Karan Arora has joined Volvo Auto India as Director, Marketing & PR, bringing more than fifteen years of experience across luxury automotive and luxury real estate marketing.Karan has spent a significant part of his career with some of the most respected names in the luxury automotive industry. He was associated with Audi India for over six years as Head of Marketing Communications & Experiential, where he led the brand’s launches, events and owner experiences. He also served as Regional Business Manager, North India, at Jaguar Land Rover.Beyond the automotive sector, Karan has led marketing across the ultra-luxury to premium residential segments at Godrej Properties, Central Park and Smartworld Developers, and for GROHE and American Standard at LIXIL India. Most recently, he was Vice President Marketing at Krisumi Corporation, India’s first Indo-Japanese joint venture real estate development.Over the course of his career, Karan has received several accolades, including the Times Leaders of Tomorrow Award (2024) and the ET Brand Equity Award for Exemplary Leadership & Contribution to Marketing in Real Estate (2026).Karan holds an MBA from the International Management Institute (IMI), New Delhi, and a Bachelor of Technology from UIET, Panjab University.

Steelbird Hi-Tech India Limited, one of the world’s leading helmet manufacturers, has appointed Vinay Kumar as Senior Manager – PR & Communications, strengthening its in-house communications function as the company continues to expand its brand presence and strengthen engagement with media, consumers, and industry stakeholders.In his new role, Kumar will lead media relations, corporate communications, brand positioning, and strategic PR initiatives for Steelbird. He will also oversee the company’s communication agencies and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure consistency in messaging, brand narrative, and day-to-day communication activities.Kumar brings over four years of experience in public relations and strategic communications, with significant exposure to the automotive and mobility sectors. Prior to joining Steelbird, he was associated with Regional Public Relations (RPR), a full-service communications consultancy known for its work across corporate communications, media relations, digital and social, regional PR, crisis communications, and online reputation management. RPR was established in 2009 and has built a network spanning multiple offices and partner associates across India.During his tenure at RPR, Kumar managed communication mandates across sectors and developed strong expertise in media engagement, press relations, strategic storytelling, product communication, launches, press meets, influencer engagement, and corporate PR. His association with Steelbird over the past three-and-a-half years has given him a deep understanding of the company, its leadership, products, business priorities, and evolving position within India's two-wheeler ecosystem.With his transition into an in-house role, Kumar will now take a more comprehensive responsibility for shaping Steelbird’s communication agenda, strengthening relationships with key media stakeholders and driving a unified approach to PR and brand communications.Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Limited, said, “Vinay has been closely associated with Steelbird’s communication journey for the past several years, and we have seen his understanding of our brand, our business, and the media landscape grow significantly during this period. His transition into an in-house role is a natural progression and presents an exciting opportunity for both Vinay and Steelbird. We are confident that his experience, understanding of the brand, and strong media relationships will further strengthen our communication efforts and help us build an even more consistent and impactful brand presence.”Commenting on his appointment, Vinay Kumar, Senior Manager – PR & Communications, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Limited, said, “Joining Steelbird in an in-house capacity is a very special opportunity for me. Having worked closely with the brand for the last three-and-a-half years, I have had the privilege of understanding its journey, people, products, and ambitions from close quarters. This new role gives me the opportunity to take that understanding forward and contribute more strategically to the brand’s communication and positioning. I look forward to building stronger media relationships, creating meaningful communication platforms, and working closely with the leadership, internal teams, and agency partners to further strengthen Steelbird’s voice and reputation.”Kumar’s appointment comes at a significant phase in Steelbird’s growth journey, with the company strengthening its manufacturing capabilities, expanding its product portfolio, and increasing its focus on innovation, safety, technology, and consumer-centric helmet solutions.With the move, Steelbird aims to further strengthen its integrated communications approach, bringing together media relations, corporate storytelling, brand positioning, and agency coordination under a focused communication strategy.

Speciality chemicals and ingredients distributor Caldic APAC has appointed Cecilie Mourits-Andersen as its new Marketing & Communications Director.Based in Singapore, Mourits-Andersen will lead the company's regional communication strategy and integrated marketing operations across Asia-Pacific. Her remit covers corporate branding and reputation management, media relations, social media, and regional event execution.Mourits-Andersen brings significant executive-level communications experience from Europe to her new Singapore-based role. Prior to joining Caldic, she served as Senior CEO Communications Advisor at Denmark-based biosolutions leader Novonesis.The appointment comes as Caldic continues to expand its footprint and unify its brand identity across the Asia-Pacific region following the integration and rebranding of its regional business entities under Caldic APAC.She wrote on her LinkedIn: “Saying goodbye to incredible colleagues at Novonesis, embarking on a sabbatical across Southeast Asia, and deciding to make Singapore home. My life has offered plenty of adventures over a short period of time.Now, I’m thrilled to start another one as I join Caldic as Marketing & Communications Director, APAC.It felt just right to join a company that’s on an exciting journey of its own following the merger of Caldic and Connell. The company has built deep market and technical expertise, close industry partnerships, and a strong footprint across Asia-Pacific. I’m looking forward to building on this foundation alongside the Caldic APAC team.”(Source: Telummedia)

Abhigale Barretto has joined Alkem Laboratories Ltd. as Manager, Corporate Communications, marking a move from agency-side communications to an in-house corporate communications role.Barretto joins Alkem Laboratories after a three-year stint at SPAG FINN Partners, where she most recently served as Senior Account Manager from October 2024 to August 2026. She had earlier held the role of Account Manager at the agency.Before SPAG FINN Partners, Barretto worked with sixdegreesbcw as Account Manager and Senior Account Executive. She also spent over two years at Scenic Communication, progressing from Jr. PR Executive to Senior Public Relations Executive.She began her professional journey with a Public Relations Internship at Mindworkz - We Create in October 2018.In her new role at Alkem Laboratories, Barretto will be part of the corporate communications function. Sharing the appointment, she said she looks forward to new learnings, meaningful collaborations and contributing to the organisation's work around people, innovation and community service.She also acknowledged Richa Kedar Sinari and Dr. Rajorshi Ganguli for their trust and the opportunity.

ASPR Communications has appointed Priya Mishra as  Business Development Manager. In her new role, Mishra will lead  business development initiatives for the agency across India, Dubai and other key markets.Startupbusiness resourcesMishra will focus on expanding ASPR Communications’ client portfolio and strengthening its presence across multiple service verticals.She brings experience across media and communications, having worked with news channels and PR agencies in India. With an engineering and communications background, Mishra also has an interest in technology, sustainability and emerging business trends.Commenting on her appointment, Priya Mishra, Business Development Manager, ASPR Communications, said, “Joining ASPR is an exciting opportunity to bring together my experience across media and communications with my interest in building businesses. I see a strong opportunity to work closely with founders and brands, understand the challenges they face in building visibility and growth, and connect them with the right communication solutions. I look forward to building meaningful partnerships and contributing to ASPR's next phase of growth.”Sakshi Singh, Founder, ASPR Communications, said, “Priya's appointment comes at a time when the communications landscape is changing rapidly, with new platforms, audiences and business models reshaping how brands build relevance. We are excited to have her bring a fresh perspective to ASPR and contribute to how we anticipate these shifts, experiment with new approaches and stay ahead of what the market will demand next.”ASPR Communications currently offers services across PR, corporate communications, influencer marketing, social media, digital marketing and performance marketing.

