its launch just three years ago, Current Global MENAT has established itself as a powerhouse in the region, blending the strategic capabilities of a global agency with the agility of a boutique firm. The agency’s accolades include PRCA MENA and PRCA Platinum Small Agency of the Year 2024, 14 wins at the MEPRA Awards, and certifications such as Great Place to Work and Best Mental Health Support in PR at the mentl Awards.With Luanne’s addition, Current Global MENAT continues its mission to elevate the role of social, influencer, and earned media strategies in driving impactful, conversation-led campaigns across the Middle East and North Africa.

Appointments 11-Jan-2025 Marriott Bonvoy Peter Jacob Luanne D’Souza Current Global MENAT

Ramkumar Uppara joins Crisil as Director - PR and Communications

In this role, Ramkumar will lead the company’s external and internal communications strategy in India & globally (especially in markets such as the US and the UK).Ramkumar has more than twenty years of experience in public relations and corporate communications. He has demonstrated success in crisis management, media relations, strategic leadership, and stakeholder engagement. His career highlights include a transformative tenure as Senior Vice President at Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, where he played a key role in elevating the brand into one of India’s leading mass-market banks among SFBs.Ramkumar has also held leadership positions at Ketchum Sampark (Omnicom Group) and a Senior Managerial position at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, driving impactful communication strategies and business growth. He holds public relations and advertising degrees and an MMM in marketing from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies.

Appointments 10-Jan-2025 Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies Omnicom Group Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ketchum Sampark Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Ramkumar

Sunaina Jairath Joins RPG Group as Vice President - Group Brand & Communications

RPG Group, one of India’s leading and most diversified conglomerates, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sunaina Jairath as Vice President - Group Brand & Communications.Reflecting on the journey to this new role, Sunaina shares, "2024 was a year of big emotions, adrenaline highs, and disruptions. It was a time of farewells and new beginnings, filled with both challenges and opportunities. Now, 2025 brings with it a fresh chapter – a new city, a new role, and a promise to bloom where I’m planted. I couldn’t think of a better place to embody this than at RPG Group, where happiness is not just a tagline but a core organizational value."As the custodian of Group Brand & Communications, Sunaina aims to champion authenticity, accountability, and audacity, aligning with RPG’s vision of fostering a culture of happiness, sustainability, and innovation. In this leadership role, Sunaina will oversee the group’s brand strategy and communications, enhancing RPG’s narrative across its diverse portfolio of businesses, including CEAT, KEC International, Zensar Technologies, and RPG Life Sciences.

Appointments 10-Jan-2025 RPG Group Sunaina Jairath

SW Strategies strengthens Vietnamese presence with first regional hire

SW Strategies, a public relations and strategic communications firm with client interests in Southeast Asia, has announced the appointment of Anh Thu Lai as its first full-time public relations hire in Vietnam. Based out of Ho Chi Minh City, Anh began her role on 2 January 2025.Anh’s role will support SW Strategies’ outreach demands in the Vietnamese market for clients while expanding the company’s services to clients across the region and her appointment will help meet SW Strategies’ client demands in Vietnam, contributing to the company’s goals of delivering impactful communications advisory and support throughout the ASEAN region.Anh began her career in communications with a focus on public relations, content development, and media relations. She has a proven track record in creating and executing PR strategies, organising events, and managing social media platforms.Her expertise includes content creation, campaign optimisation and a knowledge of the Vietnamese media landscape. She holds a degree in Media & Communications from Victoria University of Wellington.“I am excited to be able to join a team of experts based within Southeast Asia. Working beyond borders for our clients with my team-mates who are all in major markets within the region is truly significant as I develop my skills as a PR practitioner,” said Anh.Over the last 12 months, SW Strategies has significantly expanded its presence throughout Southeast Asia, with full-time colleagues now based in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok and now in Ho Chi Minh City.The firm is servicing clients in multiple sectors which include tech, property, hospitality, esports, non-profits among others.“There has been a spike in demand for media outreach and public relations support within Southeast Asia,” said SW Strategies Managing Director Jose Raymond.“Anh Thu Lai’s addition to our team further emphasises our commitment to delivering exceptional PR and strategic communications services while solidifying our presence in the regional market.”

Appointments 10-Jan-2025 Ho Chi Minh City Anh Thu Lai SW Strategies ASEAN

Maddock Films taps Sonia Huria as Head of Brand, Consumer & Social Comms

Sonia Huria, formerly Head of Communications - APAC at Amazon Prime Video, has taken on a new role at Maddock Films as the Head of Brand, Consumer & Social Communications. She announced the move on her LinkedIn account, marking a significant transition in her illustrious career.Huria joined Amazon Prime Video in 2020 as part of the global communications team, leading PR and communications for the OTT platform in India. In October 2023, she was promoted to the role of Head of Communications - APAC, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s narrative across the Asia-Pacific region.With over two decades of experience in entertainment and consumer industries, Huria's career trajectory has been remarkable. Before joining Amazon, she held a key leadership position at Viacom18, where she oversaw brand and corporate communications across the company’s five verticals: broadcast entertainment, filmed entertainment, digital entertainment, experiential entertainment, and consumer products.Huria’s journey at Viacom18 began in 2008, as part of the team that launched the Hindi general entertainment channel COLORS. Within nine months of its launch, COLORS became the leading channel in its category. Her transition to Maddock Films signals a new chapter, where she is expected to leverage her extensive experience in storytelling, branding, and communications to bolster the production house’s brand identity and consumer engagement.

