Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has announced the appointment of Pradeep Shenoy as Executive Director, Corporate Communication, effective November 2025.With over three decades of experience in the life insurance sector, Shenoy has served in multiple leadership roles across India, including postings in Goa, Aurangabad, Hyderabad, Nashik, and Pune, where he headed four branches and two divisions.In his new capacity, Shenoy will oversee LIC’s corporate communication initiatives, focusing on strengthening public engagement and reinforcing the corporation’s reputation as a trusted financial institution.He holds a postgraduate degree in Mathematics and is a Fellow of the Insurance Institute of India. His professional background also includes advanced training from the National Insurance Academy, Pune, and the Indian School of Business, Chandigarh.

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has announced the appointment of Pradeep Shenoy as Executive Director, Corporate Communication, effective November 2025.With over three decades of experience in the life insurance sector, Shenoy has served in multiple leadership roles across India, including postings in Goa, Aurangabad, Hyderabad, Nashik, and Pune, where he headed four branches and two divisions.In his new capacity, Shenoy will oversee LIC’s corporate communication initiatives, focusing on strengthening public engagement and reinforcing the corporation’s reputation as a trusted financial institution.He holds a postgraduate degree in Mathematics and is a Fellow of the Insurance Institute of India. His professional background also includes advanced training from the National Insurance Academy, Pune, and the Indian School of Business, Chandigarh.

Pooja Mishra has joined NDTV as Senior Manager – Guest Relations and Outreach. She brings over 12 years of experience in corporate communications, brand management, public relations, and the social sector.Prior to NDTV, Mishra worked as Manager – Corporate Communication, Outreach and Events at ABP Network, where she managed high-profile events including the Ideas of India Summit, India@2047, The Southern Rising Summits, and large-scale music events like Roots & Rhythms.Mishra holds a postgraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. Her previous experience also includes work with the NGO Aide et Action – South Asia on labour migration and bonded labour issues, as well as a role at IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance Co. Ltd.

Rosetta Hospitality has appointed Gayatri Dravid as Group Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing. In her new role, Dravid will oversee the company’s communications, public relations, and integrated marketing efforts, including brand storytelling, media outreach, reputation management, and digital innovation.Dravid brings nearly two decades of experience in hospitality communications and brand strategy, having led marketing and PR initiatives for some of India’s leading hospitality brands. Her previous roles included managing pre- and post-opening communications for flagship properties and orchestrating strategic campaigns, luxury partnerships, and transformation initiatives that enhanced brand reputation and stakeholder engagement.At Rosetta Hospitality, Dravid will work closely with the management team to strengthen the group’s positioning in modern luxury and thoughtfully curated hospitality. She holds a degree from Pune University and has extensive experience in driving impactful narratives, managing high-performing teams, and executing successful brand activations, influencer programs, and guest engagement strategies.Her appointment is aimed at supporting Rosetta Hospitality’s growth strategy and enhancing its brand presence across multiple channels and markets.

Bizzcom Solutions, a fast-growing integrated Public Relations and Strategic Communications agency, has announced a significant global expansion, now offering PR services across 20+ countries including the UAE, UK, USA, Singapore, Canada, Australia, Germany, South Africa, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. This expansion marks a major milestone in the company’s mission to deliver borderless brand communication solutions to businesses worldwide.Over the past year, Bizzcom Solutions has onboarded a diverse portfolio of international clients in sectors such as technology, hospitality, healthcare, education, fintech, real estate, lifestyle, and sustainability. The agency now collaborates with global media networks, influencers, industry publications, and regional PR partners to offer seamless cross-country media outreach.Speaking on this global expansion, Praveen Tiwari, Founder of Bizzcom Solutions, said:“This expansion reflects our vision of building a truly global PR ecosystem powered by innovation, storytelling, and meaningful brand connections. We are not just growing in numbers but in capability, creativity, and global influence. Our goal is to help Indian brands go global and global brands connect deeply with Indian and Asian markets. This is just the beginning of a much larger journey.”With operations now spanning North America, Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia, Bizzcom Solutions is strengthening its international communications infrastructure through:Global Media Relations & Cross-Border PR CampaignsCEO Branding, Thought Leadership & Corporate ReputationCrisis Communication & Reputation ManagementDigital PR, Online Visibility & Media StrategyInvestor Relations & Startup Brand CommunicationThe agency is also launching a Global PR Alliance Program that connects businesses with local media networks and journalists in different countries, enabling faster and more targeted global visibility. This initiative will support startups and enterprises planning market entry or brand expansion in new regions."We are building a PR ecosystem where geography is no longer a barrier," added Tiwari. "With our strong media relationships and global partnerships, we aim to create brand impact that travels across borders."

Illumination PR has expanded its service offerings with the launch of DR Media Group, a new division dedicated to healthcare communications. The move marks the agency’s formal entry into the medical and wellness space, building on its longstanding success with clients in the aesthetics and healthcare sectors.Headquartered in Rye Brook, New York, Illumination PR has built a strong reputation over the past eight years representing lifestyle brands, influencers, and high-profile clients. The introduction of DR Media Group establishes a specialized focus on medical professionals, including doctors, clinics, and wellness brands, offering tailored PR strategies that combine industry compliance with creative storytelling.The new division aims to enhance visibility, credibility, and patient trust for healthcare clients through strategic media relations, digital reputation management, and business development initiatives. Leveraging Illumination PR’s expertise in media outreach and brand building, DR Media Group will provide end-to-end communication support for practices across sectors such as plastic surgery, dermatology, and medical aesthetics.DR Media Group will also build on Illumination PR’s record of securing placements in leading publications including Vogue, Forbes, Elle, and People Magazine, extending these opportunities to healthcare professionals seeking stronger brand recognition and market differentiation.The launch of DR Media Group signifies Illumination PR’s continued evolution, bridging its established influence in lifestyle storytelling with the growing demand for specialized, compliant, and effective communication in the healthcare industry.

Avian WE’s Managing Director and PRCAI Vice President, Neha Mehrotra, has been elected Vice President of the International Communications Consultancy Organisation (ICCO). The announcement marks a proud milestone for both Neha and the Avian WE team, reflecting her long-standing contribution to the communications industry in India and beyond.In a post on LinkedIn, Neha expressed gratitude to her colleagues, mentors, and friends at Avian WE, PRCAI, and now ICCO, acknowledging their role in shaping her journey. “This isn’t mine alone — it belongs to the incredible colleagues, mentors, and friends who have shaped me along the way,” she wrote, adding that she’s excited for what lies ahead with the global communications community.Avian WE shared the news with pride, calling it a recognition of Neha’s commitment to “shaping the future of our profession.” The agency noted that her appointment aligns with its belief in raising the bar for communications in India and beyond, and celebrated the achievement as a moment of collective pride.With over two decades at Avian WE, Neha has played a key role in leading strategy and planning for major clients, ensuring quality standards, and driving operations in the northern region. Her journey from regional leadership to global representation highlights her deep expertise and consistent impact across the communications landscape.Neha’s new role at ICCO further strengthens India’s representation in the global PR community — a testament to her leadership and the growing influence of Indian communications professionals on the world stage.

talabat MENA has appointed Chama Moumile as Regional Director of Communications, strengthening the company’s strategic communications across the Middle East and North Africa. In this role, she will work with executive leadership and communications teams across eight markets, including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, Oman, Jordan, and Egypt.Moumile will oversee corporate, consumer, and internal communications, focusing on integrated storytelling that highlights talabat’s innovation, ecosystem impact, and growth.Prior to joining talabat, Moumile led Corporate and Policy Communications at Trainline, Europe’s digital rail platform, and managed communications for Lime across France, Benelux, and Southern Europe. She began her career with Virgin Radio and Jeune Afrique, gaining experience in media relations, strategic communications, and public affairs.Moumile holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law and Political Science, a Master’s in Marketing and Communication, and has completed multiple leadership and communications programs at INSEAD.

Only 27% of GCC marcomms professionals say leadership teams in their organisations or divisions have equal or near-equal male-female representation, defined as 40-60% in favour of any gender. The vast majority (56%) have indicated low representation, while only 17% cited high representation. When it comes to the very top positions, 36% said a woman held the most senior role in their marcomms organisation or division, with a title of CEO, CMO, MD, or founder. This is up from 30% in 2024.Results were shared by The Marketing Society and Weber Shandwick, an Official Partner of Think Equal, the industry initiative that aims to accelerate gender equality in leadership across the marcomms industry in the GCC. The data captured insights from both men and women in regional marketing communications functions and conveys a distinct opportunity to strengthen gender balance at the top. Various studies have linked diverse leadership teams to improved performance and profitability.In terms of optimism levels, 68% of respondents say they are optimistic about future progress in gender equality in leadership roles within the GCC marcomms sector. The majority (56%) say they believe that progress has happened and is happening based on what they see, hear, and experience. Just over a quarter (28%) say the right moves in the right direction have started, however 16% feel no meaningful progress has been achieved.It’s noteworthy that this year’s survey recorded a drop in the number of respondents who said their company provides a female-focused training and development programme, echoing rollbacks globally in DEI initiatives. In contrast, The Marketing Society, TikTok and Weber Shandwick MENAT have launched The Leadership Accelerator, a six-month programme in 2026 for 12 exceptional female marcomms leaders in the UAE, who will benefit from masterclasses and mentorship. “Without question, being surrounded by views and perspectives that are different from our own, are incredibly valuable. They give us extra context, and new ways to look at things. And often, these different views come from women, making decision-making far more vigorous. The data from this survey indicates a need for more consistent, industry-wide efforts to create impactful change – not just for women, but also for the organisations that stand to benefit from this positive development,” said Ziad Hasbani, Regional CEO of Weber Shandwick MENAT.Survey results were shared by Alasdair Hall-Jones, Global Director of The Marketing Society and Katie Plant, Director at Weber Shandwick MENAT at a mixed-gender event titled ‘From Soft Power to Strategic Power’. The agenda also included an insightful conversation with advice, perspectives and tips for driving strategic power, based on the personal experiences shared by Suad Merchant, CMO, GEMS Education, Noreen Nasralla, SVP Marketing Strategy & Branding, Alef Group and Ghaleb Zeidan, Regional Managing Director, Weber Shandwick MENAT. Mariaan Valero, Head of Marketing & Content, Weber Shandwick MENAT moderated the session.A workshop and audience engagement led to the collective identification of the top 3 skills women need to focus on to help drive their strategic power: those being confident communication, persuasive influence, and negotiation. Other skills that ranked high were senior stakeholder management, business and commercial acumen, and relationship building and networking.The event’s workshop feedback and results from the survey will be used and developed by the Think Equal Working Committee, a group of industry professionals from both brands and agencies.