MENLO PARK, Calif.: Meta has appointed longtime executive Tucker Bounds to lead its global communications and public affairs operations, succeeding David Ginsberg, who is moving into a newly created role focused on AI and product innovation.The leadership transition, reported by Axios based on an internal staff memo, places Bounds at the centre of Meta's corporate communications and public affairs strategy at a time when artificial intelligence, platform safety and regulatory issues are increasingly prominent in the company's external affairs.Bounds is a veteran of Meta's communications organisation. He first joined Facebook in 2011 and remained with the company until 2014, returning in 2017. In his most recent role, he oversaw communications spanning Meta's products and apps, executive communications, corporate communications and social channels.His responsibilities have also included public affairs. When Meta reorganised its communications function in 2022 and appointed Ginsberg to lead global communications and public affairs, Bounds was given responsibility for a newly established global public affairs team.Ginsberg described the latest transition as part of a succession plan that had been in development for several years, according to the memo cited by Axios.Ginsberg moves into AI-focused roleRather than leaving Meta, Ginsberg will take up the position of Vice President, Product, Insights Innovation. He will work with Meta's Chief Data Officer Alex Schultz on applying AI to user research and product development.Ginsberg joined Facebook in 2017 and subsequently held senior positions across research and product before taking charge of the company's communications and public affairs organisation in 2022.The change reflects Meta's broader push to integrate AI more deeply into its products and internal operations, while communications and public affairs remain under Bounds' leadership.Bounds takes over as Meta reshapes its communications operationThe appointment gives Bounds responsibility for communicating Meta's position on a wide range of issues surrounding its platforms and business, including AI and platform safety. Axios reported that the change comes as the company continues to face regulatory and reputational scrutiny.Meta's wider global affairs organisation is led by Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan. Kevin Martin serves as Vice President of Global Policy.The move also marks a significant change in responsibilities for two executives who have spent years in senior positions at Meta. Bounds will take the communications and publicaffairs brief, while Ginsberg moves closer to the company's product and AI development work.The transition is part of a broader evolution in the role of corporate communications at major technology companies, where communications teams increasingly operate alongside policy, product, data and AI functions. Industry analysis published by PRovoke Media earlier this year similarly identified AI, reputational risk and the growing integration of communications with core business functions as major themes for communications leaders in 2026.

Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Tunjungan Plaza has appointed Renny Herwanto as its new Marketing Communications Manager, adding an experienced communications professional to the hotel's marketing team.In her new role, Herwanto will oversee a broad range of communications responsibilities, including media relations, corporate branding, storytelling, digital communications and events.She joins the Surabaya property following more than seven years with Philip Morris International, where she was involved in communications campaigns and media engagement in Indonesia.Herwanto's professional background spans marketing communications across multiple sectors, including tobacco, international education and hospitality. The hotel's LinkedIn profile currently identifies her as part of its team.The appointment comes as the hotel continues to position itself within Surabaya's competitive hospitality and business-events market. Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Tunjungan Plaza is located on Jalan Embong Malang and is directly connected to Tunjungan Plaza, a major shopping and entertainment complex in East Java. The property offers accommodation, dining, leisure facilities and meeting and event spaces.Herwanto's remit therefore covers communications activity across a property with both leisure and business audiences, including media engagement, brand storytelling and event-related communications.The appointment follows the hotel's 10th anniversary in 2026. (Source: telummedia.com)

Anchorpoint has appointed financial technology communications veteran Vivien Choi as its new Branding and Communications Lead in Hong Kong.In her new capacity, Choi will steer corporate communications, brand strategy, event management, and market positioning for the Hong Kong-licensed stablecoin issuer.Choi moves to Anchorpoint from digital asset custodian Hex Trust. Her professional background includes key marketing and communications roles at digital asset platforms OSL and OKX, as well as public relations agency experience with WE Communications."Great brands aren't built by talking about technology. They're built by helping people see possibility, understand value, and develop trust," Choi said regarding her appointment. "When innovation is communicated with clarity and purpose, adoption becomes a natural outcome."(Source: telummedia)

Hemshree Antani has joined BookMyShow in the PR & Corporate Communications function, marking a new chapter in her professional journey.Sharing the update, Antani wrote, “I have joined BookMyShow as PR & Corp Comm. I’m excited to explore this new stint further.”Prior to joining BookMyShow, Antani served as PR Manager at Think Ink Communications, where she worked across public relations and communications.In her new role, Antani will be part of BookMyShow’s communications function, contributing to its PR and corporate communications mandate.

Campus Activewear, one of India’s leading sports and athleisure footwear brands, has appointed Muskan Grover as Manager – PR and Corporate Communications.In her role, Muskan will lead corporate communications, media relations, leadership positioning and strategic storytelling for the brand. She will also contribute to strengthening Campus Activewear’s corporate reputation and communication across its brand, business and stakeholder narratives.Muskan brings close to nine years of experience in public relations and corporate communications, with expertise spanning strategic communications, media relations, brand storytelling, leadership positioning and stakeholder engagement. Prior to joining Campus Activewear, she has worked with India’s leading communications agencies like Adfactors PR and Burson where she worked across consumer, corporate and lifestyle mandates. At Campus Activewear, she has been involved in driving communications around the brand’s rebranding, category expansion and key corporate narratives, while also working across leadership visibility, thought leadership, internal communications and the company’s LinkedIn presence.

Partha Ghosh has joined JSW Group as Executive Vice President & Group Head of Communications, marking a new chapter in his professional career and a move to Mumbai with his family.Sharing the announcement on LinkedIn, Ghosh wrote, “New beginnings, new city! I'm happy to share that I have joined the JSW Group as Executive Vice President & Group Head of Communications.”Explaining what drew him to JSW Group, Ghosh said the organisation’s “leadership and sense of purpose” were key factors. He highlighted the group’s work across businesses as well as its initiatives in sports, heritage and art, and community development.Ghosh added, “Here is an organisation that is not only building world-class businesses, but is also laying the foundations of a progressive India, nurturing sports champions of tomorrow, conserving our rich heritage and art, and transforming communities across the country.”In his new role, Ghosh will lead communications for the diversified JSW Group. He also expressed his enthusiasm about working with colleagues across the organisation and thanked the friends, mentors and colleagues who have been part of his professional journey so far.

Strategic communications and public affairs consultancy The Sandpiper Group has announced the dual appointment of Aliyah Dar and Isabelle Trick to senior advisory positions based in Dubai and Singapore, respectively.Strengthening Public Affairs in the Middle EastOperating from Dubai, Aliyah Dar joins as Associate Director of Public Affairs to lead the expansion of Sandpiper's public affairs practice across the Middle East. Her remit focuses on guiding clients through the region’s sweeping national transformation agendas and strengthening their engagement with institutional and government stakeholders.Dar brings two decades of economic and policy advisory experience spanning Europe and the Middle East. Her background includes a senior strategy position at a Dubai-based investment firm, more than ten years within the UK government—highlighted by a tenure as Chief of Staff to His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for the Middle East and Pakistan—and most recently leading the UAE operations for Global Counsel.Commenting on her appointment, Dar noted: "The Middle East is undergoing extraordinary transformation, creating significant opportunities for organisations that can engage thoughtfully with government priorities and national visions. I'm excited to join Sandpiper and to help clients build the relationships and insight they need to succeed in the region."Expanding Capabilities Across Asia PacificBased in Singapore, Isabelle Trick steps into her new role as Associate Director of Public Affairs to drive the growth of Sandpiper’s capabilities across Southeast Asia and the wider Asia Pacific region. She will advise multinational corporations, institutional investors, and private equity firms on navigating regulatory shifts, policymaker engagement, and government relations.Trick brings extensive political risk expertise across emerging markets in Asia, Europe, and Africa, covering sectors such as technology, healthcare, financial services, and energy. She also joins Sandpiper from Global Counsel, where she directed Investor Services and Global Macro projects, following prior leadership experience running an international non-profit organization.Expressing enthusiasm for her new role, Trick said: "Singapore sits at the centre of the region's policy conversations, and clients increasingly need advisors who can connect the dots between regulation, reputation, and investment. I'm delighted to join Sandpiper and look forward to building on the firm's strong foundations across the region."Integrated Regional GrowthIn their respective capacities, both appointees will collaborate closely with Sandpiper's leadership teams across the Middle East and Asia Pacific. Their work will integrate public affairs, research, and strategic communications to help clients manage market entry, regulatory turbulence, and periods of intense public and political oversight.Kelly Johnston, Chief Operating Officer of Sandpiper, emphasized the strategic importance of the hires: "Public policy is now one of the defining factors shaping how businesses across Asia Pacific and the Middle East grow and protect their reputations. Isabelle and Aliyah bring deep expertise and strong relationships in two of the most important hubs in our network. Their appointments significantly strengthen our ability to help clients understand the policy landscape, engage constructively with governments, and turn regulatory complexity into strategic advantage."

Neil Talnikar has joined Dani Sports Foundation as Communications Manager, marking a new chapter in his professional career.Sharing the update on LinkedIn, Talnikar wrote, “I’m excited to start a new journey in my professional career as Communications Manager at Dani Sports Foundation!”Prior to joining Dani Sports Foundation, Talnikar served as PR & Corporate Communications Consultant at RISE Worldwide Limited, where he worked across public relations and corporate communications.

