One of the leading Hospitals chain based out of Gurugram, Artemis Hospitals has retained its partnership with Delhi based independent PR Consultancy, Grandeavour Communication (GC), for the third consecutive year. It's an achievement, a milestone, which not just marks a client-agency relationship, but a shared journey of trust, performance, and purpose in the evolving landscape of healthcare PR.GC has been working with Artemis Hospitals for the last two years with a consistent results driven approach. After these successful years, Artemis Hospitals has affirmed their trust and faith in the young team at Grandeavour Communication for its commitment, understanding of the sector, approach and fulfilling communication skills.Asgar Ali, Head - Sales & Marketing, Artemis Hospitals said, ?Ç£It's good to have an agency, who understand the requirements and are capable towards call to action mode. Grandeavour Communication, for the last two years have worked not just as an agency but as a partner, with full throttle support on all fronts. The team is highly motivated and always ready to take on challenges. Their positive mind-set and ability to think, plan, execute, and achieve truly sets them apart.?Ç¥Sharing the excitement and reflecting on the successful journey so far and the road ahead, Saachi Sagar, Sr. Consultant and Account Lead for Artemis at Grandeavour Communication said, ?Ç£Healthcare PR demands precision, empathy, and a deep understanding of both the sector and its sensitivities. With Artemis Hospitals, our goal has always been to communicate with purpose ?Çö whether it?ÇÖs amplifying the expertise of medical professionals or building trust with patients through authentic narratives. Over the last two years, we?ÇÖve not only driven visibility but helped shape a voice that resonates with both care and credibility. This continued partnership is a reflection of that shared vision, and we?ÇÖre excited to scale it further with impactful and responsible storytelling.""With this win for the third consecutive year, we have different plans to what we have been doing, we?ÇÖre geared to be even more proactive, targeting new heights, sharper outcomes, and smarter goals. The win comes with additional responsibilities and expectations, it isn?ÇÖt about the continuity, it?ÇÖs about commitment to get going, and evolve more as communication partners to Artemis Hospitals," says, Payel Banerjee, PR Director at Grandeavour Communication.In an industry as dynamic and demanding as healthcare, PR has evolved far beyond traditional boundaries. It faces unique challenges, especially with the shift towards the digital world, where amidst misinformation and fake news, the communication really needs to make a mark. Team GC is committed to embrace the challenges into opportunities and take this journey to another level i.e. PR 2.0.

Clarity Communication, a full-service PR agency based in India, has joined the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) to align more closely with evolving discussions between Indian and American business ecosystems.The IACC, established to facilitate trade, investment, and knowledge-sharing between India and the United States, brings together companies across sectors including manufacturing, technology, energy, healthcare, and services. Its forums, dialogues, and policy sessions are designed to support deeper engagement between private enterprises and regulatory bodies across both countries.For Clarity Communication, the move is intended to broaden perspective and gain access to more informed spaces of dialogue?Çöespecially as clients increasingly engage with cross-border markets, regulatory environments, and stakeholder expectations that extend beyond domestic boundaries.*We are delighted to have Clarity join us as a member.  The business of PR has become a lot more complex with the advent of social media and paid features.  Sowmya?ÇÖs presence within the chamber will provide guidance to members on this useful aspect of business development" said Stephen Mathias, Chairman IACC Karnataka?Ç£Our work often begins with context?Çöand being part of IACC helps us stay closer to the factors shaping that context,?Ç¥ said Sowmya Iyer, Founder and CEO of Clarity Communication. ?Ç£Whether it?ÇÖs a company entering a new geography or navigating a sensitive issue, the way we guide communication depends on how well we?ÇÖre tuned into the environment it operates in. This membership gives us another lens to view that environment, particularly as the India?ÇôU.S. business corridor becomes more layered.?Ç¥She added, ?Ç£It?ÇÖs not about more visibility for us?Çöit?ÇÖs about more perspective. We value forums that challenge assumptions, introduce nuance, and bring professionals into conversations that don?ÇÖt always happen on public platforms. That?ÇÖs the space we?ÇÖre looking to contribute to?Çöand learn from.?Ç¥Clarity Communication works with businesses across diverse industries, from early-stage ventures to established brands and MNCs offering strategic support in external communications, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. The firm?ÇÖs team operates out of New Delhi and Bangalore, with a distributed network of partners across other regions.The IACC membership is expected to provide access to curated policy briefings, sector-specific knowledge sessions, and introductions to relevant industry working groups. It also allows Clarity to listen in on conversations where strategy meets regulation?Çöhelping shape more grounded communication advice for clients with cross-border interests.

Veritas Reputation PR, specialists in financial and corporate communications, has secured the public relations mandate for Canara Bank, one of the leading public sector banks of India. The account was won following a multi-agency pitch that involved some of the top PR consultancies in India.As part of a three-year partnership, Veritas Reputation will drive strategic communications for Canara Bank to strengthen its positioning as a trusted, new-age bank delivering seamless banking experiences across India. The mandate includes corporate communications, investor relations and national media outreach across print, electronic, and digital platforms.Commenting on the partnership, Canara Bank, spokesperson said, ?Ç£Current dynamic financial landscape demands impactful communication to connect and engage effectively with all the stakeholders. We partnered with Veritas Reputation PR for their unmatched domain expertise, strong national media network and innovative approach. We are confident that our partnership will amplify our brand positioning and further solidify our thought leadership.?Ç¥Veritas Reputation PR will focus on enhancing the bank?ÇÖs corporate reputation by driving consistent messaging and building stakeholder trust through new-age PR strategies aligned with the evolving financial landscape.Hemant Batra, Managing Director, Veritas Reputation PR, added, ?Ç£We are proud to partner with Canara Bank, one of the most respected banks in India. This win reaffirms our strength in BFSI communications and our ability to deliver insight-led strategies and execute high-impact campaigns. We are excited to bring our national media network and contemporary ideas to strengthen the bank?ÇÖs ambitious vision.?Ç¥Veritas Reputation PR, running in its 8th successful business year, is known for its focus on the financial sector, combining sector knowledge and people-first culture to deliver strategic reputation management for top brands. Its diverse clientele spans all segments and sub-segments of the sector like banking & lending institutions, insurance companies, mutual fund & wealth managers, private equity, non-banking financial companies (NBFC) and new age fintech. The consultancy has won several prestigious recognitions since its launch. These include "Financial PR Consultancy of the Year" at IPRCCA 2022 by E4M, "Best Agency of the Year(Mid-size)" at Kaleido Awards 2025 by ET Brand Equity and ?Ç£Agency of the Year (Mid-size)?Ç¥ at Stakes Awards 2024 by Agency Reporter. It was recognised as the ?Ç£Agency of the Year (Bronze) at the global platform of Davos Communications Awards 2025.?Ç¥ Consultancy?ÇÖs unmatched work culture & employee-friendly policies has listed it, thrice in a row, in the ?Ç£Best Agencies to Work For (Asia-Pacific) 2022, 2023 & 2024?Ç¥ by Provoke Media and winning ?Ç£Culture of the Year (Bronze)?Ç¥ award at Campaign India PR Awards 2025.

Weber Shandwick, the earned-first global communications agency, has entered into a strategic partnership with ZENDATA Cybersecurity, a leading global cybersecurity firm, to deliver a fully integrated cyber crisis and resilience offering under Weber Advisory. The partnership combines deep expertise in cybersecurity and threat intelligence with industry-leading crisis ?+971 55 166 2557? and reputation management, offering clients a seamless solution to navigate today?ÇÖs complex risk landscape.This collaboration reflects a growing demand from boards, CEOs and communications leaders for a unified approach to cyber resilience, which addresses both the technical and reputational dimensions of modern crises. The Weber Shandwick?ÇôZENDATA Cybersecurity alliance will initially launch from regional hubs in London, Geneva and Dubai, with a view to serving clients across Europe, the Middle East and beyond.?Ç£This partnership is a powerful extension of Weber Advisory and a direct response to client needs,?Ç¥ said Alphonse Daudre-Vignier, Executive Vice President, Corporate, Weber Shandwick. ?Ç£Managing a cyber crisis has long required more than a technical fix; it?ÇÖs a test of leadership, trust and stakeholder confidence. By combining our strengths with ZENDATA Cybersecurity, we?ÇÖre giving clients the integrated capabilities they need to anticipate, manage and recover from digital threats with greater agility and authority.?Ç¥ZENDATA Cybersecurity brings cutting-edge cybersecurity services to the partnership, including proactive threat hunting, dark web monitoring, and rapid incident response. These technical capabilities will be integrated with Weber Advisory?ÇÖs proven crisis communications frameworks and strategic counsel.Steven Meyer and Isabelle Meyer, Co-CEOs of ZENDATA Cybersecurity, have noted a widespread and dangerous trend: "Companies consistently overestimate their readiness to face modern cyber threats. With this partnership, we?ÇÖre redefining what preparedness looks like. By fusing our cybersecurity expertise with Weber Shandwick?ÇÖs crisis communications leadership, we?ÇÖre helping organisations not just react, but respond with resilience and control.?Ç¥The offering will include joint cyber crisis simulations, scenario planning, real-time incident response and recovery support. The integrated solution builds on Weber Shandwick?ÇÖs recent launch of RADIUS ?Çô an operational AI-powered issues and crisis platform developed in collaboration with clients ?Çô now enhanced with ZENDATA Cybersecurity?ÇÖs cyber threat intelligence.

Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific is set to undergo a significant leadership change as Emily Poon steps down from her role as President after a distinguished 17-year career with the firm, including five years at the helm of the regional PR division. Her successor will be Richard Brett, who will expand his current responsibilities to include President of Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific, effective August 1st.Chris Reitermann, CEO of Ogilvy APAC, expressed gratitude for Poon's contributions. "Emily came to us in the beginning of the year with her desire to take a break and plan for the next chapter of her career," Reitermann stated. "During her tenure, Emily has been a driving force behind Ogilvy PR?ÇÖs strength and evolution in the region. Her leadership and dedication have shaped not only our agency?ÇÖs success and culture but also the careers of many who worked with her. We wish her all the best in her next adventures."Richard Brett Takes the HelmRichard Brett, currently CEO of Ogilvy PR ANZ and Ogilvy Health Australia, will assume his new regional role while continuing to be based in Sydney. Brett first joined Ogilvy PR ANZ in 2013 and was appointed CEO in 2018, later taking on leadership of Ogilvy Health Australia in 2021. He brings over 25 years of experience in communications consultancy and in-house leadership to his new position."I?ÇÖm honoured to step into this role and build upon the momentum Emily and our Asia and Australia teams have established,?Ç¥ said Brett. ?Ç£Ogilvy PR?ÇÖs legacy is built on a people-first culture, bold creativity and cutting-edge innovations, and I?ÇÖm excited to lead our talented teams into the future ?Çô both within Australia and New Zealand, and now the broader region."Brett also highlighted the collaborative opportunities his expanded role will present. "Continuing my leadership positions as CEO of Ogilvy PR ANZ and Ogilvy Health Australia in addition to my new role as President of Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific will also allow me to spend more time with all the talented teams across the business, providing an opportunity to foster even greater collaboration throughout the region,?Ç¥ he added.Reitermann underscored the significance of Brett's internal promotion. "As a planned succession, we are excited to have Richard, who has been leading a world-class PR operation in Australia and New Zealand, to lead Ogilvy PR Asia Pacific into our next phase of growth," he said. "We are always delighted when our capable internal talent can step up into larger leadership roles."Poon expressed full confidence in her successor, stating, "Richard is an extremely talented and values-driven leader, I couldn?ÇÖt be happier with him taking on the role. I will be cheering him and our exceptional team on as they soar to even greater heights."

PRIUS Communications, the flagship of the PRIUS Brand and Business Partner, recently created a new benchmark by amplifying a national wellness advocacy and brand campaign for Centre for Sight (CFS) ?Çö one of India?ÇÖs leading eye hospital chains ?Çö through a cutting-edge digital-first strategy. The leading PR company gave the campaign, featuring fitness icon Milind Soman, a robust push using a diversified suite of Digital PR tools. The campaign achieved a digital reach of over 17.5 million, amplified by numerous influencers. The digital PR tools deployed by Prius Brand and Business Partner included high-impact influencer collaborations, trending reels, targeted content on hyperlocal digital news platforms, integration with Bollywood and entertainment-centric digital pages, engaging blog narratives, and news articles across health and lifestyle domains. Launched across digital, print, outdoor, and in-clinic touchpoints, the campaign?ÇÖs core message blends emotional storytelling with preventive healthcare messaging. The campaign received exceptional amplification across top-tier entertainment, marketing, and hyperlocal digital platforms. It was prominently featured on PinkVilla, Mama Raazi, and Instant Bollywood, collectively delivering millions of views and engaging vast, diverse audience segments?Çöfrom Bollywood enthusiasts to marketing professionals. Hyperlocal lifestyle pages like What?ÇÖs Hot across Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Gujarat, and Gurugram fueled the campaign?ÇÖs regional penetration. With extensive influencer integration, the campaign successfully achieved pan-India digital resonance, ensuring strong recall not just in metro cities but also across key regional markets, reinforcing Centre for Sight?ÇÖs position as a national leader in eye health advocacy.Speaking on the healthcare campaign?ÇÖs impact, Baldev Raj, Founder and Chief, PRIUS Brand and Business Partner, said, ?Ç£We don?ÇÖt just amplify campaigns ?Çö we engineer movements. With Centre for Sight and Milind Soman, we successfully amplified a powerful narrative that transcends typical hospital advertising. This campaign redefines how health brands connect with aspirational India ?Çö through purpose, people, and platforms.?Ç¥?Ç£At PRIUS Communications, we bring a decade of objective-led experience in healthcare communications and amplifications with new age PR tools. We have successfully built brand narratives for hospitals, med-tech innovators, wellness chains, and global health campaigns,?Ç¥ added Baldev Raj. With this campaign Prius Communications also exemplifies its expertise in successfully executing brand and healthcare campaigns. Earlier, the company has successfully executed brand and PR strategies and campaigns for Apollo, Narayana Health, Medanta, JP Hospital, Paras Healthcare, SPARSH Hospitals, Enbio, Starkey, Apollo Spectra, among others. 

Brazen MENA, a leading PR agency in the Middle East with offices in Dubai and Riyadh, today announced a bold new rebrand as it celebrates its milestone: 10-year anniversary. The rebrand sees the launch of the agency?ÇÖs new, brand platform ?ÇÿB Ahead, B Brazen?ÇÖ and reflects Brazen MENA?ÇÖs evolution from PR agency to reputation consultancy and the best female owned in the Middle East* . With a view to driving greater Visibility, Reputation and Impact for its clients, ?ÇÿB Ahead, B Brazen?ÇÖ reflects a future-facing, client-first positioning, built around clear service specialisms. Created especially for the challenges brand?ÇÖs face in today?ÇÖs world ?Çô from fragmented attention, rising scepticism, and pressure to deliver ROI ?Çô the new positioning has been shaped in line with today?ÇÖs consumer who expects more; they?ÇÖre selective, sceptical and constantly choosing who to trust.  As such, brands must earn attention, shape narrative and prove value. ?ÇÿB Ahead?ÇÖ is Brazen MENA?ÇÖs solution ?Çô and serves to help clients move faster and think sharper, whilst staying one step ahead.The rebrand launches in silo with the agency?ÇÖs redefined, three-powered service model: B Social, B Lifestyle, B Corporate ?Çô specialised offerings ultimately designed to move the needle on visibility, sentiment and business results:  B Social ?Çô Strategy-led, insight-driven, social-first campaigns that convert attention into action. B Lifestyle ?Çô Consumer and culture-connected campaigns for lifestyle and experience-led brands. B Corporate ?Çô Reputation-first communications that build trust, credibility and influence across sectors.Managing Partner, Louise Jacobson, who is also a Provoke Innovator 25 ?Çô EMEA, and a Global Women in PR MENA Board Member comments: ?Ç£For the last decade, Brazen MENA has enjoyed numerous accolades. In that time, we?ÇÖve looked after 400+ brands across consumer, corporate and government sectors, won 70+ industry awards, and built long-term client partnerships based on our values of trust, performance and relevance.  ?Ç£The 10 year mark is not just an exciting milestone, but also a turning point ?Çô a chance not just to reflect, but a reset for what?ÇÖs next. We know the challenges brands face in today?ÇÖs complex, consumer driven world ?Çô and ?ÇÿB Ahead B Brazen?ÇÖ enables us to pinpoint them head on.  ?ÇÿB Ahead?ÇÖ is not just a brand line ?Çô it will serve as the lens for every strategy, every campaign and every result. Combined with our redefined, three-powered service offering, we?ÇÖre confident this rebrand will propel us forward for the next decade as we continue to expand across the GCC and beyond.?Ç¥Operating across the GCC with offices in Dubai and Riyadh servicing clients in the UAE, Qatar, KSA and the UK, Brazen MENA offers deep regional insight and bilingual team delivery. With proven results in building strategies for global and local brands, delivering press office, influencer and content execution across Gulf markets, the agency is not only the region?ÇÖs top 10 PR consultancies, but also recognised as the number one female-owned PR agency in the region.*

GCI Health, a global healthcare communications agency, has announced two key leadership appointments as it continues to expand its footprint across the Asia-Pacific region and other international markets.Kath Harrison has been appointed to the newly created role of President, International Markets, with a focus on Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and emerging growth regions. In this role, Harrison will spearhead the agency?ÇÖs strategic expansion and client engagement across dynamic, fast-evolving healthcare landscapes.Joining her leadership team, Eddie Morton has been named Regional Managing Director, Asia-Pacific. Based in Singapore, Morton will work closely with country leads and regional specialists to deepen GCI Health?ÇÖs integrated offering across communications, public affairs, and medical strategy. He will also support Harrison in driving business growth and operational excellence throughout the region.Formerly President, EMEA, Harrison has been instrumental in GCI Health?ÇÖs rapid expansion across Europe and the Middle East. Since relocating to Dubai in 2024, she has led initiatives that have strengthened the agency?ÇÖs presence in the region. Her new appointment reflects GCI Health?ÇÖs ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare transformation in Asia-Pacific and beyond, where demand for strategic healthcare communications is surging across both public and private sectors.?Ç£Increasingly, our global healthcare clients are organizing their business around international markets, where innovation is accelerating and new benchmarks are being set,?Ç¥ said Kristin Cahill, Global CEO, GCI Group. ?Ç£Asia-Pacific remains a major engine of growth and innovation in healthcare. With Kath?ÇÖs visionary leadership and Eddie?ÇÖs deep expertise in the region, we are well-positioned to help shape the future of health for our clients.?Ç¥Morton brings more than a decade of experience in health communications and public affairs across Asia-Pacific. He joins from Sandpiper Health, where he co-led the regional health practice and advised clients on stakeholder engagement, policy strategy, and reputation management. He began his career in journalism before leading government relations and policy at Members Health, the advocacy group for Australia?ÇÖs not-for-profit health insurers. Since transitioning to consultancy, he has guided a wide range of healthcare and life sciences clients in strengthening their voice and influence across the region.?Ç£Asia-Pacific represents one of the most opportunity-rich regions globally, as healthcare evolves from disease treatment to prevention,?Ç¥ said Eddie Morton. ?Ç£I?ÇÖm thrilled to join GCI Health and build on its legacy of excellence, helping our clients connect meaningfully with patients, providers, and systems.?Ç¥As part of this leadership transition, Rikki Jones, current President, Asia-Pacific, will be leaving GCI Health in July to pursue a new opportunity.