Lin-Hua Wu, who previously served as chief communications officer, will take on the role of chief communications and marketing officer starting November 3. Norm de Greve, formerly GM’s chief marketing officer, will move into the position of chief growth officer.Wu, 54, will be based in San Francisco and will report to both GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra in her capacity as chief communications officer, and to GM President Mark Reuss as chief marketing officer. De Greve, 56, who previously reported to Reuss, will now report to Wu.A GM spokesperson explained the move, saying the company has combined communications and marketing into a single team to “ensure a cohesive strategy across owned, earned, and paid media and increase overall impact for the business.”De Greve joined GM in July 2023 as senior vice president and chief marketing officer, taking over from Deborah Wahl, who retired in March. Wu joined GM in August 2023 as senior vice president and chief communications officer, succeeding Craig Buchholz. In her previous role, Wu reported solely to Barra.During her tenure as CCO, Wu and her team focused on expanding GM’s owned channels, launching the GM News site, and boosting engagement with creators and influencers, while advancing storytelling around the company’s technology and innovation initiatives.Before joining GM, Wu held the role of vice president of global communications and public affairs at Google for 2½ years. She also worked at Dropbox from 2016 to 2021, including as chief communications officer, and previously led corporate communications for Square (now Block).De Greve served as CMO at CVS Health for eight years prior to joining GM. He also spent over a decade at digital marketing firm Digitas, including as president of the Boston and Detroit offices, where he contributed to advancing digital marketing for GM.

Ogilvy has named Kirsty Muddle as the new CEO of Ogilvy Network ANZ, taking the reins of the agency’s operations across Australia and New Zealand. Muddle, a seasoned creative industry leader, will oversee all aspects of the network, including advertising, PR, social and influencer, customer engagement, consulting, and health services.Muddle joins Ogilvy from Dentsu, where she has been serving as CEO of Practices & Products for Australia and New Zealand. In that role, she led Dentsu’s practices in creative, PR, government, customer experience, Salesforce, insight, data and technology, commerce, and B2B marketing and media.With over 25 years of experience across a range of roles—from founding new businesses to leading large established organisations—Muddle brings a strong mix of media expertise, data and tech knowledge, and creative leadership. Her record includes building innovative strategies that help clients grow their brands while fostering connected, high-performing creative teams.Laurent Ezekiel, Global CEO of the Ogilvy Group, commented: “Kirsty has an undeniable track record of delivering real value and impact for clients. She deeply understands the complex challenges businesses face today and champions creativity not just for its own sake, but as a powerful force that can solve those challenges. Her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with clients, always putting their needs first, and her knack for bringing together diverse capabilities – from social and influencer to cutting-edge technology and data – to create truly impactful solutions, makes her an exceptional leader for Ogilvy in this key market. I look forward to working with her as we enter this next exciting chapter for Ogilvy.”Rose Herceg, WPP President for Australia and New Zealand, added: “When we searched for Ogilvy’s new leader, we felt we were asking for a unicorn – a modern marketer built for the emerging world, with strong business experience across the communications spectrum. In Kirsty, we found that rare blend; a genuine love for creativity that moves mountains, coupled with experience harnessing the disciplines that creativity needs to thrive in a dynamic, fast-moving media landscape. She was truly a standout choice, and we can’t wait to see the impact she’ll have at Ogilvy, bringing the kind of fresh, entrepreneurial perspective every business needs to stay ahead.”Speaking about joining Ogilvy, Muddle said: “Ogilvy is a place where every leader I’ve encountered has a strong point of view, saw change as an opportunity, and spoke with clarity about AI, data and integration but wasn’t lost in it. Importantly, they also never forgot why this business was born – the power of creativity to drive growth. That enduring belief made Ogilvy feel like home. I’m humbled to partner with an incredible set of clients and the exceptional talent within both Ogilvy and WPP to harness the network’s full power and collectively move us all forward into what’s next.”Before her time at Dentsu, Muddle was a founding partner at cummins&partners, where she spent 11 years establishing the agency’s creative reputation. She also worked for nine years at Mindshare in both the UK and Australia, honing her media expertise and exploring the intersection of human behaviour and data. In addition, Muddle has received multiple awards, including Woman of the Year and Executive of the Year twice, and serves on the boards of the Australian Council of Advertising (ACA), the Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA), and Ridgeway, an Indigenous social change agency.Muddle will officially join Ogilvy in early 2026. Her appointment comes at a time of momentum for the agency, which has recently won accounts including Tourism New Zealand and Specsavers. Ogilvy was also recognised at the 2025 APAC Effie Awards as Network of the Year, with wins including Gold in the Youth Marketing category for Ogilvy Sydney’s “A Masterclass in Government Sex Talks,” Silver for “Flying High in a Frugal World” for KFC, and two bronze awards.Kirsty Muddle succeeds Sally Kissane, who stepped down from the ANZ CEO position in July after 30 years with Ogilvy.

Duff brings over 15 years of experience in the communications industry, including running her own consultancy. Most recently, she served as head of communications for Dr Libby and her supplement company, Bio Blends.She has expertise across health, wellness, beauty, lifestyle, business, and property sectors, and is experienced in designing communications strategies that integrate earned and owned media to elevate client brands.Luci Marshall, founder and director of Rise & Shine PR, said: “Imogen is deeply aligned with our ethos and has built an enviable reputation as a senior communications specialist. She is skilled at driving brand awareness, building trusted reputations, and creating high-performing campaigns across varied and complex sectors. Imogen’s expertise and leadership will be a tremendous asset to both our clients and our team. Her skillset could not have come at a better time as we enter this next phase of growth.”Duff added: “In a world where so much is changing and automating, the power of PR, storytelling, and creative communication to engage audiences and inspire action has never been more important. I’ve long admired Luci and the exceptional work she and her team deliver at Rise & Shine and I’m excited to help grow the business while continuing to deliver meaningful, results-driven campaigns for clients.”

Special PR has announced the appointments of Julianna Permitin as senior PR director, Kale Dixon as senior PR executive, and Georgia Grindle as PR executive.Julianna Permitin returns to New Zealand after nearly three years in the UK, where she specialised in technology and corporate communications. Prior to that, she worked with Sling & Stone in New Zealand, handling corporate and consumer briefs for global brands and start-ups.“Special has always stood out to me as an agency that’s redefining comms in New Zealand,” said Permitin. “Bold, ambitious, and unafraid to do things differently. I wanted to keep the pace and energy of London ‘agency life’ going, and there’s no better place to do that than with a team that’s setting the pace for the industry itself.”Kale Dixon has stepped up into a senior PR executive role, having previously worked at Pead PR as a PR executive. Dixon will manage key accounts, including Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand, DB Breweries, and Datacom.“Joining Special is an exciting next step in my career. The agency’s bold creative vision and team culture has made transitioning into my new role absolutely seamless. I’m looking forward to growing my knowledge and capabilities here,” Dixon said.Georgia Grindle joined Special PR earlier this year as an intern after completing her Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Arts in 2024. In her new role as PR executive, she will support clients including Jaguar Land Rover, Restaurant Brands, and Moët Hennessy.“I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to start my career with such a great team and suite of clients, continuing to refine my skills and industry knowledge under Special’s guidance,” Grindle said.Kelly Grindle, managing director of Special PR, commented: “Special PR has been on an incredible trajectory of growth, new business wins, and most importantly, some incredible work. Our team is what makes us ‘Special’ and I’m thrilled to have three new members join us on our mission to deliver some of the freshest PR thinking in the region.”

Veeam has appointed Milk & Honey PR as its hub agency partner for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) following a competitive pitch. The partnership will see Milk & Honey lead PR strategy across the region, including market-focused storytelling, executive profiling, earned media, and content development.The agency will work closely with Veeam’s global, regional, and in-market teams to enhance the company’s visibility and reputation among CXOs, technology leaders, partners, and the wider APJ business community.Veeam provides data resilience solutions that protect businesses from cyber-attacks, natural disasters, and system outages, ensuring continuity of operations. The new PR programme will support the company’s growth and enterprise expansion in the region, while also advancing its SaaS-first and AI-powered solutions strategy.The collaboration reflects a wider trend of tech companies strengthening PR capabilities in APJ, aligning communications to regional business priorities and technology advancements.