Nancy Gulati has joined SaaS Labs as Head of Corporate Communications, marking her latest move in a communications career spanning over 16 years.Gulati joins SaaS Labs after more than five years at Truecaller, where she most recently served as Senior Public Relations Manager. During her tenure, she worked on strategic communications, media relations, reputation management, crisis communications, and executive communications.Before Truecaller, Gulati was with Adfactors PR for over five years, serving as Account Manager. She began her career in communications at Sristi Communications and later spent nearly five years at Perfect Relations, where she held roles including Associate Image Manager, Senior Account Executive, and PR Executive.In her new role at SaaS Labs, Gulati will focus on corporate communications as the company continues to build its brand and corporate reputation.

Microsoft is overhauling its corporate structure by moving its communications function out of the marketing division and placing it under Vice Chair and President Brad Smith. The shift comes as the technology giant prepares for its first Chief Communications Officer (CCO) transition in 17 years. Leadership and Interim TransitionFollowing the departure announcement of longtime CCO Frank Shaw earlier this month, Brent Colburn—Microsoft's VP of Global Public Affairs—will step in as the interim communications leader starting next week. Colburn, who had originally planned to exit the company in October, will stay on through December to manage the transition, though he is not a candidate for the permanent CCO position. Meanwhile, Shaw will step back from his day-to-day responsibilities to act as an advisor to Smith and Colburn. Both the interim leader and the eventual permanent CCO will report directly to Smith.Strategic Realignment and Corporate StructureUnder the new organizational design, communications will transition out of the marketing organization led by Chief Marketing Officer Takeshi Numoto. Instead, it will fall under Smith’s Corporate, External and Legal Affairs organization, which houses Microsoft's regulatory, legal, public policy, and government relations operations.Despite the structural shift, CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the importance of maintaining close coordination between communications and marketing. As part of this, Colburn will join Numoto’s leadership team during the transition period.A Broader Approach to the Public VoiceThe restructuring coincides with a push from leadership for employees across the company to take a more active role in Microsoft's public narrative."In many ways, the people closest to the work have the best opportunity to shape how Microsoft is understood," Nadella wrote in an internal memo obtained by GeekWire, noting that engineers, partners, and sellers should play a larger role in storytelling. Smith echoed these sentiments, indicating that more employees and executives will likely act as external voices for the company, including on social media channels. Smith, a Microsoft veteran who joined the company in 1993 and formerly served as general counsel, is already one of its leading external spokespeople—particularly concerning artificial intelligence, public policy, and regulation. He has previously emphasized corporate accountability in building public trust, notably warning at the World Economic Forum in Davos that AI could erode public trust if governments and businesses fail to manage its disruptive impacts.

Universal Sompo General Insurance Co. Ltd. has appointed Aparna Mehrotra as Assistant Vice President and Strategic Lead – Communications, Public Relations & Social Media.In her new role, Mehrotra will work across communications, public relations and social media, bringing together her experience in PR, brand, marketing and social media.Prior to joining Universal Sompo, Mehrotra spent over four years with SBI General Insurance, where she most recently served as Chief Manager – Corporate Communications. She joined the company as Manager – Corporate Communications in March 2022, moved into the role of Senior Manager in April 2023 and was elevated to Chief Manager in May 2024.Before SBI General Insurance, Mehrotra was with Havas Group India for nearly three years, serving as Senior Manager – Marketing and Communications and Manager – Marketing & Communication.Her earlier experience includes roles at Adfactors PR, MullenLowe Lintas Group and its PR division, GolinOpinion, as well as an internship with Liopinion, the Lintas PR Division.

ICCPL, an Indian-grown, large-sized public relations and integrated communications company specialising in real estate, retail and lifestyle communications, has added APEX Acreages Private Limited to its growing portfolio of real estate mandates.Under the mandate, ICCPL will lead the strategic public relations and communications mandate for APEX Acreages, with a focus on strengthening its corporate positioning, enhancing leadership visibility and building a stronger narrative around its expertise in the luxury and branded residences segment.Established in 2011, APEX Acreages is a premium real estate advisory, brokerage and consultancy firm based in Gurugram. The company states that its core expertise lies in luxury and branded residences, with a focus on delivering credible, transparent and high-value real estate transactions.The addition of APEX Acreages comes amid continued momentum for ICCPL’s real estate practice. Earlier this year, the agency added several prominent names to its portfolio, including CREDAI National, MUREC, GB Realty, Gillco Group and Numax, among others, further expanding its presence across diverse segments and markets within the real estate ecosystem.The mandate further strengthens ICCPL’s growing real estate practice and its engagement with companies operating across residential real estate, luxury and branded residences, advisory and allied segments.

Mitesh Popat has joined Next Communications as Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, according to his LinkedIn update.Popat said he is joining the company alongside Jignesh Dave and Vishal Dave, with the venture focused on enabling “brand-led connectivity” that is instant, programmable and designed for enterprises to support growth.He described the venture as being in its early stages, adding that there is significant work ahead to build the business. Popat also highlighted the importance of team and ambition in turning an idea into something people can rely on.Prior to joining Next Communications, Popat served as Chief Financial Officer at Flutterwave from June 2024 to September 2026. He will continue with Flutterwave as a Strategic Advisor.Before Flutterwave, Popat spent nearly 18 years at Citi, where he held several leadership roles across finance, treasury, capital planning and operations. His most recent Citi role was Chief Financial Officer, Middle East and Africa, which he held from November 2023 to May 2024.During his tenure at Citi, Popat also served as Chief Financial Officer, Global Equities Sales and Trading and Market Research; Head of Recovery and Resolution Planning, Treasury; Head of Capital Forecasting and Analytics, Treasury; Chief Transformation Officer, Capital Planning; and Chief Operating Officer, Sub-Saharan Africa, among other roles.

Social@Ogilvy, the unified social and influence division of Ogilvy Australia, has announced the appointment of seasoned international social strategist Cleber de Almeida as its new Social Strategy Director in Sydney. De Almeida joins the Australian team after spending more than 15 years with Ogilvy in Brazil. During his tenure, he served as the strategic and operational lead for major global clients and, more recently, managed Coca-Cola’s LATAM social capability. He brings extensive multi-disciplinary leadership expertise spanning creative strategy, data intelligence, community management, real-time activation, and the execution of unified regional roadmaps. An innovator in the digital space, de Almeida has pioneered the integration of artificial intelligence and social data into large-scale content production. Notably, he spearheaded the Game Time Loop for Coca-Cola during the FIFA World Cup, managing the global initiative for WPP’s dedicated OpenX unit. Ogilvy Network ANZ CEO Kirsty Muddle highlighted the strategic value of his hire in today's fast-paced media environment. "Social today sits at the intersection of creativity, data and speed," Muddle said. "It takes ideas strong enough to earn attention, the intelligence to know where and when they will matter, and the capability to act in real time. Cleber brings all three and knows how to use WPP Open to connect them."Daniel Young, Ogilvy’s Group Managing Director of Social and Influence, echoed these sentiments, praising de Almeida's legacy of modernization within the network. "Throughout his Ogilvy career, Cleber has been recognised as a beacon of innovation, creativity, and modernity," Young noted. "He brings a unique blend of global brand experience teamed with innovation and leading-edge social application. We’re excited to have this expertise both within the Australian and regional team."Reflecting on his transition to the Australian market, de Almeida expressed enthusiasm for continuing his long-standing journey with the global network. "Ogilvy has been my home for many years, and it’s been a privilege to be part of a global team that has developed what is now a world-leading social and influence capability," de Almeida said. "I’m looking forward to working within a new region that is clearly driven by constant innovation and an ability to apply both proven tools and approaches and develop new ways of thinking to drive growth."

Caleb Yap has been seconded to the Singapore Nuclear Research and Safety Institute, stepping into the role of Head, Communications & Public Education.In this leadership capacity, Yap will oversee all communications initiatives, spanning media relations, marketing communications, stakeholder engagement, and public education.Yap brings more than eight years of extensive communications experience within the government sector. Prior to this secondment, he served as Senior Deputy Director (Communications & Engagement Planning) at Singapore’s Ministry of Education.(Source: telummedia)

Inspira Global has appointed Neha Phale as Group Head – Marketing Communications, where she will oversee the Group’s corporate narrative, brand positioning and integrated communications across its portfolio of businesses.In her new role, Phale will lead marketing communications initiatives spanning corporate storytelling, brand narratives, thought leadership, internal communications and stakeholder engagement. She will work with the leadership and business teams on building a consistent narrative for Inspira Global and its businesses.Inspira Global has interests across real estate, food services, international trade and luxury home products. Its portfolio includes Inspira Realty, Lenexis FoodWorks, Inspira EXIM and SEVA Home.Phale brings over 20 years of experience across corporate communications, internal communications, public affairs and strategic stakeholder engagement. Before joining Inspira Global, she held senior communications roles at VVF India Limited and Huhtamaki. Her earlier experience includes working with Welspun India, Huntsman International and Dow Chemicals.At Inspira Global, Phale’s mandate will include developing the Group’s corporate communications architecture, strengthening its visibility and shaping narratives around its businesses, leadership, people and growth journey.