Shangri-La Dubai announced the appointment of Anita Drahos-Nambiar as the Director of Marketing and Communications. With over 15 years of experience in the luxury hospitality and tourism sectors across the Middle East and Europe, Anita is an accomplished marketing and communications professional, bringing a wealth of industry knowledge, creativity and expertise to the team.Throughout her career, Anita has held key leadership positions with some of the world?ÇÖs most globally recognised brands, such as Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, Hard Rock Hotel Budapest, Royal Caribbean Arabia and, most recently, IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City. At Royal Caribbean Arabia, she led the marketing for Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises in the Middle East, where she oversaw brand positioning and digital campaigns as well as public relations for the regional cruise market.In her portfolio of achievements, Anita has played an important role in hotel pre-openings, successfully executing brand repositioning initiatives and destination-led marketing. She has also successfully launched dining concepts in collaboration with world-recognised chefs, bringing unique culinary stories to life. Known for her creative storytelling and strategic planning, Anita has consistently enhanced brand visibility, strengthened media presence and driven meaningful engagement with audiences.With a background in International Hospitality Management and Marketing, Anita combines global expertise with a nuanced understanding of the regional market. Her appointment signals an exciting new chapter for Shangri-La Dubai, as the hotel continues to evolve its brand presence and guest experience in the competitive luxury landscape.

Umami Comms, a creative PR agency known for its work in food, beverage, and hospitality, has established Good Juju, a spin-off ?Ç£agency-within-an-agency?Ç¥ aimed at servicing lifestyle and design-led brands across sectors such as tech, apparel, automotive, and e sports.Founded in 2017 and operating with about 40 staff, Umami Comms has built its reputation through high-impact campaigns and brand collaborations in Dubai and the wider GCC region. Its portfolio includes major activations for venues like Galaxy Bar, Tashas Group, and LPM Doha?ÇÖs anniversary event.?Ç£We have a hungry, young and creative team that has been shaking things up for the last number of years, and I strongly believe that we are ready to go toe-to-toe with the big agencies in all sectors. This is intrapreneurship in action: it?ÇÖs an agency built by our team, for our team that wants to challenge the status quo. They?ÇÖre not content to watch brands that they love from other sectors go to another shop ?Çô they?ÇÖre stepping up, creating desire and taking the reins themselves, and I?ÇÖm here for it. I'm excited to see what we can do next,?Ç¥ said Colin Hutton, Founder of Umami Comms & Good Juju.Specialist boutique agencies are increasingly emerging across the Middle East. Earlier this year, PR veterans Nick Zonnios and Lauren Hunt launched Zonnios\&Hunt, a consultancy offering tight strategic counsel and storytelling services. Meanwhile, global networks continue to expand in the region. For example, DEPT opened its Bengaluru hub, and Ogilvy recently appointed Sharon Ooi as Chief Talent Officer for Singapore and Malaysia .Against this backdrop, Good Juju joins a growing cohort of agile, mid-sized consultancies pushing into diversified verticals?Çöleveraging flexible, creative teams to challenge larger network agencies for brand mandates in lifestyle, design, and tech.What Good Juju OffersWith a clear focus on experiential, design-driven communications, Good Juju draws on Umami?ÇÖs existing strengths in event curation, brand partnerships, and creative storytelling. The new arm positions itself to deliver:Good Juju is expected to roll out its first standalone campaigns by Q3 2025. With a youthful and dynamic leadership, the spin-off aims to rapidly carve out market share among lifestyle and design-led brands in the UAE and broader GCC region. It will compete for business with both international consultancies and emerging boutiques?Çöincluding those from PR veterans and global marketing networks.

Adfactors PR has announced the appointment of Hemant Gaule as Senior Vice President ?Çô Growth & Development Initiatives. In this newly created strategic role, Hemant will focus on multiple streams including building an AI-first work culture, strengthening the firm?ÇÖs value proposition, building new practices, and execute long-term plans for leadership development. Hemant will work closely with the founders and the leadership team to curate and execute programs aimed at future-proofing the organisation. The creation of the Adfactors Academy ?Çô a one-of-its-kind leadership fast-track initiative designed to identify, nurture, and elevate emerging leaders within the firm will be an important part of his mandate. While the Academy will offer structured learning interventions, its broader mission is to make the agency future-ready, equip consultants to manage complex, ever-evolving client briefs and contribute to institutional-scale growth.Madan Bahal, Co-founder and Managing Director of Adfactors PR, said, "I have known Hemant for more than a decade, and value his clarity of thought, professional integrity, and ability to design talent architectures for the future. I look forward to working closely with Hemant in enhancing Adfactors PR?ÇÖs relevance to its clients and internal stakeholders, in an ever-changing environment."Hemant Gaule stated, "Adfactors is a firm of deep purpose and vast potential, and it is an honour to be working with the founders and the CEO who have built a market-leading institution. This role is not just about leadership development - it is about unlocking a future where Adfactors PR stands as a global benchmark for consulting excellence. We will build the systems, structures, and spirit required to take the firm confidently into the next decade and beyond."An IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, Hemant brings a rare blend of business & academic grounding. He started his career in the management cadre of the RPG Group while for the last 10 years he served as the Director and CEO of the School of Communications and Reputation (SCoRe). Hemant has been recognised by multiple industry forums including ASEAN PR Network, Reputation Today, PRovoke Media and serves on the board of IABC Asia Pacific.This appointment reflects Adfactors PR?ÇÖs commitment to institutional capability building for serving the evolving needs of India Inc., and its long-term vision to lead the profession in both business impact and human capital development.

Publsh Media Group, a leader in strategic communications, media, and brand development, has officially signed on as the exclusive sales and PR partner for the Brand Me Summit 2025, taking place at Canadian University Dubai in City Walk from 22-23 November 2025.Following a successful 2024 edition that drew over 2,000 attendees, this year?ÇÖs summit is set to triple in scale, welcoming more than 6,000 entrepreneurs, investors, executives, content creators, students and media voices from across the region and beyond.Over two immersive days, Brand ME Summit will host hands-on workshops, cutting-edge panel discussions, premium networking sessions, and keynotes from internationally acclaimed industry leaders.Dubai?ÇÖs status as a global hub for entrepreneurship continues to grow, with a pro-business regulatory environment, visionary government initiatives, and a thriving ?Ç£can-do?Ç¥ spirit that empowers startups and global brands alike. Its seamless licensing systems, 100% foreign ownership policies, and innovation-centric infrastructure have made the city a magnet for bold thinkers and disruptive businesses.Sagar Chotrani, CEO & Co-Founder of Publsh, said: ?Ç£We recognise the transformative power of personal branding in building successful careers and ventures. Our partnership with Brand ME enables us to scale that impact and help individuals craft world-class identities in today?ÇÖs digital economy.?Ç¥Kushal Desai, Managing Director & Co-Founder of Publsh, added: ?Ç£This collaboration echoes our commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and professionals with the tools to establish trust, drive influence, and grow with purpose. Together, we?ÇÖre creating a platform for strategic connection and high-value engagement.?Ç¥Brand ME Co-Founders Ayman and Ghazi Al Yaman echoed the significance of this partnership. Ayman said: ?Ç£This summit is a catalyst for personal and professional growth. With Publsh on board, we?ÇÖre elevating the experience to new heights.?Ç¥Ghazi added: ?Ç£Publsh brings unmatched energy and expertise to a summit focused on equipping people with the future of branding and leadership.?Ç¥With personal branding now linked to increased revenue, stronger talent retention, and investor appeal, Brand Me Summit 2025 is poised to further position Dubai as the epicenter of innovation, opportunity, and entrepreneurial excellence.

Lorraine Martin, a long-standing and esteemed member of the Ogilvy family, has retired after an incredible journey spanning over 27 years. Having joined the organization on March 3rd, 1997, Lorraine has been a key pillar in leading PR and corporate activities. Known for her class, professionalism, and unwavering dedication, she consistently embodied the Ogilvy spirit and served as a true ambassador for the brand.Throughout her tenure, Lorraine made a significant impact ?Çö from running a successful PR business to achieving major milestones in corporate communications. She was not only a respected colleague but also a cherished friend and a source of inspiration to many.Ogilvy has expressed immense gratitude in an internal mail for her contributions and the positive influence she had on the team and culture. As she embarks on her next chapter, Lorraine leaves behind a lasting legacy and will always be remembered as a valued member of the Ogilvy family.

Public Relations has entered a bold new era. No longer just a back-office function, it has transformed into a strategic powerhouse shaping brand reputation and influence. Companies and leaders now see PR not as an afterthought, but as an essential force driving credibility, trust, and long-term success. The industry has undergone a radical shift with the rise of social media, fundamentally transforming PR strategies. Influencers now play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and engagement. PR is no longer confined to securing media visibility; it has expanded into a dynamic, results-driven discipline focused on meaningful interactions and measurable outcomes. With a younger, more digitally savvy audience emerging, PR professionals face new challenges. Brands and practitioners must be more agile, data-driven, and proactive in crafting business solutions that resonate with their audience. The future of PR lies in adaptability, authenticity, and strategic storytelling that build lasting trust and impact. In our exclusive weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully interacts with leading business leaders to gain their exclusive views and insights on various trends in the PR and communications industry.In conversation with Adgully, Anjali Digari, PR Group Head at Cha-Chi Communications, shares insights from her dynamic journey in the communications industry ?Çö from starting out as an intern to now leading strategy for 100+ brands across sectors. Known for her sharp storytelling instincts and deep understanding of media, Anjali reflects on building long-term journalist relationships, navigating crises with creativity, and balancing traditional PR with digital-first innovation, all while championing authenticity and team agility at the heart of her approach. From your first day in PR to now leading brand strategy across 100+ brands ?Çö what?ÇÖs been the most defining moment of your journey so far? I started as an intern at Ogilvy, but my true journey began with Cha-Chi in 2018. I had the opportunity to work with early-stage startups and underdog brands, many of whom we continue to work with even today. BEING part of their growth stories and watching them evolve into strong, recognizable names in their sectors has been the most fulfilling part of my career. There?ÇÖs nothing more rewarding than growing together and celebrating those milestones side by side. With so many verticals under your belt ?Çö F&B, D2C, Fashion, Tech, and more ?Çö how do you tailor communication strategies across such diverse industries without losing authenticity? It all begins with clarity on the PR objective, are we building awareness, attracting investors, enhancing founder visibility, or driving partnerships? Once that?ÇÖs locked in, everything else is layered on. Understanding the brand?ÇÖs tone, audience, and market nuances is critical. Authenticity comes from that foundation, from not forcing a template approach but crafting stories rooted in the brand?ÇÖs truth. Media relations remain at the heart of PR. How do you sustain strong relationships with journalists and editors in this fast-paced, content-saturated age? It takes time, consistency, and respect. Over the last 7 years, face-to-face media rounds, coffee catch ups, and just being genuinely curious about what they write have helped build trust. The real game-changer is relevance ?Çö when you pitch stories that align with a journalist?ÇÖs beat and interest, it signals that you?ÇÖve done your homework. That mutual respect goes a long way. Crisis communication can make or break a brand. Can you share a challenging moment where your team turned a potential crisis into a PR win? Earlier this year, Burger Singh?ÇÖs website was hacked by a Pakistani group, an unexpected situation that could have posed a reputational risk or triggered negative coverage. But instead of reacting defensively, we stayed true to the brand?ÇÖs irreverent, desi humour and responded with a witty, tongue-in-cheek message. The response struck a chord, gaining rapid traction across digital platforms. Interestingly, the brand?ÇÖs website received nearly double the usual traffic in the days that followed. What started as a crisis turned into a visibility boost, proving how tone-aligned, timely communication can turn disruption into a brand-strengthening moment. You?ÇÖve led both traditional and new-age communication efforts. What?ÇÖs your take on how influencer outreach and digital-first PR have reshaped brand reputation today? Traditional PR and digital outreach are no longer separate silos, they complement each other. While traditional PR helps build credibility through earned media and trusted publications, influencer campaigns can amplify messaging and take it straight to target communities. Together, they create a 360?? brand presence. One builds trust; the other fuels reach. What are some tools, routines, or mindsets you use to lead teams efficiently while balancing strategic planning, execution, and client management? Leading a team with diverse backgrounds, from ex-journalists to digital-first specialists, brings depth and agility to our work. To keep everyone aligned, I rely on clarity in briefs, consistent check-ins, and a culture of ownership. We regroup every morning to plan and prioritise, and review progress weekly. We?ÇÖve also integrated Cha-Chi Tech, an in-house tool that streamline processes, track tasks, and give real-time visibility into project status. Weekly or fortnightly check-ins with clients are built into our calendar ?Çö ensuring transparency, alignment, and momentum across every mandate. Automation has helped cut down repetitive work like reporting and coverage logs, allowing the team to focus on what really matters: strategy, storytelling, media relations and client impact. It?ÇÖs all about balancing structure with space to think. ??What advice would you give to young professionals entering the world of communications today? What should they unlearn and what should they double down on? Unlearn the idea that PR is all about glamorous events or instant visibility. Real PR is strategic, research-driven, and consistent. Double down on curiosity, read more, question more, learn how the media works. And don?ÇÖt underestimate the power of relationships with both clients and journalists. If not PR, what alternate career path could you see yourself thriving in ?Çö and why? Something creative for sure! If not PR, probably as a fashion designer or a content creator. Both let you build something original, stay culturally connected, and keep the work as dynamic as the world around you. 

Zuno General Insurance, formerly Edelweiss General Insurance, has appointed Hashtag Orange (Mumbai) as its communications agency after a multi-agency pitch.This collaboration comes at a pivotal moment in Zuno?ÇÖs journey, as the brand continues to redefine how general insurance connects with today?ÇÖs digitally savvy, younger audiences. Hashtag Orange will be responsible for managing both internal communications covering HR, employee engagement, and employer branding, and external communication, including product launches, and brand campaigns. Demonstrating the partnership's early momentum, Zuno and Hashtag Orange celebrated World Music Day with a genre-defying musical campaign. The brand launched 'Hai Safar Ye Chill Wala'?Çöan original track reimagined in six distinct musical genres using AI, allowing listeners to choose their 'drive vibe.'The agency had previously conceptualized and executed the much-talked about-Vivaan campaign, with films directed by Gaurang Menon, which made a strong mark in the insurance category last year.Ketan Mankikar, Marketing Head at Zuno, shared his thoughts on the partnership:?Ç£We, at Zuno, are on a journey to reimagine insurance to make it easy, friendly, and transparent. With Hashtag Orange, we?ÇÖve found a partner that truly understands our brand ambition and the importance of crafting communication that?ÇÖs both consistent and compelling. Their strategic depth, creative edge, and understanding of our transformation journey made them the natural choice for this mandate.?Ç¥Mukesh Vij, Founder & CEO, Hashtag Orange, expressed his excitement:?Ç£Zuno is challenging conventions in the insurance space and that?ÇÖs exactly the kind of brief that excites us. This partnership goes beyond campaigns; it?ÇÖs about co-creating a brand story that reflects people?ÇÖs lives, aspirations, and expectations in today?ÇÖs world. From core brand messaging to integrated outreach across consumer and employee ecosystems, we?ÇÖre eager to shape something truly resonant and future-forward.?Ç¥Gaurang Menon, Regional & Creative Head West, Hashtag Orange, added:?Ç£This collaboration is about building from the inside out. Zuno has given us the creative freedom to think big, act meaningfully, and connect across touchpoints, whether it?ÇÖs shaping a strong employer brand or launching breakthrough marketing. It?ÇÖs the kind of mandate every creative team hopes for: brave, strategic, and full of opportunity.?Ç¥More than a client-agency relationship, this is a creative collaboration grounded in purpose. Together, Zuno and Hashtag Orange aim to craft a brand journey that speaks not only to consumers, but also to employees, partners, and communities alike.