Authored By: Pooja Mishra, Founder & Director, Outlook PRPublic relations in 2025 feels different. Technology is everywhere now. It shapes how we plan, write, and measure everything we do. But even with all the data and systems around us, PR still runs on people. Stories only work when they feel real. Tools can help, but they cannot replace instincts, empathy, or trust.Most agencies have stopped experimenting and started building proper systems. The Cision-PRWeek Comms Report says about one in four professionals now use automated tools regularly. Almost half use them when needed. Many companies have started writing their own rules for how to use these tools responsibly. Some are even building in-house systems instead of buying ready ones. The goal is not speed alone. It is control, creativity, and clarity.Content creation has changed the most. Teams now run quick checks to polish writing or adjust tone before publishing. Market research takes minutes instead of days. Tools can scan what brands are saying and what audiences are reacting to. Writers go into pitches with sharper insights and clearer direction. It saves time and improves the story.Measurement has also come a long way. For years, PR struggled to prove its worth. That gap is closing fast. New analytics can now connect campaigns to real outcomes like sales, engagement, even shifts in sentiment. The old ad-value method is fading. Communicators can now walk into a boardroom and show how their work drives business results. It gives the profession the respect it always deserved.Media outreach looks very different too. Real-time trend tracking has changed the game. Teams can now spot what’s picking up online and respond before the news cycle peaks. Personalization is sharper than ever. Instead of sending the same pitch to fifty journalists, tools help teams tailor each message. They study past articles, tone, and timing to suggest what might click. Predictive tools even tell you when a story has the best chance of landing.But here’s the thing. All this still means little without human sense. A smart tool can tell you who to pitch to, but it cannot read the room. It cannot sense when a journalist is tired of the topic or when a brand needs to pause. Relationships still need warmth and patience. No tool can replace that. PR will always depend on trust, not technology.The jobs inside PR are also changing. Analysts and strategists who can read both data and emotion are now key. People who can switch between creative thinking and technical work are in demand. New skills like automation management and trend analytics sit next to classic ones like writing and media planning. Colleges and training institutes have caught on. Many of them are rewriting what they teach. Students now spend less time memorizing theories and more time solving real problems. Writing press notes, reading data, understanding audience behaviour, and managing small teams. The idea is to prepare them for the mix of logic and gut instinct that real PR work demands.Still, the shift is not simple. Many professionals admit they struggle to explain what these systems actually do to clients. That confusion can hurt credibility. Then there’s the bigger question of ethics. How we use data, what we share, and what we keep private. The pressure to stay transparent has never been higher. Every piece of insight now needs to be verified, traceable, and fair.In the end, technology will keep getting better, faster, and smarter. But good communication will still come down to how we make people feel. PR has always been about influence built on honesty and timing. Machines can help us measure better, write faster, and reach wider. But they cannot replace the human ability to listen, pause, and speak from experience. That is where the real future of PR lies, in people who can blend both worlds without losing themselves in either.DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and theprpost.com does not necessarily subscribe to it.

Authored By: Pooja Mishra, Founder & Director, Outlook PRPublic relations in 2025 feels different. Technology is everywhere now. It shapes how we plan, write, and measure everything we do. But even with all the data and systems around us, PR still runs on people. Stories only work when they feel real. Tools can help, but they cannot replace instincts, empathy, or trust.Most agencies have stopped experimenting and started building proper systems. The Cision-PRWeek Comms Report says about one in four professionals now use automated tools regularly. Almost half use them when needed. Many companies have started writing their own rules for how to use these tools responsibly. Some are even building in-house systems instead of buying ready ones. The goal is not speed alone. It is control, creativity, and clarity.Content creation has changed the most. Teams now run quick checks to polish writing or adjust tone before publishing. Market research takes minutes instead of days. Tools can scan what brands are saying and what audiences are reacting to. Writers go into pitches with sharper insights and clearer direction. It saves time and improves the story.Measurement has also come a long way. For years, PR struggled to prove its worth. That gap is closing fast. New analytics can now connect campaigns to real outcomes like sales, engagement, even shifts in sentiment. The old ad-value method is fading. Communicators can now walk into a boardroom and show how their work drives business results. It gives the profession the respect it always deserved.Media outreach looks very different too. Real-time trend tracking has changed the game. Teams can now spot what’s picking up online and respond before the news cycle peaks. Personalization is sharper than ever. Instead of sending the same pitch to fifty journalists, tools help teams tailor each message. They study past articles, tone, and timing to suggest what might click. Predictive tools even tell you when a story has the best chance of landing.But here’s the thing. All this still means little without human sense. A smart tool can tell you who to pitch to, but it cannot read the room. It cannot sense when a journalist is tired of the topic or when a brand needs to pause. Relationships still need warmth and patience. No tool can replace that. PR will always depend on trust, not technology.The jobs inside PR are also changing. Analysts and strategists who can read both data and emotion are now key. People who can switch between creative thinking and technical work are in demand. New skills like automation management and trend analytics sit next to classic ones like writing and media planning. Colleges and training institutes have caught on. Many of them are rewriting what they teach. Students now spend less time memorizing theories and more time solving real problems. Writing press notes, reading data, understanding audience behaviour, and managing small teams. The idea is to prepare them for the mix of logic and gut instinct that real PR work demands.Still, the shift is not simple. Many professionals admit they struggle to explain what these systems actually do to clients. That confusion can hurt credibility. Then there’s the bigger question of ethics. How we use data, what we share, and what we keep private. The pressure to stay transparent has never been higher. Every piece of insight now needs to be verified, traceable, and fair.In the end, technology will keep getting better, faster, and smarter. But good communication will still come down to how we make people feel. PR has always been about influence built on honesty and timing. Machines can help us measure better, write faster, and reach wider. But they cannot replace the human ability to listen, pause, and speak from experience. That is where the real future of PR lies, in people who can blend both worlds without losing themselves in either.DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and theprpost.com does not necessarily subscribe to it.

Joint Commission has tapped Laura Ryan, a seasoned healthcare and corporate communications expert, as its new chief marketing and communications officer, effective Oct. 13. Ryan joins from Ruder Finn, where she headed U.S. Corporate Communications, bringing over 25 years of integrated marketing and communications experience to the position."Joint Commission has set the standard for healthcare quality and safety for decades – that said, the healthcare landscape has never been more dynamic or complex. We understand the value strong, smart, clear communications plays in ensuring our many stakeholders fully understand and appreciate our collective mission to continuously improve healthcare quality and safety for all," said Jonathan B. Perlin, MD, PhD, president and CEO, Joint Commission. "Laura's track record in brand positioning, strategic communications and brand management makes her the perfect choice to support our efforts in fully articulating and communicating our important story to the healthcare community and beyond."Reporting directly to Dr. Perlin, Ryan will spearhead all marketing, branding and communications initiatives, overseeing internal, external and executive communications, digital marketing and stakeholder engagement. Her focus will be on making Joint Commission's standards, quality improvement resources and new initiatives more accessible, understood and appreciated more broadly across the healthcare landscape."It is a particularly exciting time to be joining Joint Commission, with the organization at such a pivotal time in its evolution as it enhances its role in the future of healthcare in the U.S. and around the globe," Ryan said. "This incredible organization makes a real difference in supporting patient care and safety, and being part of a leadership team that is not only mission-driven but one that's reshaping the future of healthcare quality is both humbling and incredibly gratifying."Previously, Ryan was managing director at Ruder Finn, where she guided clients from many industries through complex business and reputational challenges. Prior to Ruder Finn, Ryan led the U.S. corporate practice for Cohn & Wolfe and held senior corporate leadership positions at Ketchum and Burson-Marsteller. She has significant experience in healthcare communications, having worked with leading pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations and major health systems including Cleveland Clinic, Biogen, Sanofi, Boehringer Ingelheim and Takeda Pharmaceuticals.In addition to working with leading agencies, Ryan brings valuable in-house perspective from her time at Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and the American Osteopathic Association where she gained firsthand understanding of healthcare operations and the regulatory environment.Ryan earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism and political science from the University of Iowa and her master’s degree in communications from Northwestern University.

Caroline Dettman has joined World Business Chicago as Interim Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Growth Operations. “Chicago may be known as the ‘Second City,’ but the truth is, it’s second to none,” she wrote on LinkedIn. “I’m proud to share that I’ve joined World Business Chicago as Interim Chief Marketing Officer & Head of Growth Operations. I am helping lead a bold, future-forward marketing strategy designed to unleash Chicago’s inclusive economic potential through business and talent attraction.”Caroline brings extensive experience in marketing, communications, and brand strategy, having previously served as Chief Marketing & Creative Officer at The Female Quotient and as Founding Partner of Have Her Back, a women-owned marketing and communications consultancy.At World Business Chicago, she is focused on creating brand visibility, sustaining business development, optimizing assets for AI and thought leadership, and launching campaigns to highlight Chicago’s inclusive economic growth. She also partners closely with the CEO and other leadership to build organizational strategy and measurable growth goals.

Megan Thomas has joined Avoq as Vice President of Reputation Management. “Thrilled to announce that I’m joining Avoq as Vice President of Reputation Management! After 25 remarkable years in journalism at CNN, most of which I've spent with a focus on California and the entertainment industry, I’m eager to bring my editorial expertise to this new role,” she wrote on LinkedIn.Megan spent nearly a decade at CNN as Managing Editor – Entertainment, leading a team of editors and writers and overseeing coverage of popular culture and the entertainment industry. She also worked as a Senior Editor, Senior Producer, and Producer across CBS News, NBC News, and CNN Special Projects, gaining extensive experience in multi-platform journalism and production.At Avoq, she will focus on helping clients build brand trust and credibility. “At Avoq, I’m excited to use that experience to help clients build brand trust and credibility in an increasingly complex media environment,” she said. She will also work on expanding Avoq’s presence on the West Coast and connecting with fellow communications professionals.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company has appointed Michelle Russo as its inaugural chief communications officer, a newly created role aimed at strengthening the company’s strategic communications and brand presence. Russo officially joined the company on Monday.In her role, Russo will oversee corporate, brand, internal, and agency communications, guiding efforts that align with State Farm’s strategic priorities and cultural evolution. She leads a team of roughly 100 people and reports directly to CEO Jon Farney. Interestingly, the company also has an SVP named Michele Russo in its C-suite.Russo comes to State Farm from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where she served as chief communications and marketing officer since 2019. At the Chamber, she led initiatives across brand, media, digital, and thought leadership. She announced her departure last month after more than six years with the organization.“It has been an honor to work alongside a talented team to champion American businesses and shape the Chamber’s voice during pivotal moments, from a global pandemic to a CEO transition to multiple political cycles and numerous policy debates,” Russo wrote in a LinkedIn post. “I am proud of the impact we delivered and the innovation we sparked, fortifying the Chamber as a stable, forward-looking institution at a time of constant change and uncertainty.”Before her tenure at the Chamber, Russo spent more than 14 years at Discovery as head of global communications. She managed crisis responses during international events, directed communications and public affairs strategies for the company’s Olympic Games involvement, and played a key role in Discovery’s debut as a publicly traded company, according to State Farm.Founded in 1922, State Farm is a network of mutual insurance companies across the U.S., headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois. The company reported $123 billion in total revenue for 2024, up from $104.2 billion the previous year, and posted net income of $5.3 billion, rebounding from a $6.3 billion loss in 2023.