Disha Sanghvi has joined Indian artificial intelligence company Sarvam as Brand & Communications Lead, marking her move into the AI space after a career spanning journalism, fintech and brand communications.Sanghvi began her career as a journalist at Mint, where she covered insurance and fintech regulation. She later moved into the businesses she had previously reported on, gaining experience across financial products and consumer communication.Prior to joining Sarvam, Sanghvi was associated with ZET, where she worked across brand, content, public relations and performance marketing.In her new role at Sarvam, Sanghvi will focus on building the company’s brand and communications strategy. She said her interest in the role was driven by Sarvam’s work in shaping India’s position in frontier AI.Throughout her career, Sanghvi has been guided by the instinct of “making the complicated feel obvious”, an approach she said is particularly relevant to the emerging AI industry.

The Startup Policy Forum (SPF) has appointed Akashdeep Baruah as its Communications Lead. He brings over seven years of experience across news organisations including CNBC-TV18, Reuters, Times Now and Business Today.In his new role at SPF, Baruah will lead social media, communications and media relations. He will also work on integrating AI into the organisation’s workflows and strengthening SPF’s communication of its policy positions to key audiences.Commenting on the appointment, Shweta Rajpal Kohli, President and CEO, Startup Policy Forum, said, “Akash brings a rare combination of a newsroom backbone and a product-growth mindset. As we build a startup that serves other startups, we need communications that move with speed and scale without compromising on quality, and Akash is the right person to lead that.”Baruah said SPF is building at the intersection of policy and the startups it represents.

Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd has appointed Lalita Tiwari as Lead - Corporate Communications. Tiwari brings over 18 years of experience across public relations, media strategy, production, visual communications, and internal communications.In her new role, Tiwari will contribute to the financial services firm's corporate communications function, drawing on her experience across external and internal communication. Her professional experience spans PR, media strategy, production, visual communications, and internal communications.Motilal Oswal Financial Services announced the appointment on LinkedIn, welcoming Tiwari to the organisation and highlighting her “diverse perspective and rich expertise in building impactful communication.”

Sreeja MS has joined White Gold as Head of Communications, marking a new phase in her 15 year career spanning journalism, media and branded content.Sreeja began her career in journalism while in college, working with a hospitality magazine before joining News9 as an Associate Producer. She worked across news stories, bulletins and features, before moving into reporting and gaining experience in field journalism and news gathering.Reflecting on the transition, Sreeja said, “15 years ago, I walked into my first newsroom. Today I'm walking into my first boardroom.”She also credited her early newsroom experience and the journalists she worked with for shaping her approach to storytelling and reporting. “I did journalism that MATTERED. That made an IMPACT. I'll carry that with me,” she said.After spending more than a decade in mainstream journalism, Sreeja made her first career transition three years ago, moving into branded content within the media industry at Times Network. She credited Mihir Bhatt for opening the opportunity.At White Gold, Sreeja will lead the company's communications mandate as it builds its position in the organised gold buying space.

MarkNext Group has appointed Nabeel A. Khan as Group Chief Executive Officer and Editor-in-Chief, as the media, reputation intelligence and communications advisory firm plans to expand into new markets.Khan will lead the group’s global operations and oversee its new media ventures across India, the Middle East and Africa (MEA). In his dual role, he will be responsible for driving the group’s strategic direction across reputation intelligence, public relations and corporate communications advisory, while also leading the editorial direction of its upcoming media platform.Khan brings more than two decades of experience spanning journalism, corporate communications and strategic leadership. He was the Founding Editor of The Economic Times Verticals, where he worked on new business media formats and knowledge platforms, and has also held senior editorial roles at Network18.He later moved into corporate communications and most recently served as Deputy Vice-President & Head of PR, Communications & Public Affairs at Renault India. Prior to that, he was Country Head – Middle East at Motherson Group.As Group CEO, Khan will oversee MarkNext Group’s growth and expansion across its media and communications businesses. As Editor-in-Chief, he will lead the editorial direction and launch of the group’s upcoming new media platform.Commenting on his appointment, Khan said, “The media and communications landscape is at a critical inflection point. With the proliferation of AI and social media, there is a massive overflow of information and increasing noise, while clarity, quality and credibility (CQC) have been pushed to the edge. MarkNext Group’s agenda is to emerge as the solution to these new-age challenges in news, information and communication. Through our advisory arms and our upcoming media venture, our mission is to cut through the static and deliver high-signal intelligence and reporting that truly matters.”The appointment comes as MarkNext Group plans to expand its presence into new markets. The group is also looking to build partnerships and strengthen its market presence in the Middle East, particularly as Dubai and the wider region broaden their business and economic focus across technology, innovation and new business ventures.

Ashley Knapp has joined Thales as Communications Director, Asia, based in Singapore. She announced the appointment on LinkedIn, sharing that she has started a new position with the company in September 2026.In her new role, Knapp’s responsibilities include internal and external communications, crisis communications and related corporate communications functions.Knapp joins Thales after nearly four years at Schneider Electric, where she served as Head of Brand and Corporate Affairs, East Asia, from June 2022 to April 2026. In that role, she led corporate, executive, internal and external communications across 14 countries and worked with a community of around 20 communicators across the region.Her remit at Schneider Electric included reputation management, executive communications, crisis communications, media relations and employee engagement. She also led the company’s Green Impact Gap campaign, which focused on AI, sustainability and Green IT.Before Schneider Electric, Knapp was Senior Vice President at Teneo, where she advised leadership teams on reputation risk, ESG disclosure narratives and stakeholder communications.She previously served as Strategic Communications Advisor as an independent consultant and was Head of Communications, Asia Pacific, at 100 Resilient Cities, an initiative pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation.

Burson has appointed former Accenture executive Jennifer Stearns as its global chief innovation officer, succeeding Chad Latz, who announced his departure from the agency last week.Stearns will join Burson on September 22 and will oversee the agency’s AI and innovation initiatives. Her responsibilities will include developing new products, expanding existing technology tools and working with WPP on the broader use of AI across the business.She brings more than a decade of executive experience at Accenture, where she held leadership roles spanning technology, sales and organisational change.The appointment comes shortly after Burson acquired predictive intelligence company Limbik. The company had previously partnered with Burson on Decipher, an AI-powered platform designed to identify and assess emerging narratives.As part of the acquisition, Limbik co-founders Zach Schwitzky and Josh Levin joined Burson. Schwitzky was appointed global head of innovation, AI platforms and products, while Levin took on the role of global head of innovation, clients and growth.Latz announced his departure on September 10 after 17 years across WPP, Burson and its predecessor agencies. He had served as Burson’s global chief innovation officer since the agency was formed through the 2024 merger of BCW and Hill & Knowlton, having previously held the same position at BCW.During his tenure, Latz led Burson’s innovation and product development efforts, including its AI initiatives, and worked closely with Schwitzky and Levin on projects including Decipher.Burson CEO Corey duBrowa thanked Latz for his contribution to the agency’s innovation capabilities during a period of significant transformation.“His efforts helped strengthen the foundation we are building upon today,” duBrowa said.

Dubai-based communications agency North Seventy Five has appointed Mustapha Al-Tayech as Associate Director, with responsibility for sustainability, energy and financial communications across the Middle East.Al-Tayech joins North Seventy Five from Burson, where he spent more than 12 years advising organisations including the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and Saudi Aramco.During his tenure at Burson, he worked across mandates covering financial-centre growth and investment, energy transition, major destination and infrastructure projects, and reputation-critical issues.In his new role, Al-Tayech will focus on strengthening North Seventy Five’s work across finance, energy and sustainability, while supporting the agency’s growth in the region.“I spent more than a decade working alongside Lisa and Iman, so there is already a great deal of trust and familiarity between us,” said Al-Tayech. “What made North Seventy Five particularly exciting was the opportunity to bring that shared experience into something newer and more entrepreneurial, whilst staying close to the kind of complex, high-stakes work I’ve always enjoyed.”Lisa Welsh, Co-founder and Managing Partner, North Seventy Five, said Al-Tayech’s appointment comes as clients increasingly expand into sectors including sustainability, energy, real estate and finance.“Mustapha has spent over a decade advising some of the region’s most influential organisations through the moments that matter most, and that depth of experience makes him a natural fit for North Seventy Five,” Welsh said.