Sony Middle East and Africa has appointed Ruder Finn Atteline, a global integrated marketing and communications consultancy and the MENA arm of the Ruder Finn group, to manage its regional PR communications mandate across the Middle East. The agency will lead strategic PR Communications for Sony?ÇÖs consumer electronics division, covering Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Egypt.Ruder Finn Atteline?ÇÖs appointment includes handling Sony?ÇÖs BRAVIA televisions, home audio systems, advanced digital imaging products, audio solutions such as the newly expanded ULT Power Sound series, and the INZONE range.The partnership follows Ruder Finn Atteline?ÇÖs recent brand refresh and strategic senior appointments, strengthening the agency?ÇÖs expertise in consumer and corporate communications.Sophie Simpson, Managing Director of Ruder Finn Atteline ?Çô MENA, commented: ?Ç£Sony is a brand that resonates globally, but also connects deeply with audiences here in the region. This partnership reflects the kind of work we want to do more of ?Çô bold, meaningful, and built on shared ambition, while also fulfilling Sony?ÇÖs purpose to fill the world with emotion through the power of creativity and technology[1]. As we continue to expand our presence in the Middle East & North Africa, our focus remains on creating real impact for all our clients. Collaborating with iconic brands like Sony propels us closer to our goal of shaping the future of communications through culture and creativity.?Ç¥Jobin Joejoe, Managing Director, Sony Middle East and Africa, added: ?Ç£At Sony, our ambition is fueled by a relentless drive to inspire and fulfil the curiosity of our audiences across the MENA region. We believe in creating meaningful experiences that go beyond technology. Experiences that connect with people on a deeper, more personal level.  Our partnership with Ruder Finn Atteline is a natural extension of this vision. As an agency with strong regional insight and a grasp of evolving market dynamics, Ruder Finn Atteline brings both local relevance and strategic expertise to the table. Just like our People Philosophy, ?ÇÿSpecial You, Diverse Sony?ÇÖ this further embodies our inclusive approach to craft integrated, high-impact communications strategies to showcase the depth, diversity, and values in the region.?Ç¥As a creative entertainment company, Sony continues to shape cultural and immersive experiences across the region through its innovation in home entertainment, personal entertainment, digital imaging gaming, and storytelling. In recent months, the brand has spotlighted several key launches, including new home and personal entertainment offerings at the W Hotel in Abu Dhabi in April, and the launches of the REON Pocket Pro and flagship noise cancelling headphones WH-1000XM6 in May.With a multitude of launches in the pipeline, Sony remains committed to delivering inspiring content and cutting-edge technology across the region. Ruder Finn Atteline will continue to support Sony?ÇÖs story through integrated communication strategies rooted in the Middle East market, evolving entertainment trends, and shifting digital consumption patterns to keep connected with its customers.

Strategic communications and media outreach agency Studio Talk won the gold at the 2025 PRWA Excellence Awards, in Tokyo. It won the PRWA Excellence Awards 2025, after being shortlisted among seven international campaigns backed by top global PR agencies.Studio Talk scooped this honour for the media outreach for the path-breaking Alli Serona Campaign in Bengaluru. This was the very first time that Studio Talk competed in any category and the PR World Alliance noted this achievement in a LinkedIn post, "Big congratulations to our new member Studio Talk who took home the win at their first GA!"Studio Talk's work for the Purpose campaign - Alli Serona, a collective in Bengaluru, Karnataka, focused on the struggles of underserved women from the informal workforce. The name itself ('Let's meet there?ÇÖ) in Kannada, underlines the importance of spaces where women can connect and advocate for change in areas like public transportation.Studio Talk works extensively in the Social Development sector, alongside a strong presence in Aviation, Education, Consumer Durables, Technology, Publishing, Entertainment, and Live Events. Operating across India, the UAE, and Africa, their diverse portfolio reflects a deep understanding of both mission-driven initiatives and dynamic commercial industries helping them deliver impactful communication and engagement strategies tailored to each domain and region.Managing Partner Mahrukh Inayet says: "We are thrilled to have won for this particular project because it took us to the heart of an important story where our team interacted with civil society organizations, artists, designers, and think tanks, to amplify the voices of informal workers and bring their perspectives to the forefront of city planning and development."Managing Partner Vikram Sawant adds: "As an agency with an international footprint, it is very important for us to also stay connected with grassroots issues. We will continue to bring a global as well as rooted perspective on developing stories across multiple content streams. We hope to stay ahead of the learning curve and adapt to evolving models of information and communication."The other two finalists with stellar campaigns were; The Bepublic Group from Brussels and Denterlein from Boston.The PR World Alliance is an international network of premier communication agencies.(Image: Centre Studio Talk Managing Partners Mahrukh Inayat (Black Top) Vikram Sawant (Brown Jacket) wins Gold at the PRWA Excellence Awards 2025 in Tokyo)

Huawei, the leading global provider of information and communications technology infrastructure and smart devices, has appointed Memac Ogilvy as the public relations partner for its two core businesses: Huawei Consumer Business Group (CBG) for UAE, and Huawei Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Middle East.The partnership comes as Huawei pushes the boundaries of connectivity and innovation in line with its mission to bring digital to every person, home and organisation for a fully connected, intelligent world.Memac Ogilvy will provide the full suite of PR services for the two Huawei businesses, including communications strategy, media relations, thought leadership, influencer engagement and campaign development to drive Huawei?ÇÖs ambitious growth agenda and future-focused objectives in the region.Leveraging its integrated communications expertise and strong media network, Memac Ogilvy will deliver bold, impactful communications strategies that engage consumers, inspire industry stakeholders, and strengthen relationships with strategic partners across the UAE.Saad Abu Touq, Managing Director ?Çô PR, UAE, at Memac Ogilvy, said: ?Ç£Huawei has cemented its position as a global innovation leader, shaping how people connect, communicate, and experience the world. In the UAE, the brand continues to evolve, expand and inspire customers and businesses across every touchpoint. We are honoured to be part of Huawei?ÇÖs incredible growth journey and will focus on delivering integrated storytelling and borderless creativity, two offerings that set us apart. This strategic partnership is another opportunity to push the boundaries of brand communications, drive meaningful engagement and support Huawei in realising its ambitious vision in building a fully connected, intelligent world.?Ç¥Rima Taha, Director of PR & Communications, Middle East & Central Asia at Huawei ICT and Saeed Klaib, Director of Communications and Public Relations at Huawei CBG, said ?Ç£Huawei CBG and Huawei ICT are proud to appoint Memac Ogilvy as their strategic communications partner. With a deep understanding of our brand ethos and a proven ability to translate vision into impactful storytelling, Memac Ogilvy is uniquely positioned to bring our narrative to life for audiences in the UAE and beyond. Their exceptional track record, creative excellence, and regional expertise make them the ideal partner to amplify Huawei?ÇÖs presence and foster deeper, long-term engagement with key audiences across the region.?Ç¥Huawei CBG is behind some of the world?ÇÖs most popular smart devices ?Çö from smartphones and wearables to tablets and cloud services ?Çö creating seamless, intelligent experiences for millions of users. Renowned as one of the top global smartphone manufacturers, Huawei CBG consistently delivers exceptional user experiences across its device ecosystem.Huawei?ÇÖs ICT division powers digital transformation through AI, cloud computing, and connectivity with a focus on cybersecurity & talent cultivation, underlining the company?ÇÖs vision for a fully integrated, intelligent future.

Secret Sauce, a national Corporate Reputation, PR and Communications agency has been appointed as the PR and Corporate Reputation partner for Bindu Fizz Jeera Masala, a leading Food and Beverage Company from Karnataka with a legacy of 25+ years. This announcement comes at a time when House of Bindu is aiming at a nationwide expansion with their flagship brand Bindu Fizz Jeera Masala and Secret Sauce shall be instrumental in driving this growth through a focused corporate reputation and PR strategy at a national level. The partnership with House of Bindu will focus on enhancing their brand reputation, driving thought leadership initiatives, and executing strategic PR campaigns.With ethnic flavors gradually becoming the choice of the younger generation and capturing hearts, organizations such as SG Corporates which are poised to focus on their next phase of growth with a nationwide rollout of their popular Bindu Fizz Jeera Masala ?Çô across the country.To accelerate its national presence, Bindu will create a stronger connect across consumers and cultures in India and drive a nationwide appeal in positioning a Jeera drink for the youth especially the GenZ.Megha Shankar, Director Strategy & Marketing, SG Corporates which owns House of Bindu and Praveen Capital, said, "Bindu with its rich legacy in South India & as a proud Make in India brand, is now set to expand nationwide, introducing our much-loved Bindu Fizz Jeera Masala to a wider audience while staying true to our roots. Our focus is bridging tradition with innovation to make the brand relevant for today?ÇÖs Gen Z and millennial consumers. With this partnership, we aim to create strong consumer connections and establish Bindu as one of the leading beverage brands across India."Shalini Gupta, Founder & Director, Secret Sauce Communications Pvt Ltd, said, ?Ç£We are happy to partner with House of Bindu which has a rich legacy and strong consumer connect. With our unique narrative, thought leadership and PR approach in crafting an identity we hope to manage perceptions and thus help them gain new market success. This association is a testimony to the dedication and impact-driven approach of our team. Our goal is to partner and position House of Bindu as a leading food and beverage company with innovative ethnic flavors and strong sense of the customer pulse across India?Ç¥SG Corporates is rooted in the entrepreneurial journey of Sathya Shankar, which began in 1987 with an automobile spare parts shop in Puttur. Recognizing business opportunities, Mr. Shankar expanded into auto finance, establishing Praveen Capital in 1994. His foray into manufacturing started with Bindu Mineral Water, a packaged drinking water brand, which led to the formation of SG Corporates and paved the way for its presence in the beverage industry. Today, SG Corporates encompasses numerous beverages brands and extends beyond beverages into organic farming, fruit processing, and packaged foods through Megha Fruit Processing Private Limited or House of Bindu. The overarching mission of the SG Group is to deliver "the taste of happiness" to its consumers. The Company is in existence since 20+ years and has a robust distribution network covering almost all Southern States. In addition, over last two years the company has expanded its distribution PAN India in the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Orissa, West Bengal, further to Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh. The Company has a network of 20+ warehouses spread across 7 states, 1,500+ distributors and over 200,000+ Active Outlets. The Company?ÇÖs products are well accepted and are known for their quality, taste and customer service. This is in line with the promoter?ÇÖs vision of SG ?Çô ?Ç£pure taste of happiness?Ç¥. 

PRandit Solution Pvt. Ltd. has been awarded the strategic communications mandate for Strrot, one of India?ÇÖs leading destinations for global luxury interiors and design collectables. The partnership is poised to shape the brand's public narrative as it continues to redefine the intersection of design, art, and lifestyle in the Indian market.This collaboration builds on a long-standing professional association between PRandit and Strrot?ÇÖs founder, Sidhant Lamba, and will encompass media strategy, editorial curation, and brand storytelling. The engagement marks a significant milestone in PRandit?ÇÖs growing luxury portfolio, further strengthening its design vertical.Founded on the philosophy of ?Ç£living with art,?Ç¥ Strrot is home to a carefully curated collection of rare and collectable objects, furniture, and d??cor pieces. Its flagship store in New Delhi showcases four international design houses:Seletti (Italy) ?Çô Celebrated for its whimsical, surreal take on pop culture, Seletti offers functional pieces that blend art with irreverence, resonating with India?ÇÖs emerging Gen Z luxury buyers seeking bold statements.Driade (Italy) ?Çô A visionary in avant-garde design, Driade brings contemporary Italian furniture that celebrates innovation and individuality, aligning with India?ÇÖs fast-evolving design sensibilities.Lotus Arts de Vivre (Thailand) ?Çô Known for its handcrafted statement pieces that incorporate exotic materials like scarab wings, ebony, and abundant use of sterling silver, this heritage house reflects traditions of intricate craftsmanship and a flair for maximalist design.Ebano (Spain) ?Çô Debuting in India through Strrot, Ebano presents sculptural artworks meticulously crafted from semi-precious stones like amethyst, pyrite, and quartz. These timeless creations embody refined elegance and deeply resonate with themes of passion, purity, and personal connection, while reflecting the country?ÇÖs rich spiritual and artistic traditions.In addition to its international selections, Strrot also offers a bespoke home collection, ranging from one-of-a-kind furniture to curated d??cor accessories?Çöeach designed to complement refined Indian homes and lifestyle spaces.PRandit, known for its bold and narrative-led approach, will not only lead Strrot?ÇÖs media outreach but also serve as a strategic partner across brand positioning and storytelling. As a leading PR firm working across emerging and premium sectors, PRandit is increasingly partnering with design-led brands to shape how they are perceived, merging deep sector understanding with editorial finesse.Shalu Jha, Co-founder of PRandit, added, ?Ç£Strrot represents a rare confluence of global artistry and Indian ethos. We?ÇÖre excited to build compelling editorial conversations around its evolving design language. Having worked with Sidhant before, this collaboration is rooted in a mutual commitment to excellence and aesthetics.?Ç¥Sidhant Lamba, Founder of Strrot, said: ?Ç£At Strrot, we don?ÇÖt just sell products?Çöwe curate stories. Every object we house reflects an emotion, a history, and a craft. With PRandit, we have a partner who understands the nuance and narrative behind each of these.?Ç¥As Strrot prepares to unveil the Ebano sculpture collection this June, it signals the beginning of a new phase in the brand?ÇÖs India journey?Çöone that will be marked by limited-edition showcases, deeper storytelling, and immersive luxury retail experiences.

India is not just a country?Çöit?ÇÖs a continent in disguise. With a population of 1.4 billion spread across 28 states, 8 union territories, 22 official languages, and hundreds of dialects, India doesn?ÇÖt function as a single market but as a collection of diverse mini-markets. For global brands, this complexity presents both a daunting challenge and a game-changing opportunity.Recognizing the need for nuanced, locally rooted communication strategies, Bloomingdale Public Relations?Çöone of India?ÇÖs leading communications consultancies and the India partner of global network IPREX?Çöhas released a white paper titled ?Ç£Decoding India: The PR Landscape 2025.?Ç¥ The paper provides a deep dive into India's multilayered communications environment, shedding light on the socio-political, economic, and cultural forces that shape how stories are consumed and influence is earned.Launched during a closed-door webinar hosted by IPREX and moderated by Harri Kammonen, EMEA President of IPREX and CEO of Finland-based agency Manifesto, the white paper positions public relations not as a support function but as a core business imperative in India?ÇÖs high-stakes, dynamic market.?Ç£Today, PR in India is far more than press releases and events,?Ç¥ said Vikram Kharvi, CEO of Bloomingdale PR and author of the white paper. ?Ç£From regional influencer campaigns to CSR storytelling and crisis communication, brands must develop cultural intelligence and digital agility to resonate locally and scale nationally.?Ç¥With over 806 million internet users and 25 million more joining each year, India is among the world?ÇÖs fastest-growing digital economies. But as Kharvi points out, ?Ç£Digital India is not homogenous.?Ç¥ From hyper-local memes to regional language reels, what goes viral in one state may be irrelevant in another. This is where public relations?Çögrounded in local insight and cultural empathy?Çöplays a critical role.India?ÇÖs demographic skew adds another layer of complexity. With more than 50% of the population under 30, the youth are not just consumers?Çöthey are creators, critics, and cultural barometers. For brands, this means staying agile, authentic, and constantly in conversation.?Ç£At IPREX, we?ÇÖve seen that the biggest barrier?Çöand opportunity?Çöfor businesses entering new markets is understanding local business culture,?Ç¥ said Anu Gupta, APAC Regional President of IPREX and Director at APRW. ?Ç£That?ÇÖs why our global network focuses on local expertise. Asia Pacific, and especially India, represents a high-growth region with enormous cultural depth.?Ç¥The white paper serves as a strategic roadmap for brands aiming to break through in India?Çönot just by showing up, but by standing out. It outlines how region-specific storytelling, credible advocacy, and long-term reputation-building are key to success.

Centurion Properties, a real estate developer in Dubai, has appointed Media Mantra Consulting as its official PR and communications partner. The strategic collaboration aims to amplify Centurion?ÇÖs brand visibility, strengthen its digital presence, and support its growth trajectory across the UAE?ÇÖs dynamic real estate sector.Under the new mandate, Media Mantra Consulting will deliver a full spectrum of communication services including strategic PR counsel, media outreach, brand reputation management, digital communications, and crisis preparedness. The agency will work closely with Centurion Properties to highlight its premium developments and thought leadership in urban innovation.Commenting on the partnership, Udit Pathak, Founder Director, Media Mantra Consulting, said: "We are thrilled to partner with Centurion Properties, a brand that embodies design excellence and urban foresight. Our integrated communication approach will help build deeper engagement with stakeholders and position Centurion as a leading voice in the Dubai real estate narrative."Founded in 2013, Centurion Properties has earned a reputation for building sustainable, design-forward communities, with successful projects such as Sola Residences and Flora Isle. With five projects already delivered, five more in development, and a robust pipeline of over ten future launches, Centurion is rapidly reshaping Dubai?ÇÖs skyline.Moksh Garg, Chief Marketing Officer, Centurion Properties, added: "Media Mantra?ÇÖs expertise in real estate PR makes them the ideal partner as we continue to scale. Their strategic insight and communication acumen will be crucial in telling our brand story and engaging with our customers and stakeholders effectively."This partnership also reaffirms Media Mantra Consulting?ÇÖs growing footprint in the region, especially within the real estate communications space. The agency?ÇÖs Dubai office has become a go-to partner for brands seeking to build resonance and relevance in the competitive Gulf market.