Adgcraft, one of India’s most trusted PR agencies, has announced the launch of its new office in Bengaluru, Karnataka. This strategic move towards expansion will mark a major achievement in the agency’s PR journey. The Bengaluru office will play a crucial role in strengthening Adgcraft’s verticals - Adgcraft Communications, Adgcraft AI, and Adgcraft Global. Adgcraft is aligning with its long-term goal of building a strong manpower of 25+ ideal members and a future-ready workforce in the new office by 2026 under the mentorship of top-industry veterans. With this expansion, Adgcraft underscores its commitment to delivering innovative and impactful PR solutions tailored for India’s fast-evolving communication landscape.The new office at Awfis, Samrah Plaza, St Mark's Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56000, is set to focus on serving startups, corporates, tech-corporates, and companies in the field of Artificial Intelligence, positioning itself in the heart of India’s innovation and technological hub with thousands of IT companies and global tech giants. Adgcraft will leverage its deep expertise and client-first approach for its clients in achieving public relations and communication goals. The company has a track record in designing communication strategies and handling diverse PR mandates, focusing on the client’s demands and needs, making it a trusted partner for businesses seeking to enhance their reputation, visibility, and engagement in India and globally. With this expansion to the tech hub, the company will also drive key operations in social media, performance marketing, video production, and event management.Abhinay Kumar Singh, Managing Director of Adgcraft, being passionate and enthusiastic about this new launch, said, “We are excited to open our new office in Bengaluru, the Tech Capital of India, as it is India’s biggest startup and technology hub. Expanding our roots there will strengthen Adgcraft’s presence. Being a PR and Communications service provider, we are working with more than 200 brands and companies. With our expansion, our vision is to empower brands by combining creativity with strategy, and this launch takes us one step closer to achieving that goal, so we are excited to work even harder and smarter to continue with the expansion process.”Over the years, Adgcraft has established itself as one of the most trusted names in the Public Relations industry, working with clients across sectors, including BFSI, lifestyle, hospitality, corporate, and emerging tech. The agency has successfully collaborated with international clients from the USA, South Korea, and other global markets, while also providing strategic communication support to numerous Indian startups. Its achievements in brand building, reputation management, and crisis communications highlight its ability to deliver results-driven PR strategies and campaigns.Guided by its vision to be a one-stop solution provider for comprehensive PR and brand communications, Adgcraft operates with the motto of “Your story is your strength, and communication is ours.” 

Randa Stephan has announced that she is taking on additional responsibilities as Global Chief Corporate Strategy Officer at Burson, alongside her current position as Global Chief Brand Officer.Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Stephan wrote, “New(ish) chapter, same mission. Alongside leading Burson’s brand through global marketing & communications, I’m excited to take on additional responsibilities as Global Chief Corporate Strategy Officer, focused on accelerating the capabilities and solutions our clients need most.”In this expanded role, she will continue to build on Burson’s momentum from its first year, focusing on strengthening how the agency shows up for clients and shaping initiatives that bring its values to the forefront. “The focus is strengthening how we show up for clients and shaping strategic initiatives that bring even more of our values to the industry, our amazing alumni and future leaders,” she added.Stephan also reflected on the importance of mentorship and support in career growth, noting, “Every career step is possible because of an advocate (or a handful of them). I am grateful for mine.”Based in the New York City Metropolitan Area, Stephan has been with Burson for over a year, previously serving as Global Chief Brand Officer before stepping into her new, expanded remit in October 2025. She led Burson’s brand launch, steering the newly merged team through brand development and implementation across more than 40 markets.Before joining Burson, Stephan served as Global Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Hill & Knowlton, where she oversaw the global rebrand and managed communications around the merger between Hill & Knowlton and BCW Global. Her earlier career includes senior leadership roles at Weber Shandwick, where she led the agency’s brand transformation, and at The Wall Street Journal, where she co-launched WSJ Custom Studios, the publisher’s first global content marketing practice.With a career spanning marketing, communications, and brand transformation across major global agencies, Stephan continues to shape the intersection of brand, reputation, and strategic growth at Burson.

Bridgers, India’s leading integrated communications agency, today announced that the company has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Kanpur’s Entrepreneurship Cell for the 2025 edition of UpStart, its flagship pitching event focused on empowering startups and entrepreneurs across India. The partnership will see Bridgers assist the IIT Kanpur E-Cell with end-to-end communications solutions, highlighting the impact of UpStart 2025 across India. The event is set to begin with its Nationals edition in Delhi (October 11th), Bengaluru (November 8th) ,Hyderabad (November 1st) and Mumbai (December 6th) ahead of the Finals at IIT Kanpur in January 23-25, 2025.The partnership will also see Bridgers work closely with the IIT Kanpur E-Cell, helping them to amplify the brand voice of UpStart 2025 with strategic campaigns and community-first storytelling. Bridgers will also work on establishing an authentic narrative that uniquely positions IIT Kanpur and its E-Cell as growth-focused entities in both national and regional media. As part of the MoU, Bridgers will also be integrating reputation management as a service for the event and IIT Kanpur E-Cell in general, bolstering its positioning across the country.Speaking on the MoU, Anubhav Singh, Founder of Bridgers, said, “It is a delight to collaborate with a premier institution of IIT Kanpur’s stature, and its Entrepreneurship Cell for us. Startup Communication has been one of our fortes over the years, and to assist the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs by contributing to IIT Kanpur’s vision through the E-Cell, we feel that it is the perfect combination of services and responsibility. As media partners of IIT Kanpur E-Cell’s UpStart 2025, we will look forward to positioning our stakeholders to the pinnacle of success and contribute to the country’s Viksit Bharat vision by 2047.”Laksh Bansal of IIT Kanpur E-Cell, also shared his insights on the collaboration, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Bridgers as the official Media Partner for IIT Kanpur Entrepreneurship Cell’s flagship pitching event, UpStart 2025. At IIT Kanpur, our goal is to contribute to the country’s emerging startup ecosystem by assisting entrepreneurs with crucial and relevant support, and with Bridgers, highlighting the impact of this event has become more streamlined than ever. We are looking forward to a fruitful partnership ahead, contributing to our shared vision of empowering tomorrow’s founders and unicorns.”The partnership between Bridgers and IIT Kanpur E-Cell will see the former assisting across all targeted cities for the Nationals, i.e., Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, along with the Finals at IIT Kanpur in January 23-25, 2025. The impact of the collaboration will extend beyond enhancing media presence, but also establishing a robust relationship with the selected startups and the national & regional media, along with the strategic stakeholders. This proactive relationship will include operational agility through both traditional and new-age media verticals, establishing brand recalls for IIT Kanpur E-Cell, UpStart 2025, along with the selected startups nationwide.

According to media reports, Edelman has announced key leadership changes as it accelerates its focus on AI and transformation in communications and marketing. Mainardo de Nardis, board member and former OMD Worldwide CEO, has been appointed global president and chief operating officer, while Brian Buchwald has been promoted to president of global transformation and performance. Matthew Harrington transitions to the role of executive chair.The reshuffle aligns with Edelman’s goal to enhance its operational efficiency, expand its creative capabilities, and compete more directly for broader marketing budgets.As part of its innovation agenda, Edelman introduced the Edelman Central Operating System (ECOS), an AI-driven platform designed to integrate internal workflows, client engagement, and generative AI tools from partners such as OpenAI and Microsoft. The platform connects with enterprise systems like Workday and supports campaign coordination and performance tracking across global teams.Buchwald, who has overseen the initiative, is driving the integration of AI across operations, while the firm continues to develop Archie, Edelman’s proprietary large language model focused on brand trust and cultural analysis.With these developments, Edelman aims to strengthen its position at the intersection of earned media, data, and AI, driving measurable impact and deeper client partnerships globally.

The Marcom Avenue (TMA), one of India’s fastest-growing integrated marketing and communications agencies, has been awarded the Public Relations and Social Media mandate by the Trade Fairs Division of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for the 16th International Railway Equipment Exhibition 2025 to be held at Bharat Mandapam on October 15th to 17th 2025. This new mandate win marks a significant milestone for TMA portfolio, reinforcing its capabilities in managing large-scale institutional communications and thought leadership narratives.Under the duties and responsibilities of the mandate, TMA is in the process of planning and and executing a comprehensive communications strategy for CII, encompassing traditional PR, media outreach, social media optimization and campaign development including video campaigns and podcasts. The goal is to strengthen CII’s voice as India’s premier business association, amplifying its policy advocacy, industry initiatives, and global collaborations.A key highlight of this partnership will be the India International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE), organised by CII in association with the Ministry of Railways. As Asia’s largest rail transportation event, IREE presents a unique opportunity to showcase India’s advancements in rail technology and infrastructure to a global audience. The Marcom Avenue will play a pivotal role in driving visibility for the event, amplifying conversations across media and digital platforms, and positioning CII as a catalyst of industry-government partnerships. Said – B Thiagarajan, Chairman, Trade Fair Council, CII. “CII is the India’s apex industry and economy policy advocacy body, and serves as an anchor & bridge between India’s private sector and the nation’s growth agenda. With this mandate win, we aim to amplify CII’s role in shaping conversations that matter, whether it’s through policy advocacy, industry transformation, or global forums like IREE. Our focus will be on building meaningful narratives that highlight India’s innovation, resilience, and leadership on the world stage.” Divanshi Gupta, Founder & Director of The Marcom Avenue commented. Through this mandate, TMA will provide a 360-degree PR and digital communications approach, helping CII reach new audiences, strengthen stakeholder trust, and drive greater engagement across its initiatives.