Canada Super 60 has announced the appointment of Raj Kang as Director of Communications & Strategic Partnerships, strengthening its leadership team as the league continues to build its profile and international reach.Raj brings a distinctive combination of corporate expertise, entrepreneurship and high-level experience across cricket, events and strategic partnerships. A Chartered Accountant by background, she spent more than a decade with Ernst & Young (EY), working at a senior level before moving into entrepreneurship, investment and property development.In recent years, Raj has built a strong presence within the cricket and events landscape, curating and delivering major international cricket-led events and building relationships across players, global brands, sponsors, business leaders and influential figures.Known for bringing together people, partnerships and platforms, she combines commercial strategy with communications, relationship-building and creative direction. In her role at Canada Super 60, Raj will lead the league’s communications and develop key relationships across players, team owners, sponsors and commercial partners.Abhishek Shah, Founder and Chairman of Canada Super 60, said: “We are delighted to welcome Raj to Canada Super 60. With Yuvraj Singh’s leadership and passion for creating opportunities for emerging talent, we are building a platform that connects Canadian cricket with the wider cricketing world. Raj brings the corporate discipline, entrepreneurial thinking and experience in cricket and events to help advance that vision. Her ability to build meaningful relationships and communicate our story will be invaluable as we strengthen the league’s profile and partnerships.”Raj Kang, Director of Communications & Strategic Partnerships, Canada Super 60, said: “Canada Super 60 has a real opportunity to build a distinctive and internationally recognised platform for Canadian cricket. To be joining the league alongside Yuvraj Singh, whose journey and influence in the game resonate across generations, makes that opportunity particularly exciting.I’m delighted to be working with Yuvraj, Abhishek and the wider team, bringing together my experience across business, cricket, communications, events and strategic partnerships. My focus will be on strengthening the league’s voice and visibility, building meaningful relationships across players, team owners, sponsors and commercial partners, and creating strategic collaborations that can help take Canada Super 60 to the next level.There is enormous potential for the league to connect Canadian cricket with a wider international audience, and I’m excited to play a part in shaping that growth.”Raj’s appointment supports Canada Super 60’s ambition to build an internationally connected cricket platform, with strong communications and enduring relationships at the heart of its development.

Singapore-based corporate communications consultancy 8PR Asia has appointed Shirley Wong as Partner, strengthening its capabilities in investor relations, value communications and capital-markets advisory.Wong brings more than 15 years of experience spanning corporate communications, investor relations and consultancy roles across Asia. She joins 8PR Asia after serving as Head of Strategic Communications at SGX Catalist-listed OUE Healthcare and as Investor Relations Director at SGX Mainboard-listed 17LIVE.Her previous agency experience includes positions at international communications consultancy Kreab and Singapore-based boutique consultancy Cogent Communications.In her new role, Wong will advise companies on investor relations and value communications, with a focus on how corporate value and business strategies are communicated to investors and the wider market.Her responsibilities will also cover cross-border financial and capital-markets communications, including transactions, listings and market-entry initiatives. She will work with listed companies, exchanges, investors and other capital-markets stakeholders to strengthen investor engagement and communications.The appointment comes as 8PR Asia has been added to the eligible service-provider panel for the Elevate Grant, part of SGX's Value Unlock programme. The initiative supports listed companies seeking to strengthen investor relations and improve how they communicate their value to the market.Alex Tan, Founder and Partner, 8PR Asia, said Wong's combination of investor-relations expertise and in-house experience would strengthen the consultancy's ability to advise clients on complex communications and capital-markets matters.“Shirley brings deep investor relations experience, strong strategic judgement and an in-house commercial perspective,” Tan said.Wong said the growing use of automation in communications was increasing the importance of human judgement, particularly when companies communicate with investors.“As communications becomes more automated, human judgement becomes the premium layer,” she said. “In investor communications, the goal is not just visibility, but relevance and resonance with the people who shape how a company is understood and valued.”8PR Asia specialises in investor relations, strategic communications and capital-markets communications, serving companies navigating corporate, financial and investor communications requirements.

Sunitha Simon has joined Corteva Agriscience as Communications Lead for South Asia, marking a move into the agricultural sector after nearly 17 years with Airtel.Simon announced her new role on LinkedIn, describing the move as a deliberate choice driven by purpose. She said she was proud to be part of an industry focused on innovation and resilience.Prior to joining Corteva Agriscience, Simon spent more than 16 years at Airtel across corporate, regional and consumer communications roles. Most recently, she served as General Manager and Communications Lead for B2C, a position she held from June 2022.During her tenure at Airtel, Simon led communications initiatives across consumer segments and worked on national media strategy, leadership communications, brand positioning and stakeholder engagement. Her work included communications around Airtel’s 5G launch, the company’s AI tool and its spam protection solution.Before this, Simon served as National Communications Lead for Homes and DTH from June 2020 to June 2022. She also held the role of Senior Manager and Communications Head for South and East between June 2018 and June 2020, where she led regional communications and brand initiatives.Simon joined Airtel in January 2010 as Senior Executive for Corporate Communications and went on to hold several leadership positions within the company.Earlier in her career, she worked as Regional Communications Director at CFCA and Corporate Communications Manager at Nandan Biomatrix. She began her professional journey in media as a Content Programmer and Radio Jockey with Orange Media.At Corteva Agriscience, Simon is based in South Asia and is responsible for communications leadership for the region.

Tech Mahindra has appointed Sarah Gideon as Global Head, Corporate Communications & Public Affairs. In the role, Gideon will lead the company’s corporate communications and public affairs mandate across its global markets.Gideon joins Tech Mahindra after a six year stint at Flipkart, where she most recently served as Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Head, Corporate Communications and CSR.At Tech Mahindra, her mandate will span corporate narrative, reputation management and engagement with key stakeholder groups across the company’s global markets.Gideon brings experience in corporate communications and reputation management across technology and digital organisations. Prior to Flipkart, she spent more than a decade at Infosys, where she headed corporate communications.Her experience includes corporate reputation, leadership communications, stakeholder engagement and communications for large, complex organisations.

K2 Infragen Limited has announced the appointment of Ms Sanjana Grover as Assistant General Manager – Corporate Communications, as the infrastructure company strengthens its communications function in line with its expanding business and institutional growth agenda.The appointment comes at a time when K2 Infragen is sharpening its focus on building stronger stakeholder engagement and creating a more structured corporate communications framework to support its evolving scale, reputation and market positioning.In her new role, Sanjana will focus on strengthening the company’s corporate communications strategy across media relations, leadership communications, stakeholder engagement, digital and content platforms, internal communications and corporate reputation. She will also work closely with the leadership team to build consistent narratives around K2 Infragen’s business growth, project capabilities, execution philosophy and long-term institutional vision.Sanjana brings over five years of experience in corporate communications and public relations, with exposure across India and APAC. Prior to joining K2 Infragen, she was associated with Olympus India, where she worked on internal and external communications aligned with regional and global priorities, leadership messaging, digital platforms, and thought leadership.Earlier, during her tenure with Transport Corporation of India Limited, she worked across corporate reputation, strategic communications, investor relations, CSR and ESG communications, while also supporting media outreach and strengthening the company’s online share of voice. Her experience also includes building engagement with national as well as international industry bodies and associations. Commenting on the appointment, Mr Pankaj Sharma, Founder & Managing Director, K2 Infragen Limited, said, “As K2 Infragen grows, it is important for us to build a communications function that reflects the organisation’s ambition and evolving scale. Our capabilities, work and stakeholder relationships need to be communicated with greater consistency and strategic intent. Sanjana’s experience across corporate reputation, leadership communications and stakeholder engagement will contribute to building a stronger and more institutional communications framework for K2 Infragen.”On joining K2 Infragen, Ms Sanjana Grover said, “K2 Infragen is at an exciting stage of its growth journey. My focus will be on building clear, credible and consistent communication that brings the organisation’s business priorities, capabilities and leadership vision closer to its stakeholders. I look forward to working with the leadership and teams to strengthen K2’s corporate narrative and reputation across relevant platforms.”The appointment reinforces K2 Infragen’s focus on strengthening key corporate functions and building a more structured institutional identity as the company continues to scale.