Esha Ahuja has announced her new role as Assistant General Manager - Corporate Communications at Blue Star Limited, a leading provider of air conditioning and commercial refrigeration solutions in India.Esha shared the update via LinkedIn, expressing her excitement about the new chapter in her professional journey. Prior to this, she served as Deputy Manager ?Çô Corporate Communication & Branding at Bosch, where she played a significant role in driving brand visibility and strategic communication initiatives.With a strong background in corporate storytelling, branding, and stakeholder engagement, Esha?ÇÖs appointment marks a key addition to Blue Star?ÇÖs communications leadership as the company continues to strengthen its corporate reputation and brand presence.

Liminal Custody, a trusted name in digital asset custody and wallet infrastructure, is proud to announce the appointment of Aanandita Bhatnagar as Associate Vice President and Global Head of Brand and Communications, and Arnab Das will lead India Communications and Corporate Affairs.Aanandita joins the global communications team of Liminal from Singapore, where she will lead branding and communications efforts across all global markets. Complementing her role, Arnab Das will lead India market communications and corporate affairs, strengthening Liminal?ÇÖs local positioning and regulatory engagement in one of its most critical growth markets.A seasoned communications professional with 23 years of expertise, Aanandita has built and led high-impact branding, transformation, and reputation campaigns for global technology giants including NetApp, Cisco, and Texas Instruments. She has played a key role in elevating employer brands, building executive visibility, and leading award-winning storytelling initiatives across diverse markets.Arnab Das is a seasoned journalist and communications leader with 27 years of experience spanning broadcast media, fintech, blockchain, and crypto. He began his career with leading media organizations such as NDTV, India Today, CNBC, and Bloomberg UTV, before transitioning into leadership roles in fintech and Web3, including at platforms such as CoinDCX and Tap Invest. Arnab has consistently driven brand visibility, built strategic alliances, and spearheaded corporate reputation efforts with a focus on regulated market growth.?Ç£We are thrilled to welcome Aanandita and Arnab to the Liminal team. Their extensive experience in integrated marketing communications and reputation management across the technology and finance sectors is precisely what we need to enhance the clarity and recognition of our brand. Under their leadership, we look forward to significantly boosting our market presence,?Ç¥ said Mahin Gupta, Founder of Liminal.Speaking on her appointment, Aanandita said, ?Ç£I am eager to build a globally recognized brand for Liminal that is synonymous with security and trust in the evolving Web3 landscape.?Ç¥?Ç£India is fast becoming the epicenter for global tech innovation, products and service development hub and for us it goes the same. We?ÇÖre committed to strengthening this position while driving compliance-first, regulatory-aligned growth through institutional engagement?Ç¥ said Arnab.Aanandita and Arnab?ÇÖs appointment reflects Liminal?ÇÖs focus on combining innovation with credibility in its mission to secure the digital asset economy. As the company expands into new markets, their leadership will play a critical role in strengthening Liminal?ÇÖs reputation among regulators, partners, and customers worldwide.

Public Relations has entered a bold new era. No longer just a back-office function, it has transformed into a strategic powerhouse shaping brand reputation and influence. Companies and leaders now see PR not as an afterthought, but as an essential force driving credibility, trust, and long-term success. The industry has undergone a radical shift with the rise of social media, fundamentally transforming PR strategies. Influencers now play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and engagement. PR is no longer confined to securing media visibility; it has expanded into a dynamic, results-driven discipline focused on meaningful interactions and measurable outcomes. With a younger, more digitally savvy audience emerging, PR professionals face new challenges. Brands and practitioners must be more agile, data-driven, and proactive in crafting business solutions that resonate with their audience. The future of PR lies in adaptability, authenticity, and strategic storytelling that build lasting trust and impact. In conversation with Adgully, Surabhi Trivedi, Founder of Media Maniacs Group, shares her perspective on how public relations has transformed from being media-centric to becoming a powerful tool for strategic storytelling, reputation management, and brand-building in the digital age. With over 15 years in the industry, Trivedi highlights the importance of authenticity, data-driven insights, and hyper-local narratives in PR today. She also delves into how Media Maniacs is navigating challenges like influencer fatigue, real-time crisis communication, and the ever-expanding digital noise?Çöwhile continuing to build trust and lasting brand equity across diverse markets. How has the role of PR evolved in the last decade, especially with digital and social media blurring the lines between marketing, content, and communication? When I began in PR 15 years ago, it was a world defined by print coverage - success was measured in column inches. Today, everything has changed ?Çö digital platforms, social media and the influencer ecosystem have changed the way we engage with audiences. PR is no longer just a press release, or media placement, and is not limited to a press release and media placement, it is storytelling, thought leadership, real-time management of reputation, and content strategically planned across channels. PR has evolved to encompass all aspects of media, including, media outreach, crisis communications, influencer partnerships and more. However, there is a gap ?Çö many people still hold the perspective that PR means just media coverage. The value of PR is the ability to build credibility, trust and long-term brand reputation. It is time we change the narrative. Crisis communication has become a core part of PR today. What?ÇÖs your go-to approach when a brand is under public scrutiny? Crisis communication is a significant component of public relations in a fast-paced digital landscape. Our role as consultants is to buffer client reputations during high-pressure situations. The first step is to understand the full scope of the situation, including what happened, why it happened, and how the brand sees it internally. If the brand's actions are justified, we would recommend a quick turnaround with transparent and clear communications. However, if there was a misstep, we would need to steer clear of defensiveness, and leverage positive and honest conversations that elicit empathy. Rather than bury the situation, there is an opportunity to re-establish the consumer's trust in the brand by recapping the brand values, previous contributions made before the situation occurred, and attention towards moving forward. In a crisis, consistency, clarity, and integrity are imperative. Many clients still see PR as just media visibility. What misconceptions about PR do you encounter most often?Çöand how do you address them? Sure, media visibility comes primarily from PR efforts ?Çö but that?ÇÖs only one way to think about PR. There are a lot of misconceptions including thinking PR is only about ?Çÿgetting featured?ÇÖ. PR is a strategic communications tool and it's about managing perception, establishing credibility, and establishing a long-term brand presence. To that end, PR today is about storytelling from multiple touch points, including newer platforms like podcasts, LinkedIn, YouTube, and influencer partnerships ?Çö not just traditional media. For example, startups launching new products and creating buzz has happened before advertising budgets existed. We can see from them that creating a compelling story, with earned presence, builds trust and creates influence. In a world driven by instant gratification, how can PR professionals create campaigns that build lasting brand equity rather than momentary buzz? In a world of instant gratification and ?Çÿviral?ÇÖ trends, brand equity does not happen overnight. For PR professionals, the magic is in the brand storytelling, the authentic messaging, and the value-driven content. Rather than getting caught up in the latest trend, we concentrate on brand campaigns that represent the brand?ÇÖs values, creating trust and deepening the audience?ÇÖs relationship with the brand. Because, at the end of the day, real impact does not arise from reach alone ?Çö it arises from relevance. What are some challenges PR agencies face today that weren?ÇÖt as pressing five years ago? How is Media Maniacs adapting to these changes? Key Challenges PR Agencies Face Today: Cutting through digital noise in a world overloaded with platforms and content. Meeting audience expectations for real-time, multi-channel engagement. Balancing AI-driven efficiency with the need for ethical, meaningful storytelling. Navigating influencer fatigue and rising demand for authenticity. Managing growing scrutiny around data privacy and ESG transparency. Responding to crises in real time as news breaks 24/7 across social media. How Media Maniacs Is Rising to the Challenge: Blending PR with digital power through integrated, cross-platform campaigns. Using AI for insights, not shortcuts ?Çö keeping the human touch in every story. Partnering with credible micro-influencers to build trust and engagement. Monitoring media in real time for faster, smarter crisis response. Leading with transparency by aligning clients with data laws and ESG expectations. Data and PR?Çöhow do you see analytics shaping media relations, storytelling, and overall campaign strategies in the PR industry? While in today?ÇÖs PR world, data isn?ÇÖt just valuable, it?ÇÖs a catalyst for change. Data informs almost every tactic we employ, from identifying targeted media contacts and building compelling pitches, to gaining insights for developing future communications. At Media Maniacs, we don?ÇÖt just analyze what succeeded, we use data and timely insights to help you modify messaging, maximize content impact, and demonstrate the return on investment to our clients. The other phenomenal quality of data? It?ÇÖs forward looking. We leverage data to help us with trend forecasting, building smarter PR tactics, and ultimately developing campaigns that our clients can trust are creative and performance based. It?ÇÖs PR by design - and on purpose. Regional PR is gaining momentum, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. What unique opportunities or challenges have you observed while building narratives in these markets? Regional PR in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India represents a treasure trove. These markets are a trust-based, community spirit, and cultural connection. Audiences are incredibly engaged and the Rosen complete stories that are credible and contextually relevant. However, the regional trust-based, community spirit, and cultural connection do not come without challenges to function within - challenges from basic media infrastructure to adopted digital media at a slower pace and highly hyper-local messaging; this is why you need to be strategic. Media Maniacs accommodate the challenge of contexts, culture, languages (in the diversity of the languages) and our thinking goes beyond translation to connection with local media and storylines that are far beyond surface level contextual. In these markets, relevance is everything, not maybe. What advice would you give to PR professionals looking to stay relevant and future-ready in this fast-evolving industry? Curiosity is your superpower in a rapidly-changing PR landscape. Continue to explore, whether it's new digital channels, new AI tools, or new media trends. Don?ÇÖt just create media lists?Çöcreate relationships based on real connections. And most importantly, be authentic. Today, it is less about being observed and wholly about being trusted. Value-driven stories drive differentiation among brands. Because in PR, relevance is not a function of noise?Çöit is earned by trust. 

PRCA Mena, the regional arm of the world?ÇÖs largest PR body, has launched its first-ever regional podcast, Al Sidq (Arabic for ?Çÿthe truth?ÇÖ), a platform dedicated to real and honest conversations with the most influential voices in PR, media and communication. Hosted by head of PRCA Mena and seasoned journalist, Conrad Egbert, Al Sidq goes beyond the headlines to uncover the real stories, perspectives, and thought processes that shape the industry. From career-defining moments to reflections on the region?ÇÖs evolving media ecosystem, the podcast brings together decision-makers and change-drivers for frank, engaging dialogue. The debut episode features C-suite leader and communication expert Camilla D?ÇÖabo and co-founder and owner of Seven Media Gregg Fray ?Çô two of the region?ÇÖs most respected communications professionals. Their conversation explores personal and professional milestones, the evolution of agency life and the direction in which the industry is headed. Conrad Egbert said: ?Ç£The PRCA Mena?ÇÖs new ?Çÿvodcast?ÇÖ is essentially about people, the human mind and what makes it tick. Set in a relaxed, casual setting, Al Sidq is a comfortable space for unfiltered, and sometimes even uncomfortable conversations with those shaping the region?ÇÖs narrative ?Çô their wins, their challenges and how they see the road ahead. Its primary purpose is to pick the brains of regional experts, while shining a spotlight on the immense creativity that this region adds to the global collective.?Ç¥  The first episode drops 15 July with new episodes released every two months.

You know how a great dish isn?ÇÖt just about the ingredients?Çöit?ÇÖs about getting the combination just right. That?ÇÖs how brands work, too. A sprinkle of advertising, a dash of digital marketing, a strong base of PR?Çöand boom, you?ÇÖve got something worth noticing. But if you leave out PR? You?ÇÖre serving a bland dish no one remembers.Why PR Can?ÇÖt Stand Alone AnymorePR used to mean getting your brand?ÇÖs name in the papers. Maybe landing a TV spot, if you were lucky. Today? It?ÇÖs a whole different game. Consumers jump from Instagram to a news site to an influencer's story within minutes. If your brand sounds different everywhere, you?ÇÖre just noise. That?ÇÖs why modern PR must work with the full marketing mix, not apart from it.Visibility is good. Visibility with strategy is gold.In fact, according to HubSpot, brands that align PR and marketing strategies see 36% faster revenue growth compared to brands that don?ÇÖt. Alignment isn?ÇÖt a luxury anymore?Çöit?ÇÖs a multiplier.What a 360?? Strategy Actually Looks LikeHere?ÇÖs the deal:?Çó PR gets your story out.?Çó Digital marketing makes sure the right people see it.?Çó Influencer marketing adds credibility.?Çó Content marketing builds depth.?Çó Ads push the final nudge.When all of these are singing the same tune, that?ÇÖs when real magic happens. Customers don?ÇÖt just recognise you?Çöthey trust you. And trust converts.Think of your brand as a band. PR is your lead singer. But without drums, guitar, and bass (aka, digital, influencer, advertising), even the best singer can?ÇÖt pull off a show worth remembering.The 4Ps Meet the PR RevolutionTraditionally, the 4Ps were simple:?Çó Product: What you sell?Çó Price: What you charge?Çó Place: Where you sell it?Çó Promotion: How you talk about itToday, smart brands weave PR right into all four:?Çó Product: Position it through stories, not specs.?Çó Price: Frame value through earned credibility.?Çó Place: Show up organically where your audience lives.?Çó Promotion: Amplify the message consistently across earned, owned, and paid media.Done right, PR doesn?ÇÖt just support the marketing mix. It amplifies it.?Ç£PR isn?ÇÖt about headlines anymore. It?ÇÖs about headspace. If your customer isn?ÇÖt thinking about you when they?ÇÖre ready to buy, you don?ÇÖt exist.?Ç¥Real-World Proof: How Nike Nails IntegrationTake Nike. ?Ç£Just Do It?Ç¥ isn?ÇÖt just a slogan?Çöit?ÇÖs a full marketing philosophy lived across every touchpoint. From a viral campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick to inspirational social media posts to sponsored athletes speaking about perseverance, Nike?ÇÖs messaging doesn?ÇÖt shift. Whether it?ÇÖs a PR story, an ad, a reel, or a billboard, Nike speaks with one voice?Çöand the world listens. The result? Global brand loyalty and consistent sales. That?ÇÖs not accidental. That?ÇÖs 360?? marketing integration, with storytelling at its core.Lessons From the FieldBuilding Scenic Communication taught me a few things:?Çó You can?ÇÖt silo PR anymore. It must drive business outcomes.?Çó Storytelling isn?ÇÖt an add-on. It?ÇÖs the sharpest competitive edge you have.?Çó Consistency isn?ÇÖt boring?Çöit?ÇÖs what builds brand trust.?Çó Integration isn?ÇÖt just for big budgets?Çöeven startups must think 360?? from day one.Bottom LineThe brands winning today aren?ÇÖt the loudest. They?ÇÖre the ones whose every move?Çöfrom a press article to an Instagram ad?Çöfeels like one continuous conversation. Because when your brand speaks the same language everywhere, people don?ÇÖt just listen.They remember. They trust. And they buy.

Gambit PR & Communications, a leading public relations firm, has announced ts appointment as the official PR agency for FIX Dessert Chocolatier, the ?Ç£ORIGINAL Dubai Chocolate?Ç¥ that has taken the world by storm and pioneered a new dessert segment.The partnership kicks off with the highly anticipated launch of FIX Dessert Chocolatier?ÇÖs new summer flavour, ?ÇÿTIME TO MANGO,?ÇÖ at the Mall of The Emirates in Dubai.Jamal Al Mawed, Founder and Managing Director at Gambit PR & Communications, shared his excitement on LinkedIn, stating: ?Ç£Excited to announce that Gambit PR & Communications has been appointed as the official PR agency of the viral sensation that has taken over the world and created a whole new dessert segment FIX Dessert Chocolatier ?Çô the ORIGINAL Dubai Chocolate! We kicked off with today?ÇÖs BIG launch of their new summer flavor ?ÇÿTIME TO MANGO?ÇÖ at Mall of The Emirates.?Ç¥The collaboration between Gambit PR & Communications and FIX Dessert Chocolatier is set to further amplify the brand?ÇÖs global reach and solidify its position as a unique and innovative player in the dessert industry.

Mutant, a Singapore-headquartered strategic communications agency, has officially entered the Philippines market, unveiling its fifth regional office in Southeast Asia. This expansion comes at a time of rapid transformation in the local communications ecosystem, shaped by the rise of the creator economy, changing media habits, and an increasingly digital-native consumer base.The Manila launch signals a deeper regional push for Mutant, which is leaning into culturally attuned, impact-driven storytelling. "The Philippines is a vibrant, fast-evolving market with huge potential for brands to forge meaningful connections," said Joseph Barratt, CEO of Mutant. "In this landscape, smart, strategic, creative, and commercially meaningful communications are vital ?Çö and that?ÇÖs exactly what we aim to deliver."To lead its Philippine operations, Mutant has appointed industry veterans Dev Atinaja and Luckie Masbad as co-directors. Their combined expertise brings deep local insight at a time when traditional PR models are being challenged by new digital-first approaches.Atinaja, known for her work with major brands like Lazada, McDonald's, Epson, Nestl??, Bosch, adidas, and SM Supermalls, emphasized the shifting terrain. ?Ç£With the rise of the creator economy and new media behaviors, brands need to show up differently ?Çö with more strategy, boldness, and impact,?Ç¥ she said. ?Ç£Mutant?ÇÖs DNA is built around strategic creativity and real business outcomes, which is what we?ÇÖre bringing to the table for Filipino brands.?Ç¥Masbad, who brings a strong background in social, events, and ATL campaigns, echoed the importance of connecting authenticity with scale. ?Ç£Today, it?ÇÖs not just about visibility,?Ç¥ she noted. ?Ç£It?ÇÖs about creating moments that matter ?Çö campaigns that inspire loyalty and action while staying true to both local relevance and global brand objectives.?Ç¥Mutant?ÇÖs move comes as the Philippine PR industry evolves rapidly, with key trends for 2024-2025 including AI-driven content and sentiment analysis, hyper-personalized campaigns tailored to regional nuances, and growing demand for authentic, socially responsible storytelling. Brands are increasingly expected to go beyond awareness and forge real connections with their audiences.Launched in 2012 as a lean startup, Mutant has since scaled up to over 80 employees across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and now the Philippines. Its diverse client portfolio spans technology, FMCG, finance, and lifestyle sectors. The Philippine expansion follows the agency?ÇÖs recent win of the Smartcom account in Indonesia, reinforcing its growing influence across Southeast Asia.