Appointments 04-Jan-2025 Sonia Huria Amazon Prime Video Viacom18 Colors

Boeing appoints Ann Schmidt as communications chief

Boeing has appointed Ann Schmidt as its new Senior Vice President of Communications. Schmidt, a veteran of the company since 2005, has been serving as interim head of communications since October following the retirement of her predecessor, Brian Besanceney.This appointment marks the eighth change in this leadership position within the past eight years, reflecting a period of significant turbulence for the aerospace giant. CEO Kelly Ortberg, who assumed leadership in 2023, has initiated a series of senior management changes as part of his broader efforts to "rebuild trust" and address a "fundamental culture change" within the organization.Boeing has faced a series of critical challenges in recent years. Two fatal crashes of the 737 Max in 2018 and 2019, resulting in the grounding of the aircraft for 20 months, severely impacted the company's reputation. More recently, incidents such as a mid-air door blowout on an Alaska Airlines 737 and a significant strike by employees have further compounded the company's difficulties.These events have raised serious concerns about Boeing's safety culture and its commitment to employee safety. A report by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) raised concerns regarding the effectiveness of the company's Safety Management System, suggesting that employees may not fully understand their role in ensuring safety. Furthermore, employee interviews have revealed concerns about trust in the company's "Speak Up" program, designed to encourage safety reporting.Schmidt's appointment comes at a critical juncture for Boeing. As the company navigates these challenges, effective communication will be crucial in rebuilding trust with the public, regulators, and employees. Schmidt will be responsible for communicating the company's message and guiding its public image as it strives to recover from these setbacks and restore its reputation as a leader in the aerospace industry.

Appointments 28-Dec-2024 Kelly Ortberg Brian Besanceney Ann Schmidt Boeing

PHD EMEA appoints Susanne Grundmann as the CEO

Susanne Grundmann has been appointed as the CEO at PHD EMEA. Earlier she was the Chief Global Client Officer at Omnicom Media Group Germany and has spearheaded the largest account of PHD which is the Volkswagen Group that has renewed its eight year trelationship in the recent times. Since her joining in the year 2018, Susanne has shown exceptional leadership skills, leading success across global, regional and local levels while looking after several global clients. She was also the CEO of AMQ and the Chief Client Officer at MediaCom as well as the Department Manager, Marketing Communications & Branding at Nikon. She also worked in the Marketing Controlling department at Nikon Europe and others. She is an alumnus of Henley Business School and The University of Bonn.

Appointments 17-Dec-2024 Susanne Grundmann Volkswagen Group Omnicom Media Group Nikon Henley Business School The University of Bonn

Indian Beverage Association appoints Cumulus as Official Communications Partner

The Indian Beverage Association (IBA), the leading industry body representing India’s non-alcoholic beverage sector, has appointed Cumulus as its official communications and public relations partner. This appointment aims to amplify IBA’s industry presence, creating greater public engagement, and support its advocacy initiatives. The Indian Beverage Association serves as a collective voice for players in the non-alcoholic beverage sector including producers of carbonated drinks, juices, bottled water, and dairy-based beverages advancing the industry’s interests and promoting best practices. Cumulus will spearhead a comprehensive national campaign positioning IBA as the definitive voice for the sector’s stakeholders, including manufacturers, producers, and policymakers alike while highlighting IBA's dedication to addressing industry challenges and leveraging growth opportunities. Commenting on the agency’s appointment, Secretary General, Indian Beverage Association (IBA), JP Meena said "The non-alcoholic beverage sector is a key contributor to India’s economic growth and innovation landscape today - it is poised to make India a global hub. We believe that the time is right to enhance our efforts towards strategic communication with our stakeholders and drive awareness. Following a multi-agency pitch exercise, we found team Cumulus to be the right partners who share our sensibilities and long-term approach. We are assured that Cumulus’ expertise in creating impactful dialogues will make our communications outreach effective." On this prestigious win, Reena Sharma, CEO - Cumulus said, "Partnering with the Indian Beverage Association marks a proud and exciting new chapter for us. This win is a fantastic opportunity for us to learn from the best of industry experts and bring the non-alcoholic beverage industry’s vision to life with a compelling narrative that celebrates its present impact and its tremendous future potential." Aligned with IBA's commitment to shaping impactful policies, Cumulus will work to enhance the association’s reputation as a trusted industry advocate and a driver of sustainable growth within the sector.

Appointments 17-Dec-2024 Cumulus Reena Sharma JP Meena The Indian Beverage Association