Global communications firm FINN Partners has appointed Anusuya Mitra as Partner to lead its corporate communications practice in Hong Kong and oversee strategic growth initiatives across Greater China and the wider Asia-Pacific region.Mitra brings more than 17 years of agency and in-house experience across major Asian financial and commercial hubs, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Mumbai. In her new role, her scope includes driving business development, expanding team capabilities, and securing client briefs centered on brand reputation and corporate storytelling."Anu brings a proven track record of navigating regional landscapes and executing integrated corporate communications strategies," said Annouchka Behrmann, Managing Partner of FINN Partners Greater China. "Her understanding of cultural nuances across India, Mainland China, and Hong Kong will be valuable as we grow our portfolio and deliver communications excellence for our clients.”Prior to joining FINN Partners, Mitra served as Regional Director of Corporate Communications at Hong Kong-based agency Sinclair. Her background spans both agency and corporate positions at organizations including FedEx Express APAC, Ketchum, WPP, WE Communications, Archetype, and Adfactors PR.Throughout her career, Mitra has managed communications strategies across sectors including logistics, technology, real estate, and education. Her client portfolio includes major international brands and organizations such as Lenovo, HP, Honeywell, FedEx, CBRE, Pacific Basin, New Development Bank, and Hong Kong Talent Engage."I love the art and hustle of communications — it suits my high-energy, people-first style," Mitra said. "I am thrilled to be part of FINN Partners because of their strong reputation for combining global reach with deep local insight... and am ready to go after meaningful remits where brand reputation really matters."

Chobani has appointed Evan Scharf as Senior Internal Communications Specialist, marking his move to the food and beverage company after nearly four years with Ralph Lauren.Scharf announced the move on LinkedIn, sharing that he had started a new position at Chobani. His profile lists the role as beginning in September 2026 and based in New York.He joins Chobani after spending around four years at Ralph Lauren, where he most recently served as Employee Communications Manager, Global Corporate Communications. He held the role from February 2025 to June 2026, following nearly three years as Communications Coordinator, Store Operations. His experience at Ralph Lauren included work across employee and corporate communications.Before Ralph Lauren, Scharf was Marketing Communications Coordinator at The 614 Group, where his experience included content creation and communications across digital platforms, email, social media and PR. Earlier in his career, he worked as a Public Relations and Social Media Coordinator at Six Flags.

APCO, a global advisory and advocacy firm, announced that John Defterios, the award-winning former CNN emerging markets editor and energy correspondent and longtime senior advisor to the firm, has been named chairman of APCO in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.“Clients around the world increasingly see MENA as a region of growing economic, political and strategic importance, and they are looking for insights and strategic help to engage it effectively, while clients within the region are looking to forge their optimal place on the world stage,” APCO President and Chief Operating Officer Evan Kraus said. “As a fully integrated global and cross-disciplinary firm, APCO is in a prime position to help clients navigate this increasingly complex and consequential geo-commercial environment. John’s appointment as chairman supercharges that capability, given his unmatched experience with these global dynamics and the relationships needed to help clients achieve their ambitions within them.”“I have watched APCO’s expansion across the Middle East and other high-growth markets with great interest and respect since I first joined the firm as a senior advisor in 2021,” said Defterios. “My focus is on MENA clients, but it’s equally important to APCO’s global portfolio: the region is a fast-growing global financial, trade, energy and artificial intelligence hub. I look forward to helping APCO’s clients everywhere make sense of a region being reshaped by the energy transition, new investment corridors and geopolitical realignment—and to working even more closely with such a talented global team at APCO.”Defterios first joined APCO in July 2021 as a senior advisor. Across more than three decades working at the intersection of business, government, energy, trade and geopolitics, he has developed a deep understanding of MENA and other high-growth markets, as well as trusted relationships with senior leaders across the public and private sectors. Before joining APCO, he served as CNN’s emerging markets editor, energy correspondent and anchor, including a decade based in the network’s Abu Dhabi bureau.Defterios also serves as the global lead for APCO’s Storybook Studio, the firm’s in-house content studio, where he draws on his journalism network to help APCO’s team of award-winning international and regional journalists identify, create and distribute live studio coverage from Tier 1 forums and summits, along with branded content series and documentaries for clients across the world on leading television, digital and social media platforms.“John will be joining our MENA team this month, and his mandate is clear and immediate,” said Samer El Hachem, president of APCO in the MENA region. “He will focus on two priorities: supporting our new business efforts, drawing on his deep network across the region, and serving as a senior advisor to our team and clients on an as-needed basis. Having someone with his standing and relationships in this capacity is a real asset for our clients as they plan for the year ahead.”APCO has operated in the MENA region for more than two decades, with teams based in Abu Dhabi, Amman, Doha, Dubai, Manama and Riyadh. The firm advises governments, multinational corporations, sovereign entities and family-owned enterprises on strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management and sustainability across the energy, finance, technology, healthcare, infrastructure and tourism sectors. Defterios’s appointment adds a widely recognized regional voice to that team as APCO enters its next phase of growth in MENA.

Emma Rogerson has joined Teach Us Consent as Communications Manager, moving in-house after a career in agency communications.Rogerson joins the organisation from Sling & Stone, where she was an Account Director. She previously worked agency-side at Adhesive.At Teach Us Consent, Rogerson will take on communications as the organisation continues to advocate for earlier and more comprehensive consent and sexuality education in schools.Her appointment marks a move from agency-side communications into an in-house role with an organisation focused on education, consent and social change.(Source: telummedia)

Corporate and financial communications firm FGS Global has appointed former BBC Director-General Tim Davie as a partner within its Strategy & Reputation practice. The move aims to strengthen the KKR-backed agency's C-suite and board-level advisory capabilities globally.Davie, who served as the 17th Director-General of the BBC from September 2020 to April 2026, brings extensive experience in crisis management, public policy, and corporate restructuring after leading the public broadcaster through years of heightened public and political scrutiny. Prior to his tenure as Director-General, Davie served as Chief Executive of BBC Studios, where he integrated the broadcaster's production and distribution operations to build a unit generating over £1.4 billion in annual revenue."Tim brings a depth of experience that is genuinely rare,” said Faeth Birch, UKMEA CEO at FGS Global. ”He has led one of the world's most complex and scrutinized institutions, navigated some of the most demanding moments in modern public life, and built lasting relationships across the U.K. and international business community.”Before entering public broadcasting as the BBC's Director of Marketing, Communications, and Audiences in 2005, Davie held corporate leadership roles in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, serving as Vice President of Marketing and Finance at PepsiCo Europe following an early career at Procter & Gamble.

Global hospitality company Hilton has elevated long-standing executive Erica Cary to Vice President, Internal Communications & Community Partnerships. Based in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore area, Cary will lead Hilton’s global internal communications strategy while also overseeing the company’s community initiatives, including efforts to maximise the impact of the Hilton Global Foundation.Announcing the move on LinkedIn, Cary said the new role brings together several areas she has been passionate about throughout her career, including people, purpose, partnerships and communications. She described the role as being about “building connective tissue” by turning purpose into action, partnerships into opportunity and communication into a business enabler.Cary has been with Hilton since 2016 and brings more than a decade of leadership experience across the organisation. She most recently served as Vice President, Global HR Business Partner. Earlier, she held senior roles including Vice President of HR Consulting, Vice President of HR Technology and Services and Senior Director of Digital Product Management.Before joining Hilton, Cary held roles across enterprise portfolio management, digital transformation and technical systems at organisations including Neiman Marcus, RadioShack, Target, IBM and Lockheed Martin.

Omnichannel eyewear retailer Lenskart.com has appointed communications strategist Abhishek Chauhan as Corporate Communications & PR Leader. Based in New Delhi, Chauhan will oversee the company’s corporate reputation, brand narrative, media relations and strategic communications as Lenskart continues to expand its retail presence in India and international markets.Chauhan announced the move on LinkedIn, writing, “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Corporate Communications & PR Leader at Lenskart.com!”Chauhan brings over a decade of experience in corporate reputation, crisis management and stakeholder engagement. He joins Lenskart after a four-and-a-half-year stint with Ola Group, where he progressed from Senior Manager to Director and led corporate communications and PR for Ola Electric, Ola Consumer and Ola Krutrim.Prior to Ola, Chauhan held agency leadership and client advisory roles, including Associate Vice President at Edelman and senior positions at 20:20 MSL, where he worked on mandates for brands such as Royal Enfield and Facebook.He also spent more than five years with Zeno Group, handling crisis communications, brand mandates and government relations for clients including Kia Motors, Boeing, McDonald’s, Ducati India, Hero Electric and Lenovo. Chauhan began his communications career with Boring Brands.