Value 360 Communications Limited, one of India?ÇÖs leading integrated communications and brand-building firms, today announced its foray into AI-powered content creation through a strategic collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker and AI innovator Vivek Anchalia. This announcement comes at a pivotal moment as Value 360 prepares to file its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) this month, in line with its proposed public listing on the SME Exchange.The AI-powered creative studio ?Çö currently under formation ?Çö will combine cutting-edge generative AI technologies with domain expertise in storytelling, brand strategy, and scalable content production. The venture is designed to offer brands, marketers, and content creators a next-generation solution for high-volume, highly personalized, and cost-efficient campaign production across digital and traditional channels."This new AI-powered creative studio reflects Value 360?ÇÖs larger vision ?Çö to not just participate, but actively lead the evolution of communications, marketing, and storytelling," said Kunal Kishore, Group CEO & Co-Founder of Value 360 Communications Limited. "As we enter the public markets, we want to demonstrate to our investors, clients, and partners that our growth strategy is rooted in innovation, agility, and anticipating what modern brands will demand over the next decade."Vivek Anchalia brings unique domain leadership to this venture, having built India?ÇÖs first AI-native content studio. As founder of Amazing Indian Stories, Anchalia has pioneered AI-powered filmmaking, including India?ÇÖs first AI-generated feature film Naisha. His previous credits include co-writing Netflix?ÇÖs Rajma Chawal and directing Tikdam on Jio Hotstar, cementing his credentials as a creative technologist seamlessly blending human narrative with AI capabilities."AI is not a threat to creativity ?Çö it?ÇÖs a force multiplier," said Anchalia. "Together, we are building a model that enables brands to scale quality content like never before, while preserving creative integrity. This is the future of storytelling, and I?ÇÖm excited to build this vision alongside Value 360."Expanding Value 360?ÇÖs EcosystemThe studio will function as part of Value 360?ÇÖs broader expansion into adjacent verticals that complement its core public relations and integrated communications business. By blending AI-powered creative solutions with its existing media, influencer, and digital ecosystems, Value 360 aims to offer a fully integrated, end-to-end solution for brands seeking speed, efficiency, and creative scale.With this move, Value 360 strengthens its long-term positioning as not just a communications agency, but a diversified, innovation-first marketing services platform ?Çö aligned with global trends driving consolidation across content, creative, data, and technology.IPO Filing ImminentValue 360 Communications Limited is slated to file its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) later this month as it moves toward an IPO on the SME Exchange. This public offering marks a significant milestone in the company's 18-year journey from a founder-led entrepreneurial venture to one of India?ÇÖs most respected independent marketing and communications organizations.

Burson, the global communications agency purpose-built to create value for clients through reputation, today announced the launch of Reputation Capital, a first-of-its-kind AI-powered technology and consulting solution designed to connect drivers of reputation to specific business outcomes such as stock price, sales or purchase intent. This new offer fundamentally advances how reputation is measured, valued and managed, offering leading businesses a live view of this dynamic, multi-faceted asset. Burson?ÇÖs approach facilitates immediate decision making so businesses can act with speed and precision against reputational shifts that have a direct bearing on commercial success. Reputation Capital is available through WPP Open, the AI-enabled marketing platform. ?Ç£Our core belief at Burson is that reputation is the most valuable asset that any organization possesses,?Ç¥ said Corey duBrowa, Global CEO, Burson. ?Ç£It?ÇÖs complex and constantly evolving, influenced by a variety of factors beyond any singular element such as trust. Traditional tools for measuring and shaping reputation simply can?ÇÖt keep pace with the velocity and volume of challenges our clients are navigating today. With Reputation Capital, we're pinpointing the specific drivers of reputation, forecasting the impact of potential actions, connecting these insights directly to business outcomes, and pairing them with expert counsel. This empowers our clients to make informed decisions with speed and agility, ensuring their actions and communications positively impact corporate perception and business performance, and ultimately build a lasting competitive advantage in the marketplace.?Ç¥ Deepshikha Dharmaraj, CEO, Burson Group India, said, ?Ç£We have always known and demonstrated the impact of reputation on business. But now, Reputational Capital gives us a more tangible, AI-powered solution for understanding and even predicting that impact. It empowers us to move beyond traditional metrics, providing clients with a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between reputation and business performance. And we are then pairing these insights with expert counsel, and helping clients make their reputation a competitive advantage.?Ç¥ Advanced AI Modeling Pinpoints Reputation Drivers and Impact on Performance The Reputation Capital methodology defines eight levers of reputation management, ranging from citizenship & social responsibility to management & leadership, to creativity & innovation, among others, and uses advanced data and AI models to predict the potential impact of the media environment, news, narratives, events, or actions on each lever. The models ingest and analyze information 24/7 from proprietary sources and technology platforms, capturing signals ranging from client-owned information to digital and social media. This analysis yields an up-to-the-minute reputation score that illustrates how a brand is perceived overall and isolates which specific levers need action to improve reputation with a direct impact on business. Burson?ÇÖs expert counselors then develop strategic and creative messages and ideas, which are then tested and perfected for their potential for impact. Reputation Capital analyzes brand-specific signals across segments ?Çô including geography, sector, reputation lever and audience - and uses near real-time AI analysis to pinpoint hidden or emerging reputational risks and opportunities and forecast their likelihood of scale and impact. Reputation Capital?ÇÖs breadth of data and its modeling capabilities can deliver reputation scores and insights for thousands of global companies, both public and private. ?Ç£Traditional reputation management tools only offer a backwards view of corporate perception,?Ç¥ said Chad Latz, Global Chief Innovation Officer, Burson. ?Ç£Reputation Capital changes the game by providing a dynamic understanding of a brand?ÇÖs reputation in the marketplace and predicting the impact of actions relative to key business metrics. This latest innovation is unique in the marketplace and especially valuable during periods of turbulence or emerging opportunity, when advanced intelligence, urgent action, and sophisticated communications counsel are critical for safeguarding reputation or seizing potential.?Ç¥ Direct Connection Between Reputation and Shareholder Value The Reputation Capital platform models the shareholder value of a company's reputation by focusing on business outcomes, such as stock returns, that differ from market expectations ?Çô to provide a clear picture of the impact of specific factors, like reputation, on shareholder value.  Modeling of technology sector companies proved that reputation contributes significantly to shareholder value. In this sector, shifts in company reputations contributed, on average, 0.97 percent in additional weekly returns ?Çô which in shareholder value ranges from USD $2.5B to USD $38B depending on the company being analyzed. Simply put, a one percent increase in its Reputation Capital score equated to USD $2.4B in added shareholder value for a technology company profiled in the platform. ?Ç£This profiling exercise underscores the critical role of reputation in driving financial outcomes,?Ç¥ duBrowa noted. ?Ç£For businesses, it highlights the tangible economic value of building, maintaining and enhancing reputation. For investors, it emphasizes the importance of considering reputation when evaluating potential investments. For boards, it makes reputation ?Çô always a subject in the boardroom ?Çô a more tangible asset for every company and brand.?Ç¥ Added Grant Toups, Global Chief Digital and Intelligence Officer, Burson, ?Ç£Imagine knowing that perception around corporate integrity and governance, for example, or creativity, was having outsized impact on shareholder value creation compared to the other levers of reputation. Reputation Capital delivers that specificity, arming our clients with the predictive intelligence needed to build and sustain the reputational currency that drives business performance. By transforming perception into actionable intelligence, we can help clients make reputation a distinct and quantifiable competitive advantage that can be optimized for maximum ROI.?Ç¥Reputation Capital was validated by Augmented Intelligence Labs, a University of Oxford enterprise, and includes features that are part of Burson?ÇÖs proprietary cognitive AI solution, Decipher, created in partnership with Limbik. ?Ç£Burson?ÇÖs Reputation Capital is an exceptionally advanced platform that takes the most comprehensive view of reputation ?Çô and provides the most actionable intelligence - of anything that?ÇÖs currently on the market,?Ç¥ said Dr. Felipe Thomaz, Associate Professor of Marketing, University of Oxford, and Co-Founder and Managing Director of Augmented Intelligence Labs, who counseled Burson on the solution?ÇÖs development. ?Ç£The empirical evidence that Reputation Capital reveals about the attributes that comprise reputation is extraordinarily valuable information that can guide Burson?ÇÖs counselors and the C-suite.?Ç¥ Reputation Capital is the latest addition to the Burson Innovation Portfolio, a suite of AI-enabled tools that equip Burson?ÇÖs communications experts to provide clients with faster, better insights; precision audience targeting; and culturally relevant creative.

Warner Bros. Discovery has announced a strategic plan to separate into two distinct, publicly traded companies: "Streaming & Studios" and "Global Networks." This tax-free transaction aims to enhance strategic focus, flexibility, and shareholder value for each entity.The "Streaming & Studios" company will encompass a robust portfolio of iconic brands, including Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, DC Studios, HBO, and HBO Max, along with their extensive film and television libraries. David Zaslav, current President and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, will lead Streaming & Studios as its President and CEO. This new entity will prioritize scaling HBO Max globally, investing in world-class programming, and achieving a target of at least $3 billion in annual adjusted EBITDA for its studios.The "Global Networks" company will feature premier entertainment, sports, and news television brands worldwide, such as CNN, TNT Sports in the U.S., Discovery, top free-to-air channels across Europe, and digital products including the profitable Discovery+ streaming service and Bleacher Report (B/R). Gunnar Wiedenfels, currently CFO of Warner Bros. Discovery, will serve as President and CEO of Global Networks. This company will focus on leveraging its extensive global reach of 1.1 billion unique viewers across 200 countries and territories, pursuing international growth opportunities, and elevating its live content offerings in sports and news."The cultural significance of this great company and the impactful stories it has brought to life for more than a century have touched countless people all over the world," said David Zaslav. "By operating as two distinct and optimized companies in the future, we are empowering these iconic brands with the sharper focus and strategic flexibility they need to compete most effectively in today's evolving media landscape."Gunnar Wiedenfels added, "This separation will invigorate each company by enabling them to leverage their strengths and specific financial profiles. This will also allow each company to pursue important investment opportunities and drive shareholder value."Samuel A. Di Piazza, Jr., Chair of the Warner Bros. Discovery Board of Directors, emphasized that this decision reflects the Board's ongoing efforts to enhance shareholder value.The separation is expected to be completed by mid-2026, subject to various closing conditions and approvals, including final approval by the Warner Bros. Discovery Board and receipt of tax opinions. Both companies are expected to have well-capitalized structures, with Global Networks planning to hold up to a 20% retained stake in Streaming & Studios for future monetization.Warner Bros. Discovery also announced the commencement of tender offers and related consent solicitations to enhance its debt portfolio, funded by a $17.5 billion committed bridge facility.J.P. Morgan and Evercore are serving as financial advisors, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal counsel for Warner Bros. Discovery.

The Shortlist, a new boutique recruitment consultancy specializing exclusively in the public relations and communications sector, officially launched its operations in Singapore in May 2025. Founded and led by industry veteran KJ Green, (pictured), formerly a director at 33 Talent, the firm aims to offer a personalized, "high-touch" approach to talent acquisition for both agencies and in-house communications teams.Based in Singapore, The Shortlist is committed to helping clients cultivate stronger, more interconnected communications functions.Green brings over a decade of specialized recruitment experience within the Singapore market, having spent ten years at 33 Talent, rising from consultant to director of PR and communications. Her career also includes a stint as a consultant at Chandler Macleod Group and early experience in the United Kingdom.The decision to establish The Shortlist in Singapore was a natural progression for Green, who has called the city-state home for over a decade. ?Ç£It?ÇÖs where I?ÇÖve built both my career and a strong community in PR and communications recruitment,?Ç¥ she remarked, adding that the "dynamic, relationship-driven market" and strong network support affirmed her decision to launch the new venture.In a competitive recruitment landscape that includes established firms such as 33 Talent, Narrative, Prospect, and MCG, The Shortlist distinguishes itself through a founder-led model. The firm intentionally limits its client engagements to a maximum of five at any given time, a lean approach Green explains allows for ?Ç£maximum focus, trust, and impact.?Ç¥Currently operating independently under DMCG Global?ÇÖs employment licence, The Shortlist also leverages a trusted network of specialists for bespoke projects. Its client portfolio primarily comprises global agencies and brands within Singapore, with the majority of work conducted on a retained or exclusive basis. "Our model is based on quality over quantity,?Ç¥ Green emphasized.While Singapore remains the core focus, The Shortlist has set its sights on future expansion into Malaysia and Indonesia. Green identifies these markets as areas with strong growth in the communications sector and increasing demand for regional talent strategies.?Ç£Our primary strategy is to support local agencies and in-house teams in Singapore, helping them hire and retain the right talent,?Ç¥ Green noted. ?Ç£That said, we?ÇÖre increasingly hearing from global brands looking to establish or grow their comms presence in APAC, and we?ÇÖre well-positioned to support both. Our value lies in deep local expertise with a regional lens."The launch of The Shortlist follows other recent consultancy openings in Singapore's marketing and communications sphere. Last week saw the debut of INFLUENCE, a B2B influencer marketing consultancy co-founded by Arundhati Saha and Pauline Yoong, formerly of PRecious Communications. INFLUENCE aims to assist brands in driving business impact and visibility through tailored influencer strategies that integrate thought leadership, digital strategy, and brand storytelling.