Varsha Chainani, a communications veteran with nearly four decades of experience, has launched The Light Wellness Company following her departure from Vedanta Group.The new venture focuses on empowering leaders and professionals to achieve clarity, confidence, and purpose during periods of personal and professional transition. It combines Chainani’s expertise as a communicator, coach, and wellness practitioner to provide holistic guidance and support, aiming to foster harmony and transformation in both work and life.Throughout her career, Chainani has held senior roles at leading organizations including Mahindra Group, Adani, Abbott Laboratories, IBM, and others, building extensive experience in strategic communications and leadership development.

Media Corridors, a communications and public relations consultancy, has introduced a refreshed brand identity reflecting the agency’s evolution and forward-looking vision.The updated branding includes a new logo that incorporates a speech-bubble motif, with the word “Media” in bright blue and “Corridors” in golden-yellow. The new identity has also been implemented across the agency’s website, mediacorridors.com.The rebrand emphasizes the agency’s focus on innovation, strategy, and helping clients enhance visibility and recognition. The logo, color scheme, and website design collectively convey energy, clarity, and approachability while representing the agency’s purpose of turning stories into meaningful impact.

DPDzero, a leading debt collections company redefining the future of debt resolution in India, has appointed The Media Manifest (TMM) as its strategic public relations partner to drive impactful media communications. Through this collaboration, DPDzero aims to strengthen its brand visibility, build thought leadership, and drive meaningful conversations around AI innovation and trust in the collections ecosystem.The company recently raised $7M in a Series A funding round, fuelling its growth journey as it scales operations and doubles down on building a fair, transparent, and technology-led approach to collections.As India’s debt collections landscape evolves with technology-led interventions and regulatory focus on fair practices, DPDzero has been at the forefront of offering ethical, data-driven, and customer-friendly collection solutions to financial institutions and businesses. Partnering with The Media Manifest will help amplify DPDzero’s voice in the industry and engage effectively with stakeholders across financial services, fintech, and policy ecosystems.Nupur Maheswari, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, said: “We are thrilled to partner with DPDzero in their journey of transforming the collections space in India. Debt collection is often viewed through a difficult lens, and DPDzero is challenging that perception by building a humane, AI-enabled, and transparent approach. Our role will be to strategically position DPDzero’s narrative and ensure their pioneering work gets the visibility it deserves.”The partnership reflects DPDzero’s commitment to reinforcing its leadership in the debt collections industry while ensuring its mission of ethical collections resonates with the wider ecosystem.

Google has announced the appointment of Gaurav Bhaskar to head its Communications & Public Affairs function for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Bhaskar, who has been with Google for over 16 years, recently shared his excitement about taking on the expanded role, which covers India, Southeast Asia, and South Asia.In a post announcing the move, he said, “It’s been an incredible 16-year journey so far, and this next step feels like the most exciting one yet. Leading Comms for India, Southeast Asia & South Asia has been a profound privilege. I’m immensely proud of what we have accomplished and grateful for the lessons in leadership and innovation I’ve learned across these dynamic markets.”The new role comes at a time when the APAC region is rapidly adopting artificial intelligence, and Bhaskar emphasized the importance of shaping communications strategies that foster growth while creating inclusive opportunities.Bhaskar has held several senior positions at Google over the years, including Senior Director, Corporate Communications & Public Affairs for India, Southeast Asia, and South Asia since 2022, and has been part of Google India in various communications roles since 2009. Prior to joining Google, he led corporate communications at Rediff.com and served as Deputy General Manager at Vaishnavi Corporate Communication Pvt. Ltd, handling clients in the IT and telecom sectors.Reflecting on his journey, Bhaskar acknowledged the teams and mentors who supported him, adding, “This journey would be impossible without the people who have been part of it. I’m deeply grateful for the trust and partnership of all the leaders I’ve worked with and for the creativity and dedication of my incredible teams, you are the ones who make the magic happen.”Based in Singapore, Bhaskar now takes on the challenge of leading communications for one of Google’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions, aiming to champion an AI-powered future that addresses real-world challenges and unlocks human potential.

Every week, culture hands us a fresh carousel of moments – some that dazzle, some that divide, and others that quietly reshape the narrative. In this edition of Trend Spotting, Adgully takes a deep dive into the stories that caught fire on timelines, sparked public debate, and pushed brands to lean deeper into emotion, identity, and innovation. Kantara Chapter 1: A Mythic Return with Real-World Buzz Cinema once again proved its unmatched pull as Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara Chapter 1’ stormed into theatres on October 2. Touted as the prequel to the 2022 breakout hit, the film delivers a heady blend of folklore, divinity, and visual storytelling rooted deeply in native traditions. The anticipation wasn’t just local – the first instalment had achieved cult status even outside Kannada-speaking regions. With Chapter 1 now receiving widespread acclaim, Shetty’s auteur status in Indian cinema is solidified. The trailer alone was enough to set social media ablaze, and the film’s early success hints at a growing appetite for regional stories with universal soul. Ekta Kapoor Surprises with Her First Ad — and It’s Not for a Soap OperaWhen Ekta Kapoor, the queen of Indian TV melodrama, enters a space, she rarely goes unnoticed. This week, she took a left turn from her usual territory and starred in her first-ever commercial – a collaboration with home-salon startup Yes Madam. While unexpected, the move makes strategic sense. Kapoor’s presence lends the startup not just instant recall but a credibility boost rooted in her trusted onscreen image. The campaign rides on her storytelling aura, reframed for the modern woman’s lifestyle. The internet, naturally, had thoughts – most of them applauding her crossover into brandland. ‘Bigg Boss Kannada’ Kicks Off with a Twist — and a Trending EvictionLove it or loathe it, ‘Bigg Boss’ remains reality TV’s biggest spectacle. The Kannada edition wasted no time diving into drama with a shock early eviction – actress Rakshita – which sent fans into a frenzy. What’s notable is that the show's buzz spilled beyond regional borders, trending nationally and proving that format + emotion + controversy still equals viral gold. Twitter/X lit up with theories, memes, and fan wars – a sign that the show is still a cultural tentpole, especially in India’s second-screen economy. Vivo V60e Taps Into Festive Feels with Culture-First Influencer Play While smartphone launches often get lost in a sea of spec sheets, Vivo V60e took a refreshing route – embedding its campaign into India’s festive pulse. Through influencer collaborations capturing the vibrancy of Durga Puja and Garba nights, the brand went for resonance over hard-sell. By aligning the product with cultural rituals and visual storytelling, Vivo smartly positioned itself not just as a device, but as a companion for celebration. The approach reflects a rising trend in tech marketing – emotional relevance over product push.Spykar’s ‘Genes’ Play: Inspired or Imitated?Denim brand Spykar made waves this week with a two-pronged creative approach – first, launching its “It’s in Our Jeans/ Genes” podcast, and second, a bold youth-driven campaign, “Daur Apna Hai”, featuring hip-hop artists like Wicked Sunny and The Vixens Crew. While fans loved the energy, critics pointed to similarities with global ads like American Eagle’s Sydney Sweeney campaign and Gap’s Katseye spot. Still, Spykar’s desi twist and unapologetic millennial/Gen Z tone helped it hold ground. Whether it’s homage or a creative remix, the brand got people talking—and that’s half the battle won. ‘Tere Ishq Mein’ Sparks a ‘Raanjhanaa’ RenaissanceThe trailer for ‘Tere Ishq Mein’ dropped this week, and immediately, the internet drew emotional parallels to 2013’s ‘Raanjhanaa’. The visual and thematic cues – unrequited love, fervent devotion, and emotional turmoil – struck a nostalgic chord. Whether intentional or incidental, the comparisons have fueled anticipation. Bollywood, after all, thrives on emotional archetypes. In a sea of massy entertainers, this film’s heart-on-sleeve tone has cinephiles ready for a tear-stained trip down memory lane. The Takeaway: Culture Is the Currency – And Storytelling Still Reigns SupremeFrom mythology-fuelled blockbusters and ad-world curveballs to digital-first campaigns grounded in cultural rituals, this week has shown that India’s entertainment and marketing ecosystems run on emotional electricity. What’s resonating isn’t just what’s trending – it’s what’s meaningful, what’s personal, and what feels rooted. Whether it’s a denim brand channeling heritage, a tech brand syncing with the festive rhythm, or an ad queen becoming the face of at-home beauty, the real magic lies in storytelling that taps into identity. The message is clear: In the cluttered digital arena, what you say matters – but how you make people feel matters more. 

MindBridge Global announced that its founder and principal, Anita Gupta, has been appointed senior advisor at Panterhei Corporate Advisors, a European partner-led consultancy specializing in strategic communications.Gupta brings over 30 years of executive experience across financial services, logistics, and consumer sectors. She has advised more than 20 global CEOs and developed communications strategies for leading multinational corporations.Her professional background includes senior roles at Citigroup, American Express Bank, Bata International, and DHL Group, where she led global media relations, regional communications, thought leadership, and strategy.In her new role at Panterhei, Gupta will leverage her global expertise to support the consultancy’s strategic communications initiatives and strengthen connections with India’s growing influence in global trade and investment.