Leading global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) India has announced the appointment of Aditya Priyadarshan as Managing Director within its Business Transformation Services practice. Based in Mumbai, he will focus on large-scale operating model and organization structure transformation programs, spanning AI-powered transformation, growth strategy and digital transformation across the automotive, industrial and retail sectors.Mr. Priyadarshan brings over 20 years of consulting experience, advising large organizations on operating and organizational design, front-end transformation and zero-based transformation. He has led programs focused on aligning enterprise structures with growth priorities, reducing complexity, streamlining governance and accelerating AI-powered and digital transformation to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency.Prior to joining A&M, Mr. Priyadarshan spent 18 years with Accenture, where he most recently served as Managing Director and led the AI practice in India. Previously, he led the firm’s Retail practice, with responsibility for growing its consulting and digital business, and its Talent and Organization practice, supporting clients through large-scale transformation and organizational change.Himanshu Bajaj, Managing Director & Head – A&M India and GCC, said, “Indian businesses are increasingly looking to translate investments in AI and digital capabilities into tangible improvements in growth, productivity and organizational effectiveness. This requires bringing strategy, operating model and execution together rather than addressing them in isolation. Aditya’s experience across these areas adds further depth to our leadership team as we continue to strengthen A&M’s transformation capabilities in India.”Sameer Amte, Managing Director, Business Transformation Services, A&M India, said, “Transformation agendas across automotive, industrial and retail businesses are becoming increasingly interconnected, with operating model choices, organization design and technology adoption directly influencing competitiveness and performance. Aditya’s experience in leading complex transformation programs and applying AI to enterprise priorities complements our existing capabilities and strengthens our ability to support clients from strategy through execution.”Aditya Priyadarshan, Managing Director, A&M India, said, “Organizations today have a significant opportunity to use AI and digital technologies to rethink how they operate, organize and grow. Realizing that opportunity requires clarity on the operating model and disciplined execution across the enterprise. A&M’s hands-on, results-oriented approach provides a strong platform to help clients turn transformation priorities into measurable outcomes, and I look forward to working with the team and our clients in this next phase.”

Tilak Amitava Chowdhury has joined Angelique International Limited as Deputy General Manager (DGM), Corporate Communications.Chowdhury brings over 15 years of experience in corporate communications, with professional experience across the infrastructure, pharmaceutical, BPO and auto ancillary sectors.Prior to joining Angelique International, he was associated with AECOM, where he served as Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications.In his new role at Angelique International, Chowdhury will focus on strengthening the company’s corporate storytelling and communications around its business and leadership.

Tinu Cherian Abraham, Senior Director and Head of Global PR & Media Relations at UST, is set to move on from the technology services company, bringing to a close a significant chapter in a career spanning more than two decades across technology, consumer and multinational organizations.With 22+ years of professional experience, including 13+ years leading communications for multinational technology and consumer companies, Cherian has built a reputation as a senior communications leader with an unusually broad network spanning Indian and international media, corporate communications leaders, PR professionals and business executives.At UST, Cherian has led Global PR & Media Relations with a global team and agency network, overseeing communications across 30+ countries. His remit has included corporate reputation, executive visibility, thought leadership, media relations, public relations, government relations, crisis communications.Over the years, under his leadership, has generated impressive visibility and media coverage for organizations and senior executives across leading global and Indian media, including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, CNBC, BBC, Financial Times, The Guardian, Fortune, The Australian and Australian Financial Review, among others.Beyond international media relationships, Cherian has developed deep and long-standing relationships across India's media fraternity, particularly with senior journalists, editors and media leaders covering technology, business and corporate affairs. He also has also developed an extensive network across India's corporate communications and PR professionals called ICG, bringing together the community.His network and influence extend beyond traditional communications circles. Cherian has a demonstrated ability to connect people, build communities and create relationships that deliver value well beyond the conventional boundaries of a PR function.He is also known for bringing a strong commercial orientation to communications. During his career, he has helped create opportunities that have translated into multi-million-dollar business outcomes, combining relationship-building, communications expertise and an understanding of business priorities.Cherian's career has included leadership roles at UST, HARMAN and Ola, alongside earlier technology roles with organizations including Infosys, Cisco and Juniper Networks. His career began more than two decades ago and has evolved from technology into senior global communications and reputation leadership.As he prepares for his next chapter, Cherian is expected to explore senior leadership opportunities across Global PR, Corporate Communications, Communications, Public Affairs and broader strategic roles where his combination of international and Indian media relationships, corporate reputation expertise, industry network and commercial orientation can create significant value.People familiar with Cherian's work describe his strength as extending beyond communications: he brings together people, opportunities and organizations - and has the network and credibility to make those connections meaningful.Commenting on his upcoming move, Cherian said, "UST has been an incredible chapter in my career. I am grateful to my team, colleagues, leaders and agency partners around the world for their trust, collaboration and support. I'm excited about what lies ahead."His next move is expected to be announced in due course.

Prachi Kaushik has joined Schneider Electric as Deputy General Manager, Corporate Communications. She announced the move last week, marking a new chapter in her communications career.In her new role, Kaushik will work on corporate communications for Schneider Electric, a global energy technology company focused on electrification, automation and digital intelligence.Sharing the move, Kaushik said she was drawn to the breadth of Schneider Electric’s work across industries, businesses and homes, particularly its focus on efficiency and sustainability. She described the opportunity as a communications brief with significant scope for storytelling and narrative building.Kaushik joins Schneider Electric after serving as Head of PR and Integrated Communications at Signify, where she worked from January 2024 to August 2026. At Signify Greater India, she led PR and integrated communications, working with leadership on brand narrative, corporate reputation and industry positioning. Her responsibilities included media engagement, CEO and CXO communications, leadership visibility and integrated campaigns.Before Signify, Kaushik was Head of PR and Communications at Haier Appliances India, where she led corporate and brand communications across product innovation, corporate reputation and leadership visibility. She also built and institutionalised the communications function at the company.Prior to Haier, Kaushik spent close to three years at OPPO as Manager, Product PR, managing communications for its flagship smartphone portfolio, product PR strategy for launches and brand campaigns, as well as media and influencer engagement.Her earlier experience includes a stint at Genesis BCW as Account Manager, where she worked on the Maruti Suzuki account, managing PR strategy, media engagement, product launches, spokesperson strategies and story pipelines.Kaushik began her agency career at Edelman, working across automotive accounts including TVS, Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover and Tata Motors. She also spent time supporting Nissan’s communications team.She started her communications career at Perfect Relations in 2016, working across FMCG, CSR and corporate mandates and supporting media relations, campaign execution, strategic planning and client servicing for brands including Walmart, Dabur, Dish TV, Airtel and Google.

FleishmanHillard has appointed communications industry leader Bibi Hilton as UK chair of brand impact and EMEA managing director of brand, further strengthening the agency's senior advisory team.In her new role, Hilton—who commenced her duties on September 1—will deliver senior strategic counsel to clients, help drive the future growth of FleishmanHillard’s brand business across the UK and EMEA, and serve on the agency’s global brand impact leadership team. She joins from Omnicom sister agency Golin Ketchum, where she most recently served as chief client officer overseeing six international markets and an affiliate network, following a tenure as managing director of Golin London.Hilton’s extensive industry background also includes serving as CEO of the diversity and inclusion social enterprise Creative Access, holding senior positions at MullenLowe and Interpublic Group, and acting as president of Women in PR. She is a recipient of the PRCA’s Trailblazer Award.Commenting on her appointment, Hilton said: “FleishmanHillard has a clear ambition for the future, exceptional talent across its network and a strong reputation for helping clients navigate increasingly complex challenges. The opportunity to shape our brand impact offer, while working alongside colleagues and clients who are pushing the industry forward, was incredibly compelling.”FleishmanHillard UK CEO Marshall Manson praised Hilton's credentials, noting her history of advising senior executives and driving agency transformation. “As we continue to invest in our leadership team, strengthen our advisory capabilities and build for the future, Bibi’s experience, ambition and perspective will be invaluable,” Manson added.