Publicis Communications KSA, the creative powerhouse of Publicis Groupe Middle East, has appointed Hessa Al Sudairy as Executive Creative Director. In her new role, Hessa will lead the creative charge across the agency?ÇÖs Saudi operations, working closely with the Leo Burnett and Saatchi & Saatchi offices to shape and elevate brand storytelling for a rapidly growing client portfolio.Bringing over 15 years of industry experience, Hessa is renowned for crafting award-winning campaigns for iconic regional and global brands, including Apple, stc, Almarai, Red Bull, Volkswagen, and leading financial institutions. Her strategic and culturally rooted creative approach has left a significant mark across sectors such as telecom, tech, finance, FMCG, and automotive.Bassel Kakish, CEO of Publicis Groupe Middle East & Turkey, remarked: ?Ç£Hessa?ÇÖs return comes at a pivotal moment for our creative ambitions in Saudi Arabia. She brings the right mix of creative leadership, market understanding, and collaborative energy that our clients value.?Ç¥Having begun her career as a copywriter at Leo Burnett, Hessa?ÇÖs journey has now come full circle as she takes the reins of the creative leadership in one of the region?ÇÖs most dynamic markets.Fizo Younis, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis Communications KSA & Egypt, added: ?Ç£You?ÇÖre only as good as the people you work with, and Hessa raises the bar. Her creative excellence speaks for itself, but it?ÇÖs who she is as a person that makes working with her such a joy.?Ç¥Commenting on her appointment, Hessa said: ?Ç£It?ÇÖs thrilling to return to a dynamic, ever-evolving group that places integration at the heart of its offering, and to bring that to the region?ÇÖs most exciting market, KSA.?Ç¥A respected figure in the creative community, Hessa?ÇÖs work has been recognized at prestigious award shows including the Dubai Lynx, Loeries, Effies, WARC, and D&AD, and she has served as a juror for both Dubai Lynx and the Clio Awards.Her appointment reinforces Publicis Groupe?ÇÖs strategic focus on strengthening creative leadership and deepening its investment in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Public Relations Consultants Association of India (PRCAI), the apex body representing PR and communication consultants in the country, today announced at its 24th Annual General meeting, the appointment of its new Managing Committee (MANCOM) and the 5 National Chairs who are part of the Executive Committee (EXCOM) for the 2025-2027 term, following a spirited and participative election process.This year?ÇÖs elections saw robust member engagement, with five leaders being elected through a competitive voting process, while four were elected unanimously - a testament to the industry?ÇÖs belief in their leadership and direction.Kunal Kishore, Group CEO & Co-Founder of Value 360 Communications, who has served as PRCAI?ÇÖs Vice President for the past four years, has been elected President. He succeeds Atul Sharma, CEO, Ruder Finn India and Head, Middle East, who led PRCAI through two dynamic terms marked by significant progress, including expanded membership, the onboarding of first-ever CEO, launch of signature industry programs, and a renewed focus on ethics and talent.The new MANCOM will continue to work in close collaboration with Deeptie Sethi, CEO, PRCAI, to drive a progressive, future-ready agenda rooted in inclusivity, action, and industry impact. The committee includes:??        Kunal Kishore, Group CEO & Co-Founder of Value 360 Communications - President, PRCAI??        Neha Mehrotra, Managing Director, Avian WE - Vice President, PRCAI??        Santanu Gogoi, Founding Partner, First Partners - Associate Vice President, PRCAI (in a newly evolved role, previously ?Ç£Secretary,?Ç¥ to reflect its broader strategic mandate) ?Ç£These are transformative times for the Public Relations industry in India and is projected to nearly double by end of the decade. At PRCAI, we understand the pulse of this change and are committed to build a respected, sustainable and action-oriented industry body,?Ç¥ said Deeptie Sethi, CEO, PRCAI. ?Ç£As President, Atul Sharma led with exemplary vision and integrity, and with Kunal Kishore and the newly elected and diversely represented leadership team, our focus remains steadfast on ethical standards, industry excellence, capacity development, and nurturing future-ready talent. Together, we aim to elevate the profession, built on reputation, rooted in responsibility.?Ç¥ PRCAI also announced its five National Chairs in EXCOM, including 1 new role, each driving a specific mandate to advance the association?ÇÖs strategic priorities:?      Nandita Lakshmanan, National Chair, Growth & Standardization, founder, The PRactice?      Dolly Tayal - National Chair, Marketing Communications & Global Networks, and the Managing Director, Burson Genesis?      Abhishek Gulyani - National Chair, Talent & Academia Connect, and the managing Director India and Head of Corporate Affairs, APAC, Zeno Group?      Vivek Rana - National Chair, Learning & Thought Leadership, and the managing partner, Gnothi Seauton?      Rishi Seth - National Chair, Public Affairs and Advocacy, and the founder and CEO of Evoc Communications Consulting Pvt. Ltd in a newly created role. Together, this leadership cohort represents a diverse mix of vision, experience, and energy, united by the shared goal of strengthening India?ÇÖs communications industry with one voice, and its global relevance. Reflecting on his tenure, Atul Sharma shared, ?Ç£Having worked in the public relations industry for over two and a half decades, my time with PRCAI has been one of the most meaningful ways I?ÇÖve been able to give back to the profession that shaped me. It?ÇÖs been an honor to lead PRCAI through a period of real change- one that?ÇÖs seen us move from intent to action, and from ambition to real outcomes. I?ÇÖm grateful for the trust of my peers and proud of all we?ÇÖve built together.?Ç¥Newly elected President Kunal Kishore added, ?Ç£I?ÇÖm honored to take on this role at a time when the Indian PR industry is poised for its next phase of evolution. My vision is to build PRCAI as a dominant, respected voice in the country ?Çö one that not only represents our industry but shapes it. We will work to expand our national footprint, introduce a new industry charter focused on ethics, innovation, and professionalism, and deepen engagement with all stakeholders ?Çö from clients to academia, media to government. It?ÇÖs time for public relations to be recognized as a core pillar of the media and marketing ecosystem, and I look forward to driving that transformation with all the elected leaders and our CEO.?Ç¥Key Milestones from PRCAI?ÇÖs Recent Term Include:?      PRana 2024: India?ÇÖs first story convention and business summit, convening 100+ changemakers to reshape the PR narrative for brand India and its global reputation?      Growth Hacking: Start-Up to Scale-Up: Accelerator for emerging firms tackling financial strategy, talent, and positioning?      Client-Consultancy Partnership Charter: A first-of-its-kind framework to elevate industry standardization and engagement norms?      2,500+ professionals trained: Through certification programs and workshops aligned with future-ready skills?      PRCAI Mediation Desk: Mediation as a service that can help stakeholders and members use the art and science of mediation to resolve disputes amicably. ?      Advisory on Misinformation: A guideline upholding Responsible Communication in Times of National Crises

Max Level, a leading marketing and PR agency built by gamers, has won the public relations mandate for Riot Games India and South Asia, the global video game developer and publisher behind genre-defining games such as League of Legends, Team Fight Tactics, VALORANT, and more. As part of the partnership, Max Level will lead Riot?ÇÖs communication strategy in the region, driving awareness and engagement across its expanding player and esports communities.Max Level will work closely with Riot?ÇÖs India and South Asia teams to amplify brand campaigns, regional esports initiatives, product updates, and community-first storytelling in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and other South Asian markets. The collaboration aims to build authentic, culturally resonant narratives that reflect Riot?ÇÖs mission as a player-focused organisation.The synergy between Riot and Max Level stems from a shared vision to elevate gaming culture across South Asia. With both organizations placing players and community at the heart of their strategy, the partnership is rooted in long-term brand building. Riot brings a legacy of shaping global gaming and esports culture, not just through its games but also through transmedia storytelling, most notably with Arcane: League of Legends, the Emmy Award-winning Netflix series that redefined how games can expand into mainstream entertainment. Max Level, in turn, brings on-ground expertise and cultural fluency in India?ÇÖs rapidly evolving interactive entertainment space.The win follows a competitive multi-agency pitch process that saw Max Level selected from among several top PR agencies. The decision was based on Max Level?ÇÖs deep understanding of the gaming and esports audience, its creative-first approach, and its proven ability to drive conversation and cultural relevance.Siddharth Nayyar, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Max Level, said, "Winning the PR mandate for Riot Games is a defining moment for us. Riot has not only shaped the modern multiplayer era but also built global communities around player-first values. We?ÇÖre thrilled to help expand that legacy in India and South Asia, a region that?ÇÖs growing and evolving at a breakneck pace."Max Level?ÇÖs mandate includes ongoing campaign support for key products and IPs, regional amplification of Riot?ÇÖs global esports events, as well as strategic counsel on community engagement and creator collaborations. The agency?ÇÖs track record with brands like NODWIN Gaming, SuperGaming, CyberPowerPC India, KRAFTON, ESL FACEIT Group among others makes it uniquely positioned to drive culturally relevant PR in gaming and esports.According to the Lumikai State of India Gaming Report 2024, India?ÇÖs gaming market reached $3.1 billion in FY23, with projections to hit $7.5 billion by FY28, fueled by a base of over 568 million gamers, nearly half of whom are paying users. The report also highlights how India is now the largest consumer of mobile games globally, creating an immense opportunity for publishers like Riot to scale their reach and community.

Progressive Communications, a Singapore-based public relations consultancy, and Active FZ LLC, UAE-based integrated marketing and communications agency, announced a strategic partnership to provide clients with seamless, integrated communications support across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. The partnership combines Progressive?ÇÖs earned-first communications expertise in APAC with Active FZ LLC?ÇÖs deep regional presence and integrated marketing strength across the Middle East. Clients with regional hubs in Singapore or Dubai?Çöand ambitions to scale?Çöcan now access a unified, cross-border team offering brand positioning, media strategy, earned-first PR, and market-entry planning.The partnership will support globally minded brands with consistent, high-impact narratives and reputation strategies across key regional markets.?Ç£We?ÇÖre excited to join forces with Louay and the team at Active,?Ç¥ said Tarun Deo, Founder and Managing Director of Progressive Communications. ?Ç£They bring deep regional insight, strong media relationships, and a strategic mindset that perfectly complements our strengths communications planning and storytelling. Together, we offer a powerful, compelling proposition for brands ready to expand across borders.?Ç¥Progressive Communications is a dedicated, close-knit team of experienced senior consultants and energetic young talent. Combining decades of experience with a keen awareness of current trends, the agency blends vibrant creativity, rigorous analytics, and practical insight to help brands engage meaningfully with their stakeholders and stand out in today?ÇÖs crowded communications landscape. Backed by a global partner network, Progressive Communications has worked with clients including Zespri International, SAP Concur, and Swire Coca-Cola.Louay Al Sammarai, CEO and Founder of Active FC LLZ, added: ?Ç£This partnership gives our clients access to expert communications counsel across APAC through Progressive?ÇÖs network and capabilities. We look forward to unlocking new business opportunities together and delivering bold, impactful work that resonates in every market we serve.?Ç¥Founded in 2003, Active FZ LLC is a leading marketing and communications agency with more than two decades of experience across the Middle East. Known for its innovative, culturally attuned campaigns, the agency supports global and regional brands across public relations, influencer engagement, lead generation, digital marketing, content production, exhibition stand build and services and event management. Active FZ LLC extends its reach internationally through a network of affiliates and partners.This partnership brings together a team of seasoned communications professionals with deep local market knowledge and a shared ambition to deliver scalable, borderless solutions. Both firms will maintain their independent branding and legal identities while aligning on approach, quality, and execution to serve clients as one cohesive cross-regional team.

Public Relations has entered a bold new era. No longer just a back-office function, it has transformed into a strategic powerhouse shaping brand reputation and influence. Companies and leaders now see PR not as an afterthought, but as an essential force driving credibility, trust, and long-term success. The industry has undergone a radical shift with the rise of social media, fundamentally transforming PR strategies. Influencers now play a crucial role in shaping consumer perceptions and engagement. PR is no longer confined to securing media visibility; it has expanded into a dynamic, results-driven discipline focused on meaningful interactions and measurable outcomes. With a younger, more digitally savvy audience emerging, PR professionals face new challenges. Brands and practitioners must be more agile, data-driven, and proactive in crafting business solutions that resonate with their audience. The future of PR lies in adaptability, authenticity, and strategic storytelling that build lasting trust and impact. In our exclusive weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully interacts with leading business leaders to gain their exclusive views and insights on various trends in the PR and communications industry. In today?ÇÖs interconnected world, effective communication is paramount for global brands, especially those navigating the complexities of technology and data privacy. Truecaller, a name synonymous with caller identification, has evolved into a comprehensive communication platform, serving hundreds of millions of users worldwide. Leading the charge in shaping Truecaller?ÇÖs narrative and safeguarding its reputation is its Global Head of Corporate Communications, Hitesh Raj Bhagat. With a career dedicated to strategic messaging in the tech sector, Bhagat offers a unique perspective on managing brand perception, combating misinformation, and fostering transparency in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. In conversation with Adgully, Hitesh Raj Bhagat speaks about his role, the challenges of communicating for a global tech brand, and the impactful initiatives that define Truecaller?ÇÖs commitment to safer and smarter communication, and more. What does a day in your role as Global Head of Corporate Communications at Truecaller typically look like? It?ÇÖs not too different from any other tech company actually. Our team is spread across a few locations in India and Stockholm. We have check-ins with our team members and on different days of the week, we have an all hands meeting, a product forum to discuss upcoming improvements to the service, Lab Days where anyone can come up with ideas for the next big thing. Globally, we are a lean team of just about 450 people. So, we use a lot of external help. For instance, we have two PR agencies in India and others that help us target different parts of the world where we need to communicate or interact with the media. We sync with them as well, plus there are tools that we use every day for monitoring and analysis. What are the key challenges in managing communications for a global tech brand like Truecaller? I always say this to people, that simply going online and searching for Truecaller is probably the worst way to gather accurate information about the company. The reason is that we have various entities that keep spreading misinformation about us ?Çô and this exists in both written form and video. Truecaller has been publicly listed since 2021 ?Çô all financials, revenue streams and a lot of other information is public. So, a big challenge for us is always trying to correct the misinformation about Truecaller that exists out there. For example, a big misconception is that Truecaller automatically uploads contacts once you get the app and that is how it builds a large global database. This is false ?Çô Truecaller is community-powered. There are millions of signals, name corrections and name suggestions received daily, which the algorithms are constantly refining. It?ÇÖs like a living, breathing thing that has to constantly stay a step ahead of scammers. Another example of miscommunication is that Truecaller reads all your SMS and then somehow uses this to target you with ads. This is also false ?Çô Truecaller SMS works entirely offline, on-device, powered by an on-device machine learning system. No SMS content is sent to our servers ?Çô the app locally categorises SMS, removes all spam/ scam, gives you reminders and shows you all relevant information using cards (we call them Message IDs). Truecaller has evolved from a caller ID app to a broader communication platform. How has the communication strategy shifted with this evolution? That?ÇÖs a great point. In the very early days of Truecaller, it was solving a very basic problem ?Çô who is calling? But as consumers, our communication needs have also evolved a lot. Truecaller has also evolved; it is not just a simple caller ID but a lot more. Truecaller can give you the intent behind a call, empowering you with a lot of recent, relevant and powerful information about the caller. And I can give you an example of how this works. If I receive a call, just seeing a name does not really tell me who that person is and what they intend to do with my time. Community markings can tell me if the caller is a spammer (a time waste scenario) or is it a scammer (which can be far more dangerous or malicious) which can lead to real losses. Additionally, it is useful to know what kind of scammer is it? What are other people saying about this caller? Is it possibly a legitimate business calling you? If yes, why are they calling you? Verified businesses on Truecaller can assign a call reason that you can see even without answering the call. Or you can set a time for the business to call you back in case you are busy. We do have to keep talking about these aspects. What are some of the key brand perception changes you?ÇÖve driven in recent years? Some time ago, a lot of people thought Truecaller was a Chinese app or had some very strong Chinese connections. Neither of which was ever true. So, we had to drive home the message about what we are and what we stand for. The vision of the company is to make tomorrow?ÇÖs communication safer, smarter and more efficient. Fun fact, even though Truecaller is headquartered in Stockholm, the largest workforce is in India. Our largest office is Bengaluru, which is a full stack development team too. India is also our largest user base, over 300 million active users and growing organically, almost at the pace of smartphone growth itself. How do you ensure brand consistency across multiple international markets? We have a team spread across a few regions ?Çô mostly India and Stockholm. We have a strong brand team in place that looks at all aspects related to our brand and how it is represented. Across regions, there are some nuances of course, but while we do try to stay local and speak to a consumer in their own language, we maintain a steady level of consistency when it comes to how Truecaller is represented in various markets. In the age of data privacy concerns, how does Truecaller approach transparency in communication? This is an important subject to discuss. I always like to give this example ?Çô just go to a search engine and search for your name. You?ÇÖll find a lot of information about yourself on various websites. In some cases, I have not just seen phone numbers, social media and photos, but also various IDs and even full home addresses. You can try to start removing all that information from all these places, but guess what: you will not be very successful. On the other hand, Truecaller is compliant with various privacy laws globally, starting with GDPR. Even in countries that don?ÇÖt have any privacy laws or are developing them, we have been offering very detailed privacy controls for many years now. You can actually permanently unlist yourself and remove all your info from Truecaller within 24 hours. You can easily delete your account, download your data or remove previously authorised apps. A detailed privacy section in the app, a dedicated unlisting webpage and an extensive privacy center online are all part of this transparency that we provide to all consumers, regardless of their location. Could you share a campaign or initiative that you are particularly proud of? I can give you a couple of examples here. One of the things that Truecaller stands for is women?ÇÖs safety. Truecaller is more than just caller ID: it is often the first line of defence for women who might face harassment, stalking or unwanted messages/ calls through their phones. And this is something we often communicate and provide resources for. Another example: during the worst Covid waves in the country, scammers had a field day, scamming people under the guise of providing oxygen concentrators, life saving drugs or hospital beds. We were working with the Home Ministry and various Police authorities to actively mark Covid Scams so that people could stay protected at their most vulnerable. Over a few weeks of this exercise, Covid related scams could be brought under control, providing a relief to consumers who could instead focus on their and loved one?ÇÖs health. This is a perfect example of a public-private partnership that focuses on solving a real problem. We also partnered with other companies ?Çô FactChecker and MapmyIndia, for example. FactChecker would help verify numbers for hospitals, health centres, Covid test facilities that we could list. MapmyIndia, India?ÇÖs homegrown mapping solution, had marked out over 60,000 Covid related Points of Interest during the second Covid wave. In a rapid, non-commercial partnership with MapmyIndia, we integrated their maps right inside Truecaller. This allowed anyone to find help quickly, call important numbers and even navigate to nearby hospitals and test centres. Even now, we have a section in the app called Government Services. It is an offline, state-wise, Truecaller-verified directory of important government service and ministerial phone numbers. You can search for what you need and directly dial a number from there. It works even without an internet connection. 

Confiance Communications, an integrated communications agency known for its expertise in brand-building across genres and scales, has secured the PR mandate for Hoi, the official travel-tech platform for leading airports in India. Hoi has emerged as a comprehensive airport concierge service, currently operational across major airports including Delhi, Goa, and Hyderabad. The platform's innovative approach to airport services combines cutting-edge technology with passenger-centric solutions, making it an indispensable companion for modern travellers. Hoi's suite of smart features includes the unique "Time to Gate" tracker for efficient airport navigation, real-time flight updates, and seamless pre-ordering services for airport dining. The platform elevates the travel experience through premium offerings such as exclusive lounge access, VIP meet and greet services with priority check-in, porter assistance, and a 24/7 AI-powered Info Center for instant airport-related assistance. As part of the mandate, Confiance Communications will spearhead Hoi's strategic Communications framework, leveraging its deep understanding of the travel-tech ecosystem. The agency will focus on crafting compelling brand narratives, forging strong media relationships, and creating engaging content strategies. The partnership aims to amplify Hoi's position as a pioneering force in transforming airport experiences while highlighting its innovative technology solutions.Bushra Ismail, Founder & Chief Strategist, Confiance Communications, said: ?Ç£With airports becoming increasingly complex, Hoi's tech-first approach in simplifying the entire airport journey directly addresses travellers' key pain points. Our role here will be to showcase how Hoi's innovative technology is setting new benchmarks in travel convenience, positioning them at the forefront of India's travel-tech revolution. Our strategic outreach will focus on reaching frequent flyers, tech-savvy travellers, and key stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem.?Ç¥Dhruv Godara, Deputy CEO, Hoi, said:?Ç£This partnership is a key brand awareness lever ?Çö Confiance Communications will help us position Hoi as India?ÇÖs most trusted travel companion and showcase how technology is reshaping air travel experiences.?Ç¥Founded by seasoned publicist Bushra Ismail in 2019, Confiance Communications has established a strong foothold as one of India's most reliable and outcome-driven PR agencies, particularly within the startup and venture capital ecosystems. The agency has an exceptional track record of catapulting the media and digital presence of over 90 organisations in India and abroad. Confiance's esteemed clientele includes notable brands like The Quorum Club, Leo Capital, Nutrabay, Turkiye Tourism, Beyond Appliances, Salad Days, Transition VC, Bureau ID, PlanetSpark, and Khyaal, among other distinguished names. Additionally, the agency has successfully partnered with listed entities such as TIL Limited, ProcMart (part of IndiaMART), and Just Herbs (acquired by Marico), among others.