Authored By Kruttik Parekh, Lead PR & Corporate Communications at Rebel FoodsFor many years public relations was mostly understood to mean media relations, whether that be through press releases, interview requests or media email clippings. PR teams were often evaluated based on the number of mentions they achieved. The measure of success was only based on awareness. While media relations are still a valid function of public relations, it has changed significantly and is no longer seen in this way. PR was no longer simply a support function; it became a strategic driver of business impact through driving growth, shaping perceptions, and building trust among different stakeholder groups.Modern PR encompasses more than simply managing how your brand is viewed in the media. It has also quickly become a powerful tool for influencing decisions, creating alignment with business goals and outcomes, etc. Organizations need to be engaged and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, customers, employees, investors, partners, and regulators. That creates a pivotal role for PR in the storytelling process to draw the connection and elicit engagement, trust, and loyalty.Central to this evolution is integrated storytelling. PR that works is deeply integrated with business strategy, so with every campaign, message, or initiative closely aligned to the larger business aims. It does not matter if the company is launching a new product, entering a new market, or celebrating a corporate anniversary; the story must be the same: consistent, compelling, and meaningful. Therefore, PR professionals must develop an understanding of the business landscape and the brand's identity to ensure they translate business strategy into narratives that stakeholders can identify with and believe.One of the changes in the public relations (PR) field is the data-driven PR, which leads to the evolution of the entire PR function. Traditionally, the amount of articles or media exposure was considered the main measure of success. With the introduction of metrics, public relations teams have not only qualitatively but also quantitatively, with business-related data, been able to evaluate their campaigns. Engagement, sentiment analysis, share of voice, and even lead generation are some of the ways to measure PR campaign success. In addition, firms can determine the extent to which PR contributes to employee morale, customer engagement, brand trust, and hence revenue. The change in public relations from being a tactical support function to a strategic business driver was caused by its ability to measure and manage impact.Thought leadership has risen in significance just as the need for it is still very much in place. One of the key elements of contemporary PR is establishing top executives and brand leaders as reliable and credible sources of ideas within their area of expertise. By means of publishing articles, presenting at conferences, conducting interviews and using digital platforms, leaders are able to engage with industry conversations and change how the organization is viewed. Thought leadership reassures brand trust, draws talented people, makes investors see the value, and strengthens stakeholder engagement. The role of PR today is not only about message delivery anymore, but it is also about having insightful and meaningful dialogues.Reputation management and crisis preparedness have become important components of the strategic value of PR as well. In today’s dynamic, interconnected world, reputations can change in real-time. In order to protect brand equity, communication is necessary to build positive reputation management, transparency and communication, and follow up quickly as needed. PR professionals forecast possible issues, prepare key messages and allow for consistent communication at all times, and all of this important work helps organizations manage critical situations with their stakeholders. By managing reputational risk, PR is directly supporting long-term brand equity and organizational resilience.The transformation of public relations traces a major shift in the way companies perceive communication. PR is not considered a separate department but it has some common areas with marketing, corporate strategy, investor relations and customer experience, which means that an overall approach to engagement can be delivered. Such a merger allows public relations to influence various aspects of business, e.g. from market trust to business viability, and furthermore positions it as a source of sustained growth.In conclusion, the shift from traditional media relations to strategic PR not only acknowledges but also highlights a need for the emphasis: Communication is a tool of the business, not a publicity function. Those organizations that can identify this paradigm will be the ones to use PR as a strategy to change the views of their target audience, create a good rapport, and provide results that can be measured. The contemporary PR professional just doesn’t narrate stories; he is also a strategist, an analyst, and a reputation architect who has an impact on market conditions and his organization’s future. The companies that comprehend strategic PR and harness its potency will not only increase their visibility but also deepen their relationships with stakeholders and drive measurable business impact. In the current competitive new economy, modern PR is still a must-have for those organizations that want to grow beyond the norm.DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and theprpost.com does not necessarily subscribe to it.

The New York Mets have appointed Lauren Hurvitz as Senior Vice President, Communications and a member of the senior leadership team. She will join the organization on November 3, 2025.In her role, Hurvitz will oversee all aspects of the Mets’ communications strategy and public affairs, partnering with senior leadership to strengthen the team’s brand and engagement with fans, media, and other stakeholders.Hurvitz brings over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, marketing, and public affairs. Her previous roles include senior positions at Turner, Starcom MediaVest Group, AOL, and MTV Networks. Most recently, she founded Bullet Point Advisory, providing communications strategy, corporate marketing, crisis management, and brand reputation advisory to global corporations, startups, and advocacy groups.She holds a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and an MBA from Columbia Business School. Hurvitz serves on the boards of the Duke Annual Fund and PINK Concussions.

Zeno Group has named Karyn Barr as Head of Technology, Zeno U.S., reinforcing the firm’s unwavering commitment to the sector and advancing opportunities to evolve client work for greater impact. In this role, Barr will collaborate across Zeno’s other sectors and with the firm’s global technology centers of excellence.  Barr brings more than 20 years of experience advising start-ups, high-growth innovators, and Fortune 500 leaders including Adobe, FICO, C3 AI, Teradata, and Autodesk. She most recently held senior leadership roles at Allison Worldwide, where she scaled its Technology practice and co-founded the firm’s global AI task force and product suite. “Karyn brings deep expertise and a sharp perspective on integrated communications for technology companies, as well as the role of technology across financial services, retail, health and other critical industries,” said Grant Deady, Zeno U.S. President. “Technology has always been a cornerstone of Zeno. With Karyn’s leadership, we will continue to innovate and ensure technology remains a powerful driver of growth for our clients and for us.” Based in San Francisco, Barr will start on Oct. 6. She will report to Deady and be part of the Zeno Global Leadership Team.  “I’ve long admired Zeno’s work and unwavering commitment to its people, culture and clients,” said Barr. “As consumer and enterprise technology rapidly transform, the opportunity for comms to lead with speed, strategy and smart creativity has never been more important. I am honored to join this exceptionally talented team and look forward to building and advancing Zeno Tech.”  Beyond her passion for technology, Barr enjoys skiing with her husband, is a recovering long-distance runner, and actively supports the Alzheimer’s Association while serving in leadership roles at her children’s schools. 

APCO has announced the appointment of Valerie Pinto as its Managing Director for India and Executive Director of Corporate Asia. In this role, Pinto will lead APCO’s operations in India and help shape the strategic direction for its corporate business across Asia.Her responsibilities include advisory, consulting, advocacy, and corporate reputation management, as well as expanding APCO’s presence in dynamic markets. She will work closely with regional teams and global corporate leaders to deliver impactful, purpose-driven initiatives and ensure alignment with both community and corporate goals.Before joining APCO, Pinto served as CEO of Weber Shandwick India, where she focused on creative client solutions, campaign planning with a content-first approach, and applying technology to communications and consultancy programs.Earlier in her career, she was CEO of Perfect Relations, building the agency into one of India’s leading PR firms with strengths in strategy, media relations, corporate affairs, crisis management, and public advocacy. During her tenure, the agency managed a wide range of corporate clients across industries including FMCG, technology, aviation, retail, and financial services.Pinto began her career as a Communications Manager at UTV, where she oversaw corporate communications, internal messaging, media engagement, and profile-building initiatives for the organization.With extensive experience in corporate reputation, advocacy, and strategic communications, Pinto brings deep expertise to APCO as she leads its India business and contributes to corporate strategy across Asia.

Meenu Handa, one of India’s most respected corporate communications leaders, has announced her retirement, marking the end of a remarkable 35-year career across some of the world’s most influential companies. Starting her journey on October 1, 1990, at IPAN, Handa went on to hold senior leadership roles at Microsoft, Amazon, and most recently Google, where she served as Vice President of Communications for Asia-Pacific.In a reflective note shared on the anniversary of her first day in the industry, Handa said: “35 years. 4 incredible companies. A million memories. Today, as I change the pace of my life, I look back at these years with deep fulfillment and gratitude… The question I’m often asked is, ‘What’s the plan?’ My answer: there is no plan. A whole new, fresh canvas awaits.”A Storied Career in CommunicationsHanda began her career at IPAN Hill & Knowlton, where she rose to the position of Vice President and built deep expertise in marketing communications, public affairs, and crisis management. She then spent over seven years at Microsoft India, serving as Director of Corporate Communications and as part of the India Leadership Team, where she was recognized as “Corporate Communication Professional of the Year” in 2012 by exchange4media.In 2013, she joined Amazon, setting up the corporate communications function for the company in India and building its CSR charter under “Amazon Cares,” which went on to win the Golden Peacock CSR Award.Her longest stint was at Google, where she spent nearly a decade in multiple leadership roles across India and Asia-Pacific, ultimately becoming Vice President of Communications for the region. At Google, she led critical mandates in corporate communications, storytelling, and reputation management, while mentoring and building high-performing communications teams.Beyond her corporate roles, Handa also served as Independent Director on the board of SRL Diagnostics (2016–2018) and as an advisory board member for KickOff Solutions.A Legacy of Leadership and MentorshipThroughout her career, Handa was known not just for her communication acumen but also for mentoring teams and empowering young professionals. In her farewell note, she expressed deep gratitude to her mentors, peers, and teams across IPAN, Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, calling the relationships she built her “real return on investment.”Handa’s retirement marks the close of a landmark career that shaped the communication strategies of global tech and retail leaders in India and beyond. Looking ahead, she says she is embracing the same “nervous excitement” she felt on her first day in the industry—ready to paint a new canvas in life’s next chapter.

In this role, she managed communications for brands like Ampere and Greaves 3W, and led strategic messaging and IPO communication efforts for the company's upcoming listing.Prior to this, she served as Deputy General Manager at Greaves Cotton Ltd., overseeing internal and external communications, social media, website, intranet, and investor relations.Before joining Greaves, Trupti spent over a decade at MSL India and Six Degrees BCW, where she led communications for clients across sectors like automotive, technology, and startups. Her recent posts on LinkedIn reflect a sense of pride and gratitude for her journey, including a post titled "Legacy Matters" acknowledging her time at Greaves Cotton. 