Even Healthcare, the vertically integrated healthcare company combining insurance, hospitals and comprehensive care, has elevated Vignesh PV to Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). In his new role, Vignesh will lead Even’s commercial growth across its insurance and B2B businesses, with a focus on expanding insurer and broker partnerships, growing the corporate client base and strengthening the integration between Even’s insurance and healthcare offerings.As CCO, Vignesh will work across Even’s insurance and hospital businesses to drive growth across OPD, wellness and managed-care offerings, while building deeper relationships across the insurer, broker and corporate ecosystem. A key focus will be scaling Even’s presence in Bengaluru, where the company aims to capture 20% of the relevant market.Even’s OPD and wellness business has seen strong momentum, with its corporate book growing 100% over the last year. The business now covers 200,000+ lives across 350+ corporates, more than doubling its corporate client base from approximately 150 over the past year. Its portfolio includes organisations such as Godrej Group, Tally Solutions, PayU, Ultrahuman, Hyundai, Fiat, Marriott, to name a few, with growth supported by an expanding network of insurer and broker partnerships, including Go Digit, Aditya Birla Health Insurance and Care Insurance, among others.At the heart of Even’s proposition is its vertically integrated “payvider” model, which brings insurance and healthcare delivery together through its hospital network. By controlling costs within its own hospitals, Even is able to offer competitive healthcare and OPD plans while creating a connected experience across preventive care, OPD, diagnostics and hospitalisation. The model also allows Even to identify and address health risks earlier, while building stronger relationships with members through more frequent healthcare touchpoints.Commenting on the appointment, Vignesh PV, Chief Commercial Officer, Even Healthcare said, “The opportunity is to move healthcare from a fragmented experience to one where insurance and care work together seamlessly. Even’s integrated model gives us a strong foundation to build deeper partnerships with insurers, brokers and employers, while delivering greater value to members. Our focus will be on scaling this model and making Even the preferred healthcare partner for more organisations and their employees.”Mayank Banerjee, Co-founder, Even Healthcare, added, “Our insurance business has grown significantly over the last year, and we see an even larger opportunity ahead. Vignesh’s elevation reflects the importance of this business to Even’s next phase of growth. His focus on strengthening our insurer and broker relationships, while bringing our insurance and hospital businesses closer together, will be critical as we scale.”Even will continue to invest in its insurance, hospital and healthcare ecosystem, using its integrated model to deliver better access, outcomes and value for members while building a differentiated healthcare platform at scale.

AI lab Anthropic has appointed communications veteran Antonia Sanda to lead its communications strategy across Australia and New Zealand, marking a key milestone in the company's regional expansion.Sanda most recently managed APAC communications for global workforce management unicorn Deel for over four years, prior to which she served as Meta’s head of communications for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific from 2013 to 2022. During her tenure at Meta, she steered the tech giant through major crises, including the 2019 live streaming of the Christchurch mosque shootings and the 2021 news blackout response to the News Media Bargaining Code. Her extensive career also includes serving as head of communications at Australian internet portal Ninemsn.Reflecting on her transition to the AI sector following a company induction in San Francisco, Sanda shared on LinkedIn: "Just back from San Francisco, this week getting on the tools and finding my feet. There is so much to learn and I’m not yet across it all. What I have seen is that people are thoughtful and are asking the hard questions."The strategic hire follows a series of regional investments by Anthropic, which opened a Sydney office in April and appointed Theo Hourmouzis as general manager for Australia and New Zealand. Both Meta and Deel have given Sanda deep experience working with rapidly scaling digital entities; notably, Deel surpassed US$1 billion in revenue by 2025 and heavily invested in artificial intelligence.With over two decades of storytelling experience across global technology ecosystems, Sanda noted on her professional profile: "During this time, I’ve been lucky enough to work as a communications partner to some of the world’s most exciting companies and extraordinary minds. I’ve witnessed first hand the transformative good of technology and its challenges. I relish in telling positive narratives and finding fixes to the issues."

Ogilvy Thailand has appointed Mettipapan Tongton as its new market lead, succeeding retiring CEO Jiravara Virayavardhana following a tenure of more than 31 years.Taking up the role this month, Tongton steps in as WPP advances efforts to streamline and integrate operations across its agency network. With over 18 years of experience in marketing communications, Tongton has ascended through the ranks to serve on Ogilvy's executive board, most recently managing T&PM—a WPP agency collaborating with Ogilvy across APAC—and serving as managing director of Ogilvy One. Her expertise encompasses brand management, O2O communications strategy, customer experience, and martech-enabled CRM.In her new capacity, Tongton will partner with Ogilvy Thailand Chief Creative Officer Pete Thasorn Boonyanate and network leadership to drive creative growth and innovation via WPP Open, scaling integrated capabilities across brand strategy, communications, experience design, and public relations."I am deeply honoured to step into this leadership role," Tongton said. "While the agency landscape is changing faster than ever, Ogilvy Thailand's mission remains constant: to deliver creative excellence and drive growth for our clients."The transition marks the conclusion of a three-decade career for Virayavardhana, who reflected on her time with the agency as a privilege. Ogilvy Global CEO Laurent Ezekiel lauded Virayavardhana’s extraordinary tenure while praising Tongton as the ideal leader to guide the agency into its next chapter under WPP's borderless creativity framework.The leadership change coincides with broader integration efforts across Ogilvy’s advertising, PR, experience, consulting, and health divisions. Within Asia-Pacific, the network has expanded its earned media, social, and creator offerings under its Connected Impact strategy, deploying tools like Generative Impact, CompassAI, CultureBot, and its Believability Diagnostic Tool. Ogilvy Thailand continues to serve as a creative anchor in Southeast Asia, recognized for notable campaigns such as the Thailand Capital Market Development Fund's “Check, Check and then Check Before Investing” and Burger King's “The Real Burger”.

Current Global MENAT, part of Middle East Communications Network (MCN), has appointed Sim Devgun as Senior Account Director, as the agency continues to invest in its growing team and client portfolio.Sim brings close to a decade of PR experience across Dubai and London, specialising in creative consumer communications across travel, hospitality, F&B, entertainment and FMCG. Most recently at Umami Comms, she led communications for brands including talabat UAE, Diageo MENA and Rosewood Hotels across integrated campaigns, experiential launches, partnerships and reputation management.Peter Jacob, Managing Director, Current Global MENAT, said: “The last few months have been challenging for many across the region, so we’re especially proud to be continuing to be able to bring in fresh talent, energy and ideas. Sim brings strong international experience, brilliant strategic instincts and a real understanding of what makes work cut through in the region.”Sim said: “I wanted my next move to challenge me creatively and give me the opportunity to work on brands that genuinely shape the city and wider region. Current Global is without doubt one of the best agencies to be at with the calibre of the work, human-first culture and brilliant people right across the team. I’m super excited to get stuck in.”Now in its fourth year of operations in the region, the agency has continued to expand its team and client roster across the UAE and wider GCC, working with brands including Dubai Airports, Global Village, Dubai Tourism, OURA, Uber, New Balance, Heinz and Puck.(Source: telummedia)

Adfactors PR has named Nikita Sarwara as Senior Vice President, with responsibility for key client mandates across the firm’s corporate and brand communications work.In the new role, Sarwara will work across communication strategy, media engagement, thought leadership and crisis management. She will also be involved in long-term communication programmes for clients and work closely with senior teams within the firm.Sarwara has spent several years at Adfactors PR, during which she has worked with clients across different sectors and communication requirements. Her work has included corporate communications and brand PR, along with media outreach and digital storytelling. She has also been involved in developing thought leadership programmes for founders and senior business leaders.As part of her responsibilities as Senior Vice President, Sarwara will take on larger and more complex mandates while working with leadership and senior teams across client strategy and delivery. She will also contribute to proposals, pitches and communication programmes being developed for existing and prospective clients.The development comes as Adfactors PR continues to expand both its geographical presence and the range of communications capabilities it offers.The firm recently acquired a majority stake in Australian communications consultancy SenateSHJ, adding to its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Adfactors PR has also invested in WLDD, a creator-led marketing and content distribution company.The two moves reflect the firm’s growing focus on areas beyond conventional public relations, as communication programmes increasingly bring together corporate reputation, brand building, digital platforms and newer forms of content and audience engagement.Adfactors PR works with Indian and international companies, startups and institutions across sectors. Its work spans corporate reputation, brand communications and strategic communications counsel.In her new position, Sarwara will continue to work across corporate and brand communication mandates while taking on a wider role within the firm’s senior team.