Rafeeg App, a leading UAE-based platform in the home services sector, made a bold statement at GITEX Europe 2025 with the unveiling of its new AI-powered interior design algorithm, allowing homeowners to professionally design their spaces without hiring interior designers or conducting in-person consultations. The announcement signals a major move toward digital transformation in home design while also setting the stage for Rafeeg?ÇÖs global expansion, starting with Europe.The patent-pending algorithm, currently undergoing the registration process with support from the UAE Ministry of Economy and Khalifa Fund, employs AI to instantly generate high-quality and fully customized interior design concepts based on user input. Without the need for costly site visits or manual layout reviews, the technology significantly reduces the time and the cost that is often associated with home redesign. It is expected to launch publicly by the end of 2025.Rafeeg introduced an innovative franchise pilot program at the event, inviting interested European partners to participate in a fully funded, one-month trial with no obligation to continue afterwards. During the opening days of the exhibition, more than 20 European businesses expressed formal interest in the program. Rafeeg will cover all startup costs during the trial, providing partners with a low-risk opportunity to test the platform in their respective markets.?Ç£We believe that the success of a startup depends on cultivating knowledge, trust, and a seamless operation. This vision is what Rafeeg stands for and presents,?Ç¥ said Khamis Alsheryani, Founder and CEO of Rafeeg. ?Ç£We?ÇÖre excited to extend that vision to Europe and beyond.?Ç¥Founded in 2017, Rafeeg was created to bridge the gap between homeowners and vetted service providers in the UAE. The app currently supports over 140,000 users and a network of 4,500 service professionals, including electricians, interior designers, and renovation specialists. The platform has already processed over AED 50 million in transactions and is celebrated for its focus on quality assurance, affordability, and customer satisfaction.What sets Rafeeg apart is its mission to empower local businesses rather than compete with them. Through comprehensive training programs, operational support, and strict quality control, Rafeeg helps small and medium-sized contractors to scale their operations and elevate their service standards. Their collaborative approach has been a key pillar of the brand?ÇÖs success in the UAE and is central to its strategy for future expansion.The company?ÇÖs participation in GITEX Europe represents a strategic initiative to enter new markets. Supported by the UAE?ÇÖs national innovation agenda, Rafeeg is actively seeking like-minded partners across the Northern Emirates, GCC countries, and key European cities to collaboratively develop the next generation of home services.

Award-winning PR and communications agency TishTash, along with the wider TishTash Group, has announced that Polly Williams, Managing Director, will be stepping away from her role after a transformative tenure spanning nearly a decade. Having served as Managing Director since 2019, Williams has played a pivotal role in shaping the agency?ÇÖs strategic growth and culture.Williams joined TishTash Communications in 2016 as Group Account Director, swiftly establishing herself as a key force behind the agency?ÇÖs evolution into a fully integrated communications powerhouse. Under her leadership, the agency expanded its offerings across PR, creative, events, content, social, and digital marketing?Çöushering in a new era for the business.Notable achievements during her time include:?Çó Growing the agency from a 10-person team to over 70 employees, achieving double-digit growth for five consecutive years.?Çó Spearheading the agency?ÇÖs expansion into the KSA and UK markets.?Çó Launching a cutting-edge ?ÇÿDirect to Consumer?ÇÖ division, including the launch of Raemona Magazine and the acquisition of the popular online community That Dubai Girl.?Çó Championing workplace innovation, with TishTash becoming accredited as a ?Ç£Great Place to Work?Ç¥ and introducing region-first policies around menopause, menstruation, and fertility leave.?Ç£Polly has been a key driving force behind our growth and success over the last 10 years, and in bringing my vision to life,?Ç¥ said Natasha Hatherall, Founder and CEO of TishTash Group. ?Ç£Her tenacity, determination and commitment have been invaluable to me and the agency as we moved from start-up to the large multi-disciplinary agency we are today. While we?ÇÖre all sad to see her go, we?ÇÖre incredibly proud of all she has accomplished and cannot wait to see what she goes on to achieve next.?Ç¥Reflecting on her departure, Williams said: ?Ç£Leading the growth of TishTash has been such a significant and rewarding part of my career. Scaling the business and building a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team of talented women has given me so much to be proud of. I will continue to be in awe of Natasha and TishTash as it goes on to enjoy future successes. As I move into my next chapter, I look forward to applying the experience, insight and momentum gained at TishTash to new opportunities and ventures.?Ç¥The agency has confirmed that Williams?ÇÖ role will not be replaced immediately. Instead, Senior Business Directors Scarlett Sykes and Katie Watson Grant will step into enhanced leadership roles in support of CEO Natasha Hatherall.Looking ahead, Hatherall and Williams will continue to collaborate on several new ventures?Çöincluding co-authoring a book that reflects their shared insights and experiences in the communications world.

ON PURPOSE, a creative communications consultancy focused on social change, has added four new clients to its portfolio this month - Sat Leo Labs, Quest Alliance, Karnataka Health Promotion Trust and one more recently acquired partner. These partnerships mark a strong growth trajectory for ON PURPOSE?ÇÖs Bengaluru office and strengthen its commitment to using strategic communications to drive impact across health tech, climate innovation, education, and public health. The mandates include designing and executing communications strategies to raise visibility, shape narratives, and build engagement for these organizations?ÇÖ key initiatives:     Sat Leo Labs is a pioneering space-tech company focused on sustainable satellite technology and climate observation systems, aiming to strengthen India?ÇÖs positioning in global climate intelligence and satellite innovation.     Quest Alliance is a non-profit organisation working at the intersection of education and skills, empowering educators and learners with future-ready mindsets and digital capabilities, especially in underserved communities. Karnataka Health Promotion Trust is a public health nonprofit advancing the health and well-being of vulnerable communities through scalable programs in tuberculosis, maternal and child health, adolescent health, and primary healthcare. By integrating research, digital innovation, and government collaboration, KHPT drives sustainable, system-level change.   The fourth client is a mission-driven organization operating in the health tech space, and ON PURPOSE looks forward to supporting their communications journey. Commenting on the expansion, Girish Balachandran, Founder and Managing Director at ON PURPOSE, said: ?Ç£It?ÇÖs exciting to witness the growing energy at the intersection of technology and social innovation in Bengaluru. These new partnerships across health tech, space innovation, education, and public health are a testament to the relevance of purpose-led communications today. We?ÇÖre proud to be chosen as the partner of choice for organisations tackling some of India?ÇÖs most complex challenges and are committed to amplifying their work to create a deeper impact.?Ç¥

Current Global MENAT, part of Middle East Communications Network (MCN), has made five new appointments in the last two months following several major client wins and continued development of its capabilities.Nick Watkins, former ARN News Editor and contributor to The National and Gulf News, joins as Senior Editor charged with leading the agency?ÇÖs storytelling capabilities and earned media engagement strategies.Mohammad Al Sayed joins as Account Director from Gambit Communications, while Aya Khaddam comes in as Senior Associate from Brazen MENA. Murdoch University graduate and MEPRA ?Ç£Outstanding Student Campaign?Ç¥ winner Aastha Kurup has been appointed Junior Associate. Sohailla Ossama begins as Account Coordinator based in Egypt to support the agency?ÇÖs client account teams.Peter Jacob, Managing Director, Current Global MENAT said, ?Ç£Since we started Current Global less than three years ago, we made a commitment to do things differently, built on a common-sense and human-first approach to how we think, act and deliver.?Ç¥Current Global works with some of the region?ÇÖs most loved brands including Dubai Tourism, New Balance, Global Village, Roxy Cinemas, Kraft Heinz, Bentley, Bugatti and GymNation.?Ç£As part of our vision to define what an earned-first agency in the Middle East looks like, we want to do continue to so what others are unwilling or unable. Moving away from the spray and play media dispatches. Leaving egos outside the room to deliver cut-through earned-first and integrated ideas. Freeing our junior teams from an over burden of reporting, whilst also providing them with vital team management experience. We want to provide the best place to work and be true and equal partners to our clients,?Ç¥ continued Jacob.Recently named PRWeek?ÇÖs Middle East Agency of the Year and winner of Best Middle East Bampaign at both the PRWeek and EMEA SABRE award for the second year running, Current Global MENAT combines the reach, ambition, and mindset of a big agency, with the attitude, speed, and passion of a smaller one. In the last 12 months the team has won over 35 industry awards and has recently been recognised as a Great Place to Work?« in the Middle East for 2024?Çô2025 and Best Mental Health Support in PR.

Quess Corp Ltd., a global leader in staffing and workforce solutions, has appointed MSL India, India?ÇÖs leading integrated communications, as its strategic communications partner to support its next phase of growth and transformation. This partnership comes at a time when the company has demerged from being a business services provider to a pure play workforce management company, aiming to unlock greater value for shareholders.  MSL will spearhead integrated communication strategies encompassing corporate reputation, stakeholder engagement, and thought leadership initiatives. The agency's expertise in crafting compelling narratives is expected to further bolster Quess Corp?ÇÖs positioning in the evolving business landscape. Guruprasad Srinivasan, Executive Director & Group CEO, Quess Corp, said: ?Ç£As we embark on this new journey as a workforce company and with a goal of becoming a global leader in the staffing category, it?ÇÖs imperative to align our next phase of growth with a communications partner who is able to position us effectively as an emerging global workforce management company. This partnership underscores Quess Corp's commitment to strategic communication as a growth and stakeholder engagement catalyst.?Ç¥ Amit Misra, CEO, MSL South Asia, added: ?Ç£We are proud to partner with Quess Corp, India?ÇÖs largest workforce solutions provider. Quess has created a significant impact in our society by formalising India?ÇÖs workforce over the years. As they unfold a new chapter with sharper business objectives, our full-stack communication approach will aid Quess in creating powerful narratives and building engagement with think tanks, policymakers and stakeholders who form and shape influence.?Ç¥

Havas N.V., the global communications powerhouse, has announced robust financial results for 2024 and unveiled an ambitious strategic roadmap for sustained growth, prominently featuring significant investments in artificial intelligence. During its Annual General Meeting held on May 28, 2025, the company characterized 2024 as a "historic year of change," marked by a redefined strategic direction, substantial organizational expansion, key acquisitions, and the deep integration of AI across its operations.2024: A Foundation for Future Growth Amidst TransformationIn a year of strategic realignment, Havas achieved net revenues of ?é¼2.736 billion, reflecting a 1.5% year-over-year increase. Adjusted EBIT saw a healthy rise to ?é¼338 million, up 3.4% from the previous year, aligning with the group?ÇÖs guidance targets despite a marginal organic revenue decline of -0.8%. Key financial indicators underscore the group's solid performance: an adjusted EBIT margin of 12.4% (+30bps), an impressive free cash-flow conversion of 86%, and a net cash position of ?é¼211 million after an exceptional dividend payout.The year also saw the successful implementation of Havas?ÇÖ new "Converged Strategy," designed to foster deeper collaboration across its global creative, media, and health networks. This strategic pivot positions Havas as "the strongest challenger in a reconfiguring market," emphasizing agility, client proximity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.Global Acclaim and Enhanced Operational DepthWith a formidable presence in over 100 markets and a workforce of 23,000, Havas significantly strengthened its operational depth in 2024. The group received widespread industry recognition, with BETC ranking 1 in the WARC Creative 100, Havas Media Network securing the 1 spot in Europe and LATAM by RECMA, and both Havas India and Havas Health Network being certified as Great Places to Work?«. Overall, Havas agencies garnered an impressive 1,575 awards in 2024, reflecting strong performances across its media, creative, and health divisions.Aggressive Expansion Fuels Strategic CapabilitiesHavas pursued an assertive acquisition strategy in 2024, completing six strategic bolt-on acquisitions across the UK, France, Middle East, and Australia. This momentum continued into early 2025 with additional acquisitions in Spain, North America, and Latin America. These strategic moves are designed to deepen Havas?ÇÖ expertise in high-growth areas such as data, social media, B2B marketing, e-commerce, sports marketing, retail media, and creative services, reinforcing its unified "content-at-scale" network.AI at the Core: A ?é¼400 Million Investment in the FutureArtificial intelligence is now central to Havas?ÇÖ operational and client strategies. The company confirmed a substantial ?é¼400 million investment planned between 2024 and 2027 dedicated to enhancing its AI and tech infrastructure. Its specialized platform, Havas.AI, offers a comprehensive suite of services, including consulting, proprietary tools, and AI-driven delivery solutions, underpinning agency operations to streamline workflows, elevate creativity, and maximize client impact.Strategic Talent Acquisition and Leadership ReinforcementA pivotal element of Havas' transformation has been the influx of senior talent from major global competitors, including WPP, Publicis, Dentsu, and Pfizer. Throughout 2024 and 2025, several key leadership positions were filled across strategy, technology, client experience, and media operations. Notably, Fran?ºois Laroze expanded his role to Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, and Dan Hagen was appointed Global Chief Data & Technology Officer, signaling Havas?ÇÖ commitment to integrating strategy, finance, and digital operations globally.Optimistic Outlook for 2025 and BeyondLooking ahead, Havas projects organic revenue growth to exceed 2% in 2025, with an adjusted EBIT margin anticipated to be in the range of 12.5% to 13.5%. The company reaffirmed its mid-term EBIT margin target of 14?Çô15% by 2028 and a stable dividend payout ratio around 40%.Strategic priorities for the coming year include scaling customer experience capabilities, particularly in the U.S., expanding its brand, design, and advisory networks, growing its digital and entertainment services portfolio, and accelerating content-at-scale solutions globally. Havas?ÇÖ integrated model, combining creativity, data, and media, is strategically positioned to capitalize on secular growth trends in digital transformation, retail, and content personalization.

In the last 20 years, social media has changed the way public relations (PR) and the media work. In the past, newspapers, magazines, and TV were the most important forms of media. Now, it?ÇÖs a fast-paced, digital-first world. Instagram, TikTok, and X (previously Twitter) are some of the most important platforms for brands to communicate, audiences to interact, and news to be made and read. The Growth of social mediaThe social media age began in the early 2000s with sites like Friendster (2002), Myspace (2003), and Facebook (2004), which gave people new opportunities to communicate online. At first, people thought of these sites as informal, but when YouTube (2005) and Twitter (2006) included video sharing and real-time updates, they became more legitimate as ways to communicate. By the 2010s, sites like LinkedIn and Instagram made professional networking and visual storytelling more popular. As the number of users grew, traditional PR professionals became less sceptical. In 2012, Facebook had more than 1 billion members. It was evident that social media wasn't just a passing trend; it was changing how we talk to each other. Changing from passive to active media useOne of the biggest changes that social media has caused is how people take in information. People used to passively and, on a set, timetable read the morning paper or watched the nightly news. This situation changed completely when social media came around. People today get news and other entertainment on demand, usually through their phones. Algorithms create tailored feeds that include headlines, videos, memes, and live updates around the clock. The rise of short-form material like Reels, TikTok?ÇÖs, and Stories shows that people are moving toward media that is little, visual, and very interesting. People who watch are no longer passive. They respond, discuss, share, and make their own material, which makes media a two-way conversation. Because of this interactivity, marketers have had to make their messages more responsive, open, and conversational. News right away, reactions right awaySharing news in real time has become the norm thanks to social media. In just a few minutes, a single post can go viral and reach millions. The Arab Spring (2010?Çô2012) showed how platforms like Twitter made citizen journalism possible by giving people unedited news faster than traditional news sources. This speed creates both chances and problems. Brands can quickly react to trends or problems, but false information can also spread quickly. Before the facts are clear, a fake tweet or deceptive video can hurt people's reputations. PR teams need to work quickly, accurately, and carefully now. How to Deal with Online Outrage and Crisis CultureAs real-time interaction grows, so does the chance of real-time backlash. Cancel culture and viral criticism have made crisis communication harder by turning social media into a venue for public fury. The deportation of a passenger from United Airlines in 2017 and the infamous Pepsi ad that same year are two examples of how quickly people may turn against a company. Today, PR professionals need to keep an eye on social media all the time. They can use social listening technologies to find early warning indicators and respond immediately with empathy, accountability, or remedial action. No more delayed, bureaucratic answers. Brands need to be able to deal with problems within hours or even minutes. The Digital Shift in the PR IndustryAt first, a lot of PR firms were sluggish to change. Their main goals were still writing press releases, holding media briefings, and keeping in touch with reporters. But the industry had to change because clients' needs changed and they needed to be digitally savvy and take the initiative. Agencies started to hire people who were good at social media, making content, and analyzing data. Influencer marketing became a big part of the services offered. PR tactics become more unified, combining traditional media relations with digital outreach, real-time engagement, and managing an online reputation. Managing Instagram DMs and keeping an eye on Reddit threads are just as important to success in PR nowadays as pitching stories to reporters. The New Normal: Social Media in 2025Social media is a key part of every PR plan these days. TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and X are some of the most important places for brands to get noticed, create stories, and connect with their audiences. Influencer marketing has grown into a multi-billion-dollar business, and producers are often more powerful than traditional journalists. People today care more about things that are real and easy to relate to than things that are polished. People are more likely to believe a product evaluation from a friend on social media than a press release from a company. Brands need to use a tone that seems human and be open to having real discussions with customers. Being flexible, creative, and using facts to make decisions are the keys to success. Trends come and go swiftly, but those who can change with them do well. Print Media: Not Gone, But ChangedEven though digital media is more popular, print media is still useful, especially for in-depth reporting and trustworthiness. Thought leadership, politics, and financial news still need respected outlets. But paper can?ÇÖt keep up with the pace or reach of social media. Modern PR strategies include a mix of print and social media. Print is used for authority and depth, while social media is used for immediacy, reach, and engagement. When used together in the right way, both channels can do their own thing and work well together. Conclusion: A New DNA for CommunicationNot only have social media revolutionized the instruments of PR; they have also changed the way people talk to each other. Now, everything in the field, from spreading news and dealing with crises to establishing brands and getting people involved, happens in a more open, quick-moving, and dynamic setting. For businesses to do well in this new age, they need to put digital first, be flexible, pay attention to their customers, and be honest in their communication. Social media isn?ÇÖt just a component of the media landscape in 2025 and beyond; it is the landscape. 