Thrillophilia, India’s leading AI-powered travel platform for personalised multi-day tours and curated experiences, has appointed The Media Manifest as its official Public Relations partner. The association will focus on strengthening Thrillophilia’s brand presence and shaping conversations around how Indians discover and experience travel.Founded in 2011 by Chitra Gurnani Daga and Abhishek Daga, Thrillophilia has been at the forefront of transforming personalized multi-day tour and trip planning in India. With its AI-led approach, the platform helps travellers design complete itineraries from stays and transfers to unique local experiences. Today, Thrillophilia serves 100M+ users annually, offering 25,000+ experiences across 55+ countries, and enabling 300,000 bookings every year.Speaking about the partnership, Kinjal Shah, Co-founder of The Media Manifest, said: “We are excited to partner with Thrillophilia, a brand that is redefining travel for the new-age Indian consumer. At The Media Manifest, we believe in crafting narratives that go beyond traditional communication, connecting brands to audiences through authenticity and relevance. With Thrillophilia’s scale and vision, we see a tremendous opportunity to shape conversations around how India travels and to showcase the brand’s role in driving the future of experiential tourism.”Abhishek Daga, Co-founder of Thrillophilia, added: “At Thrillophilia, we’ve always believed travel is more than moving from one place to another; it’s about creating stories that stay with you. With The Media Manifest on board, we aim to share not just what we do, but why we do it, making travel more intelligent and personalised for every traveller. By combining our AI-driven insights with The Media Manifest’s storytelling expertise, we aim to not just amplify our presence but to spark conversations that influence how millions of Indians discover, plan, and experience travel in the years ahead.”Together with The Media Manifest, Thrillophilia aims to strengthen its brand presence, share consumer insights, and set a new benchmark for how Indian travel connects with audiences, moving beyond transactions to meaningful stories that shape the future of travel. The association also underscores Thrillophilia’s commitment to amplifying its voice within the industry and engaging deeply with stakeholders, travellers, and the larger community.As India embraces a new wave of travel defined by personalization, digital adoption, and a growing appetite for unique experiences, this partnership is set to amplify Thrillophilia’s presence and highlight its role in shaping the future of experiential tourism.

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, Vaibhavi Sanghvi, Founder and Partner, Relacion Global, shares her journey of building a purpose-driven PR agency for India’s MSMEs and SMEs. With over 15 years of experience in strategic communications, she talks about the inspiration behind starting her own firm, the evolution of the PR industry, and how her agency blends global perspectives with local insights to deliver authentic, impactful storytelling. What inspired you to start your own PR agency, and what was the vision behind it? In the last couple of years, India has witnessed an unprecedented wave of entrepreneurship, with MSMEs and SMEs emerging as the backbone of this growth story. Their ideas and impact are powerful, yet many of their stories remain untold. Often, these businesses hesitate to explore PR, believing that meaningful storytelling is reserved for global giants with deep pockets. That’s precisely where we saw an opportunity. With over 15 years of experience each, working with some of the world’s leading brands, we’ve seen firsthand how strategic PR can solve business challenges, shape perceptions, and build long-term trust. We realized that the same principles could be tailored for India’s MSMEs and SMEs, delivering measurable impact while staying grounded in their realities. As we examined the landscape, the gap became clear: most PR solutions for smaller businesses were either cookie-cutter or focused solely on short-term visibility, rather than building sustainable reputations. We knew there was a chance to do something different—an agency that blends global perspective with local understanding, treats every client as a partner, and crafts narratives rooted in authenticity, culture, and business outcomes. Our vision has always been to help these businesses tell their stories with purpose, making PR both accessible and meaningful. For us, PR isn’t just about placements or coverage, it’s about creating lasting value, building credibility, and ensuring that brands are seen, heard, and remembered in a crowded marketplace. How has the PR industry evolved since you began your journey, and how has your agency adapted? When we started, PR was largely measured by the size of a media article or the estimated PR value. Today, it’s measured in trust, influence, and the quality of conversations a brand generates. That shift has been both exciting and challenging. We’ve adapted by blending the old with the new. Beyond traditional media, we now help brands manage their presence on platforms like LinkedIn, where thought leadership and professional reputation play a crucial role. Our approach also includes holistic reputation management, ensuring that every public interaction, from media coverage to social media content, works cohesively. We’ve found that offering a bouquet of these services together creates exponentially better outcomes. Visibility alone is fleeting; reputation management builds credibility, and LinkedIn amplifies professional trust and influence. When these elements are orchestrated together, the result is a brand that’s not just seen, but respected, remembered, and trusted in a fast-moving, attention-driven world. What differentiates your agency’s approach to PR from others in the market? Our approach starts from a problem-solving point of view. We begin by asking: What will actually help this brand, business or founder? Sometimes the answer is traditional PR, sometimes it’s thought leadership, reputation management, or even a digital-first solution. Our focus is always on relevance and impact, not activity for the sake of activity. This mindset allows us to act as genuine partners to our clients. We collaborate closely, identifying what will move the needle for their business and shape perceptions in meaningful ways. Even when traditional PR isn’t the right solution, we provide strategies that address the core challenge, ensuring every effort contributes to long-term growth and credibility. By prioritizing purpose over process, we create campaigns that are strategic, targeted, and measurable; delivering results that go beyond visibility to actually strengthen the brand’s presence, trust, and influence. How do you balance traditional PR practices with the demands of digital and social media-driven communication? For us, it’s not about balancing the old and new. It’s about integration. The industry itself has evolved. Traditional PR was once dominated by print. Today, online platforms are central to how audiences discover and engage with brands, and this shift brings tangible benefits; coverage online not only builds visibility but also contributes to SEO, which can directly support lead generation and business growth.There was a time when PR lived in silos, media relations here, social media there, brand marketing elsewhere. That model doesn’t work anymore. A brand’s reputation exists in an interconnected ecosystem, and agencies can’t treat each channel separately. Consumers don’t experience brands in silos, so why should strategy be fragmented? Our role is to stitch everything together, ensuring consistency without losing nuance. That integration turns isolated efforts into momentum-building campaigns that influence perception, strengthen credibility, and create measurable business impact across platforms and communities. What role do storytelling and creativity play in shaping impactful PR campaigns today? Storytelling and creativity aren’t just important, they’re the heart of modern PR. In a world overloaded with information, people don’t remember statistics or press releases; they remember narratives that resonate. Creativity is what transforms a story from being heard to being remembered and shared. Take Boat for example, the brand has used playful, relatable content and influencer-driven campaigns to position itself as the voice of India’s youth, turning a commodity product into a cultural phenomenon. Similarly, skincare brands like Minimalist and Sheth’s. showcase narratives that go beyond product features, they tell stories about self-care, science-backed solutions, and personal transformation. By blending authenticity, education, and aspirational messaging, these brands make skincare relatable and inspire trust among consumers. When PR leverages storytelling and creativity this way, campaigns go beyond visibility to build culture, spark conversations, and strengthen trust. In today’s world, a story that isn’t meaningful or creative risks being invisible, no matter how strong the product. What are some of the biggest challenges brands face in managing their reputation, and how does your agency help them overcome these? Reputation today moves at the speed of a tweet. A single post can amplify goodwill or trigger a crisis overnight. This makes managing reputation more complex and critical than ever. What sets our approach apart is how we start with listening. We dig deep to understand the brand, ask the tough questions, and uncover vulnerabilities. Our focus is proactive, not reactive. We don’t wait for crises to hit; we build reputational resilience long before it’s tested. By combining insight with storytelling, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management, we help brands rise above the noise with credibility, consistency, and lasting trust. This means crafting narratives strong enough to withstand scrutiny, equipping brands with a clear playbook for challenges, and continuously nurturing trust among all stakeholders; customers, employees, investors, and partners alike. Could you share a campaign or project that you’re especially proud of and why it stands out for you? Something that we are absolutely proud of was the IPO mandate of a specialty chemicals company, which came to us just two months into starting our agency. At the time, neither of us had prior experience with IPO communication. But what we did have was the determination to prove ourselves, the curiosity to learn and unlearn quickly, and the experience and discipline to deliver with precision. We knew that credibility and precision would be paramount in a mandate as regulated and high-stakes as this. Our first step was immersing ourselves in the IPO landscape; studying the industry, examining successful past listings, and deeply understanding the regulatory and compliance directives that govern capital markets communication. This was not just about creating visibility; it was about ensuring that every message was sharp, consistent, and aligned with SEBI’s stringent guidelines, while also strong enough to resonate with both institutional and retail investors. Working hand-in-hand with the company’s leadership team, we developed forward-looking, growth-oriented messaging that captured the business fundamentals and its future potential. From there, we built a comprehensive communications program that spanned media engagement, investor trust-building, and reputation management. The campaign achieved extensive visibility across all leading business dailies and financial platforms, ensuring that the company’s story was told with clarity and credibility. We also positioned senior leadership through interviews and thought-leadership opportunities that reinforced expertise and confidence in the company. The outcome was extraordinary. The IPO received an overwhelming 99x oversubscription, reflecting not just the company’s fundamentals but also the confidence that the communication strategy helped instil in the market. For us, the true reward lay in the journey; the ability to navigate an entirely new domain, master its complexities, and deliver results that were both measurable and meaningful. What advice would you give to young professionals who want to build a career in PR or start their own agency? Start with the basics—read the news every day, understand how stories are shaped, and learn to write with clarity and purpose. These may sound simple, but they are the foundation of strategic PR. Invest in relationships, not just contacts. Build genuine trust with journalists and clients. PR is built on credibility, and credibility takes patience, consistency, and authenticity to earn. Take ownership of your work. Don’t just complete tasks; understand the “why” behind every activity and think like a partner to the business. If you want to start your own agency, be prepared to wear multiple hats. You’ll wear multiple hats—strategist, writer, client servicing manager, sometimes even accountant, but the ownership you take in each role will define the agency’s impact. Finally, stay curious, stay disciplined, and view every campaign, client, and challenge as an opportunity to learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference. The best PR professionals aren’t just executors, they’re problem-solvers, storytellers, and strategic partners. 