Ruder Finn, the global integrated marketing and communications consultancy, has officially launched its fully combined office and regional headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Following the successful acquisition of boutique PR agency Atteline in 2023, the newly branded Ruder Finn Atteline now consolidates its operations in the Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in the agency?ÇÖs nearly decade-long presence in the MENA region.The Riyadh office signifies a deepened commitment to the Kingdom?ÇÖs dynamic communications landscape and aligns with Saudi Arabia?ÇÖs Vision 2030. The regional headquarters will soon unveil a series of strategic local partnerships, educational initiatives for communications professionals, and purpose-driven programs designed to support the Kingdom?ÇÖs ambitious transformation agenda.Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn, stated: "Ruder Finn Atteline's culture and innovation were key drivers in our merger. Their market-leading expertise in the MENA region complements our global ambitions, and we?ÇÖre inspired by the momentum of Vision 2030. This move allows us to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom?ÇÖs transformative journey."In line with Ruder Finn?ÇÖs global philosophy of ?Ç£What?ÇÖs Next,?Ç¥ which emphasizes early adoption of digital-first and data-driven solutions, Ruder Finn Atteline is set to enhance its creative communications capabilities in the region through its proprietary RF Tech Lab. The Lab offers cutting-edge analytics, AI-powered tools, and dual-language expertise, enabling clients in Saudi Arabia to leverage predictive insights, optimize brand strategy, and solve complex business challenges.Sophie Simpson, Managing Director of Ruder Finn Atteline ?Çô MENA, added:"Our presence in Saudi Arabia represents more than expansion?Çöit?ÇÖs a commitment to delivering smarter, stronger communications grounded in trust and innovation. With Ruder Finn?ÇÖs global backing and our cross-cultural team of 26 nationalities, we?ÇÖre uniquely positioned to help brands thrive in the Kingdom?ÇÖs evolving landscape."Ruder Finn Atteline already works with several multinational clients across 22 MENA markets and plans to further scale its operations in Saudi Arabia throughout 2025. Future announcements are expected to spotlight new initiatives designed to nurture local talent and foster industry-leading communications practices in the Kingdom.

As the MENA region rapidly transforms into a global hub for innovation, commerce, and strategic communication, Indian PR powerhouse Media Mantra Group is making a timely and ambitious move. Recently, the agency has opened its first international office in Dubai?Çömarking its formal entry into the Middle East and North Africa market.Over the past decade, Media Mantra has emerged as one of India?ÇÖs fastest-growing independent PR and integrated communications firms?Çönow ranked among the top 10 globally in terms of growth. In this exclusive interview, Udit Pathak, Founder Director, Media Mantra Group, shares the vision behind the expansion, how Media Mantra is adapting its India-honed expertise for the MENA landscape, and what it means to bridge two culturally vibrant markets with tailored communication solutions that resonate locally and globally.What motivated Media Mantra to expand into the MENA region?Media Mantra Group?ÇÖs expansion into the MENA region was a natural next step in our growth story. Over the years, we?ÇÖve worked with businesses that aim to establish a global footprint, and the Middle East has consistently emerged as a key market in that journey. With Dubai being a melting pot of international trade and media, it was the perfect launchpad for our first global office.Our presence in the region allows us to deliver locally resonant yet globally impactful campaigns. We bring deep regional understanding, strong media relationships, and innovative communication strategies tailored to the dynamic MENA market. Our digital-first, results-driven approach ensures that businesses?Çöwhether home-grown brands or international entrants?Çöreceive strategic communications support that drives visibility, credibility, and growth.What key opportunities do you foresee in the MENA region?ÇÖs PR and communications landscape, and which sectors?Çösuch as Government, IT, Retail, Real Estate, and E-Commerce?Çöhold the most potential for growth?The MENA region is evolving into a communication powerhouse. Governments are actively rebranding their economies, tech start-ups are disrupting industries, and e-commerce is growing at an exponential pace. PR and strategic communication have moved from being an afterthought to playing a pivotal role in shaping reputations and influencing market perception.Government-backed initiatives, like Saudi Arabia?ÇÖs Vision 2030 and Dubai?ÇÖs push to become a global tech hub, are creating massive opportunities. The real estate sector is booming, with luxury developments needing strong positioning, while e-commerce players are fighting for consumer mindshare in an increasingly digital-first landscape.I see these evolving opportunities as a chance to introduce fresh storytelling techniques and reputation management strategies that align with the region?ÇÖs fast-changing landscape. Our services, from public relations to digital marketing, are designed to support brands in these high-growth industries by amplifying their reach and credibility.How do you perceive the Middle East as a gateway for Indian brands looking to expand globally, and how is Media Mantra positioned to facilitate this expansion?The Middle East acts as a perfect bridge between India and the world. With its investor-friendly policies, strong trade relations with India, and position as a global business hub, it offers Indian brands an ideal testbed before scaling to Europe or the US.We?ÇÖve worked with Indian brands that have successfully expanded into new markets, and a key learning is that communication strategy must evolve with the geography. What works in India?Çöwhere mass outreach is key?Çömight need a more precision-driven, high-trust approach in the Middle East.For example, an Indian direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand entering the UAE needs to not only attract customers but also gain credibility in a space dominated by global competitors. This is where Media Mantra Group?ÇÖs expertise in localised PR, digital reputation management, and influencer collaborations becomes crucial. We don?ÇÖt just help brands enter the market; we ensure they make a lasting impact.What are the major similarities and differences between the Indian and MENA markets in terms of PR strategies, consumer behaviour, and media engagement?While both India and the MENA region are dynamic markets, their approach to communication varies significantly. India?ÇÖs scale demands high-volume media outreach across multiple languages and regions, whereas the MENA market values precision, credibility, and regulatory compliance.For example, influencer marketing has taken off in both regions, but in India, it leans toward mass engagement, while in MENA, micro-influencers with high trust levels among niche communities drive brand impact. Similarly, while Indian media thrives on breaking news and large-scale campaigns, the Middle East market values long-term relationship-building and reputation management.We, at Media Mantra Group, adapt our strategies accordingly. Whether it?ÇÖs shaping corporate narratives, handling crisis communications, or driving brand engagement, we ensure our approach is both culturally relevant and results-driven.How does the regulatory landscape for PR and marketing in the UAE differ from India, and what steps are you taking to adapt to these changes?The UAE has a well-defined regulatory framework for PR and marketing, with strict guidelines around advertising, media communications, and brand messaging. Content approvals, government regulations, and cultural sensitivities play a significant role in shaping communication strategies. Unlike India, where media engagement operates in a relatively open environment, the UAE requires brands to be mindful of content compliance, especially when it comes to advertising laws and public relations campaigns.At Media Mantra Group, we?ÇÖve built a structured compliance approach, working with regional experts to ensure our campaigns align with legal and cultural expectations. We have strengthened our ability to navigate these regulations seamlessly while maintaining the creativity and strategic impact that define our work.How is Media Mantra leveraging its decade-long experience in India to meet the specific needs of clients in the MENA region?With over a decade of experience in India?ÇÖs fast-moving PR and digital space, Media Mantra Group has mastered the art of agile communications. This adaptability is exactly what we bring to the MENA region, where businesses are scaling rapidly and need communication partners who can keep pace.Our integrated approach?Çöwhere PR, crisis management, brand storytelling, and digital marketing work in sync?Çöhas helped brands stand out in cluttered markets. Whether it's launching a new tech brand or positioning a luxury hospitality player, our strategies are built to drive visibility and credibility.A great example is how Media Mantra has worked with startups in India, helping them go from unknown entities to market leaders through a mix of strategic storytelling and high-impact media placements. We?ÇÖre now applying the same expertise in MENA, ensuring that brands?Çöwhether local or international?Çöcan cut through the noise effectively.What strategies are in place to ensure that your services are culturally and regionally relevant for brands in the Middle East?Cultural relevance is key to successful communication, especially in a region as diverse as the Middle East. At Media Mantra Group, we take a research-driven approach to understanding local audience preferences, media consumption habits, and regulatory frameworks.Our on-ground presence in Dubai allows us to craft campaigns that align with regional sensitivities. We also ensure that our content and messaging are available in both English and Arabic, making them accessible to a wider audience. Moreover, our team actively engages with local media houses, influencers, and key stakeholders to ensure that the brands we represent are positioned authentically and effectively within the market.How do you envision Media Mantra?ÇÖs role in shaping brand narratives in the MENA region, and what impact do you aim to create for clients there?Our role extends beyond PR; we aim to be trusted advisors who shape narratives that drive real business outcomes. Whether it?ÇÖs establishing thought leadership, managing crisis communications, or helping brands differentiate themselves, our focus is on delivering measurable impact.With a mix of traditional PR, digital campaigns, and crisis management solutions, we create customised strategies that drive visibility and business impact. Our focus is on delivering communications that are not only creative but also data-driven and aligned with business objectives.By bringing our expertise to the MENA region, we aim to elevate brand narratives and create long-term value for our clients.What are some key milestones you aim to achieve with Media Mantra Consulting MENA in the next five years?In the next five years, envision Media Mantra MENA as a top-tier PR and communications partner for brands across the region. Our focus will be on: ?Çó Expanding into key sectors like technology, e-commerce, and government communications.?Çó Strengthening our media network and industry partnerships.?Çó Launching innovative digital PR solutions tailored for the MENA market.?Çó Becoming the go-to agency for brands looking to scale internationally.Our expansion into the Middle East is just the beginning, and we are committed to making a lasting impact.

Shashank Rathod has joined Delhivery, a leading integrated logistics and supply chain services company in India, as its Director of Media & Communications. The appointment was recently announced, underscoring Delhivery's focus on strengthening its public presence and communication strategy.Rathod brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with over five years dedicated to Public Relations management at Amazon India. During his tenure at Amazon, he honed extensive expertise in corporate communications and media strategy, skills that will be crucial in his leadership position at Delhivery.At Delhivery, Rathod is expected to spearhead media outreach and brand communication initiatives. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the company's public image and ensure effective communication of its corporate developments and achievements.This move marks a significant step in Rathod's career, transitioning from one of the world's largest e-commerce and technology companies to a pivotal role within India's dynamic logistics sector. His proven track record in managing communications for a major corporation is anticipated to significantly contribute to Delhivery's ongoing growth and public engagement efforts.

One of India?ÇÖs foremost reputation leaders, Neeraj Jha, has announced the launch of Neeraj Jha Brand & Reputation Advisory, a strategic counsel practice focused on helping businesses build, protect, and enhance their most critical asset?Çöreputation. The advisory?ÇÖs launch is marked by a strategic partnership with the prestigious Institute of Directors (IOD), India, to bring reputation advisory into boardroom conversations, helping boards, promoters, and CXOs navigate the increasingly complex intersection of trust, transparency, and stakeholder expectation.A former Group President & Chief Communications Officer at Bajaj Group, and with leadership roles at Bharti Airtel, HDFC Bank, and Reliance, Neeraj brings nearly three decades of experience at the highest levels of journalism, corporate communications, and strategic brand leadership.?Ç£Reputation isn?ÇÖt just perception?Çöit is the sum of all the promises an organisation makes and keeps,?Ç¥ said Neeraj Jha. ?Ç£In a digitally connected, trust-deficient world, the brands and institutions that thrive will be those who lead with clarity, consistency, and conscience.?Ç¥Through his advisory, Neeraj will provide bespoke counsel to promoters, boards, family offices, and leaders on:?       Brand transformation?       Building narrative infrastructure ?       Reputation risk & strategy ?       Leadership positioning?       Stakeholder trust & narrative managementThe partnership with IOD will focus on integrating reputation foresight into board governance, through curated sessions, whitepapers, and engagement with India?ÇÖs leading business decision-makers.

Authored by: Dolly Tayal, Managing Director, Burson Genesis?"This is the right time for 'create in India, create for world' when the world is looking for new ways of storytelling." These were the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the opening of the WAVES Summit in Mumbai this month that sent a powerful message to the entertainment industry in India and from India to the world. The entertainment industry in India is having its moment ?Çô and this is not limited to films, OTT cricket broadcasts or even 24/7 news channels. It encompasses everything, from live entertainment to digital channels, films to the creator economy (dubbed the Orange Economy), music to gaming, radio and television (of all kinds). What we are seeing is an explosion of entertainment options for the Indian audience. The question, then, is: how does any platform strike a chord with this discerning group of people? How does one stand out from another? Where should brands place their bets? The short answer: audience engagement. The long answer? Read on. Transformers: Tech driving the riseAt the heart of the entertainment boom in the country is the major technological transformation it has been undergoing. Tech advancements, evolving audience behaviour and preferences, and bold, creative storytelling are changing how we create, deliver and consume content. This presents opportunities for brands to build enduring value through data driven strategies that drive authentic connections. After all, if the industry has been buoyed by technology, then the engagement should be, too. The first step is to understand the audience. AI-driven data analytics combined with qualitative intelligence can lead to a deeper understanding and insights to help connect with audiences in a way that feels genuine and meaningful. The galaxy of fans Entertainment needs its fans. To drive engagement among these fans, we need to give them more opportunities to become active participants. Whether they are watching a movie or attending a concert, or even listening to music, they need to be immersed in it and have a functional role to play. To truly win audiences?ÇÖ hearts, brands must embrace an innovative, strategic approach that prioritises genuine connection, shared values and a commitment to enriching the fan experience. The days of mass media dominating cultural conversations are over. Instead, we're seeing the rise of niche online forums, social media groups and streaming platforms that cater to the specific interests and passions of fans. Lord of the communitiesBrands need to map their target audiences to identify the specific communities and tailor their messaging accordingly. Communications play a vital role in identifying these communities, understanding their unique dynamics and crafting targeted strategies that resonate with their specific interests and values. To tap into the fan community, brands must offer something of substance, whether it's exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access or opportunities to connect with their favourite artists.Brands need to add value to fans?ÇÖ experiences and even amplify these experiences to generate buzz and curiosity. By driving fan-led initiatives, brands can be seen as valued members of the community and not outsiders. Such enriched experiences strengthen emotional ties and deepen loyalty. Small town heroesWith over 100 languages and a rapidly growing regional media landscape, non-metros now offer fertile ground for innovative outreach, making them integral to the entertainment industry?ÇÖs expansion and sustained relevance across India. Communications must follow suit. A targeted regional engagement can go a long way in building a lasting impact. Take the example of Zee TV, which uses the different regional festivals to run roadshows for its various religious shows. Or look at the number of content creators who create in local languages. The pulse of the nation is in its regions, and brands must have their finger on it. The (personalised) love storyThe core of a strong communications strategy is to ensure brands form a deeper relationship with audiences. And the strongest relationships are built on emotion. People might forget what they read in a pamphlet or see in an ad, but they will always remember how a brand made them feel. That deep connection is possible when brands connect with their audiences at a personal level, based on their unique needs.  The integration of AI in personalising strategies has become fundamental to building trust, driving retention and ensuring that communication is both relevant and powerful in the competitive entertainment landscape. Personalisation has to go beyond chatbots and using people?ÇÖs first names in communication, though. It must involve crafting entire customer journeys that resonate with individual personal aspirations, regional identities and viewing patterns. And it has to fit in a compelling story ?Çö like Prime Minister Modi said ?Çô a ?Ç£new way?Ç¥ of storytelling. Just like a great movie script, a brand's story needs to be emotionally resonant to leave a lasting impression. We need to drive the right narratives and messaging, crafting experiences that don?ÇÖt just inform but create a sense of belonging. The emotional imprint strengthens brand recall, making the experience a memory. The end creditsThe entertainment landscape is dynamic and ever evolving, and brands are in constant flux. They must adapt their strategies to stay ahead of the curve. By embracing authenticity, leveraging new age technologies and focusing on building long-term relationships with fans, brands can create enduring value in the hearts and minds of their target audiences. The future of entertainment PR lies in building genuine connections, fostering community and creating a narrative that builds a lasting impact on target audiences. For brands to win hearts in the entertainment sector, they must become valued members of the community, contributing to the shared experiences that bring people together.