Weber Shandwick, the earned-first global communications agency, today announced the promotion of Shashikanth Someshwar to Chief Executive Officer of Weber Shandwick India, effective October 1.With a team of more than 150 people across Mumbai, Gurgaon, and Bengaluru, India has become one of Weber Shandwick’s fastest-growing markets in Asia Pacific, fueled by demand from clients in technology, healthcare, consumer, and public affairs. Someshwar’s promotion reinforces the firm’s commitment to building on this momentum and expanding its leadership presence in the region. “India is not only one of the fastest-growing markets in Asia Pacific, but it is also one of the most influential. Shashi’s leadership will ensure that Weber Shandwick continues to be at the forefront of this growth, helping clients navigate change with creativity, innovation, and meaningful impact. His promotion is a critical step in strengthening our leadership bench as we accelerate our regional ambitions,” said Tyler Kim, CEO, APAC, Weber Shandwick. “The promotion is both a personal milestone and a reflection of the incredible journey we have taken as a team. India’s communications landscape is evolving rapidly, and Weber Shandwick is uniquely positioned to help clients seize the opportunities ahead. My focus will be on building the next chapter of growth by strengthening partnerships, embracing innovation, and empowering our team to deliver impact,” said Someshwar.Someshwar has held leadership roles across corporate and consumer practices before stepping in as interim Managing Director of India earlier this year. Working closely with the senior leadership team, he has been instrumental in driving growth, providing strategic counsel to clients, and building teams aligned with the evolving needs of the market.

Authored By Smita Joshi, VP – Corporate Communications, Shriram Wealth Ltd & Shriram AMC“The shortest distance between two people is a story,” wrote American author and journalist Patti Digh — a thought I deeply resonate with. Stories stay with us longer than facts, and conversations often build more trust than statements. That’s exactly where podcasts today are changing the game for corporate communications. They’re not just another channel; they’re a space where brands can sound real, leaders can share unfiltered perspectives, and stakeholders can connect on a deeper level. On International Podcast Day today, it’s time to see podcasts as more than content as they are today’s most authentic storytelling tool for businesses. International Podcast Day is an annual celebration recognized on September 30th each year. It is a day dedicated to appreciating the art, technology, and community behind podcasting.Although podcasts have existed since 2004, their explosion in India is recent. With 105 million listeners in 2024 and an estimated 200 million in 2025, India is now the third-largest podcast market globally, behind only China and the USA, according to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF). With over 100 million people tuning in every month, digital audio has become a new way to access information, offering everything from fiction and news to interviews and narrative stories. This rise of audio consumption aligns with a broader shift in digital behaviour—video and voice are taking over social media as they grab attention, build stronger connections, and simplify communication. With shrinking attention spans and platforms prioritizing them, videos drive far higher engagement—Facebook videos alone get 10x more shares than other posts. Modern storytelling is evolving rapidly, and podcasts are definitely taking the center stage.The Power of Voice in StorytellingAt their core, podcasts are about building trust and loyalty. Numbers and data inform, but stories inspire and connect. When leaders narrate experiences in their own voice, viewers watch and listen everything – their tone, pauses, and emotions, creating an intimacy that written communication cannot replicate. A leader describing how a product was built or what values drive a company – their challenges, achievements, vision sounds far more relatable when heard directly, rather than read on a website, blog or news article.Meeting the Demand for AuthenticityThe growing popularity of podcasts also mirrors a broader shift in audience behaviour. Consumers, investors, and employees no longer want polished corporate speak, they crave authenticity. Unlike social media posts or press releases, a 20 to 30 minutes podcast offers depth and genuine connection. It creates space for deeper conversations, candid reflections, and real stories that resonate far beyond headlines.A Platform for Diverse VoicesPodcasts give organizations the flexibility to share stories from all corners of the business, revealing insights that are often hidden behind the headlines. Instead of repeating polished corporate messages, the episodes highlight real experiences, how teams collaborate to solve complex problems, how innovations are brought to life, or how customers interact with products in meaningful ways. By presenting these perspectives, podcasts offer a richer, more nuanced understanding of a company, making the brand feel authentic, approachable, and human.Building Trust Through ConversationsTrust is one of the most valuable corporate assets, and podcasts are uniquely equipped to build it. Audiences switch off when they hear jargon or scripted messages, but when leaders admit challenges, discuss failures, or reflect openly on industry shifts, they appear more relatable and trustworthy. These unscripted moments humanize corporations, positioning them as communities with voices, not just businesses with balance sheets.External and Internal ImpactThe adaptability of podcasts makes them powerful across audiences. For external stakeholders, they reinforce thought leadership, offering insights on regulatory changes, industry trends, or customer needs. For employees, especially in hybrid work environments, internal podcast series can foster connection, engagement, and shared culture across geographies. Whether inward- or outward-facing, podcasts offer flexibility and impact that traditional formats often lack.The Voice of the FutureOn International Podcast Day, it’s worth recognizing that podcasts are not a passing trend. They are a bridge between formal communication and genuine conversation. They give businesses the chance to step down from the pedestal and speak as people first. In a world where attention spans are short, but trust is scarce, podcasts are powerful advantage.At Shriram Group, our leaders have always believed that trust is built through conversations, not just statements. Whether it’s sharing the vision behind new businesses, reflecting on challenges, or speaking openly about opportunities, our leadership embodies the same authenticity that makes podcasts such a compelling medium.Podcasts carrying stories are here to stay, reshaping how businesses communicate, connect, and build trust. For leaders and communicators ready to embrace authenticity, podcasts are not just the tool of today, they are the voice of tomorrowDISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and THEPRPOST.COM does not necessarily subscribe to it.

Once considered a side-channel for hobbyists and storytellers, podcasts have now entered the mainstream of corporate strategy. With India’s young, mobile-first population driving a surge in audio consumption, organizations are recognizing the format’s ability to blend accessibility with authenticity.On International Podcast Day today, industry leaders are highlighting how podcasts have evolved from niche passion projects into powerful corporate communication tools. For businesses navigating increasingly complex audiences and communication channels, podcasts are fast becoming an essential medium for leadership branding, internal alignment, and client engagement.In an era where traditional mass media struggles to match the pace of personalized digital content, podcasts offer leaders a unique platform to speak directly and meaningfully to stakeholders.Dr. Sandeep Dadia, CEO and Country Head at Lockton India, notes that the medium’s rise has been driven by convenience and authenticity. “This shift is due to the growing demand for on-the-go content. People are busy, and any form of content that is easy to consume from the audience’s point of view is bound to be in demand.” he says.For Rathin Lahiri, Head – Marketing & CSR at SBI General Insurance, India’s young demographic and tech adoption have fueled this shift. “The mobile phone is almost an extension of our body. In this landscape, podcasts strike the perfect balance of being formal yet candid, making them impactful for leaders and audiences alike”.Beyond ease of consumption, the format offers leaders a rare opportunity to go beyond polished messaging. With authenticity, depth, and flexibility at their core, podcasts are emerging as a vital channel for corporate leaders to humanize communication, strengthen personal brands, and build stronger connections with stakeholders. “Unlike short-form content, podcasts allow for authentic storytelling and candid conversations. Leaders can showcase not just expertise, but also personality, values, and vision” adds Dadia.Podcasts are also proving particularly effective in simplifying complex industries. “In insurance, where complexity often hinders engagement, podcasts can unpack jargon, showcase innovation, and spotlight real customer stories,” says Neha Plasterwala, Head of Marketing and Communications, Lockton India. “They’re not just a tool for reach, but a platform for relevance, reputation, and relationship-building”Looking ahead, experts believe the next wave of corporate podcasting will be defined by interactivity and personalization. Dadia points out that the future lies in building tighter communities through formats that encourage dialogue and participation, moving beyond one-way conversations. Lahiri adds that with AI and analytics becoming more advanced, podcasts will evolve into shorter, sharper formats tailored to specific audience segments and listening patterns. Together, these shifts signal a future where podcasts serve not only as channels of thought leadership but also as dynamic platforms for engagement, trust-building, and long-term relationship manage

Verizon Communications Inc., a major U.S. telecommunications provider, reported strong second-quarter 2025 results, leading to upward revisions in adjusted EBITDA, EPS, and free cash flow guidance.The company announced a 1.8% dividend increase to $0.69 per share, marking 19 consecutive years of dividend growth, with a yield of 6.3% and a payout ratio of approximately 63%.Verizon is advancing wireless technology through the Industry 6G Alliance with partners including Ericsson, Samsung, Nokia, Meta, and Qualcomm, while its 5G Ultra Wideband network continues to expand. The network has been deployed in mission-critical applications, including emergency communications for the Tampa Police Department.In September 2025, Verizon became the first carrier to offer AI-powered Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, integrating wearable technology with its network ecosystem.The company is relocating its headquarters to PENN 2 in Midtown Manhattan, with completion expected by 2026.Verizon combines financial stability, dividend growth, and technology-led initiatives, maintaining its position as a leading U.S. telecom provider.

Snowflake, the AI Data Cloud company, has announced the appointment of Stella Low as Chief Communications Officer, effective October 6, 2025. In this role, Low will lead Snowflake’s communications strategy and support the company’s leadership as it continues to expand its presence in the technology and AI sectors.Low brings extensive experience from senior communications roles at major technology companies, including HP, Apple, Cisco, Dell Technologies, and EMC. She will oversee Snowflake’s corporate, product, and employee communications, focusing on enhancing brand visibility, thought leadership, and engagement across markets.

Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, and TKO Group Holdings have finalized a long-term media rights agreement making Paramount+ the exclusive streaming platform for Zuffa Boxing across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America.Zuffa Boxing, a professional boxing promotion established by TKO and entertainment company Sela, will feature a full slate of events starting in January 2026 with 12 boxing cards. The number of events is expected to expand in subsequent years. These matches will be available via Paramount+, with select events potentially simulcast on CBS and other Paramount platforms.The agreement positions Paramount+ as the central hub for live boxing content in the region, combining direct-to-consumer streaming with potential broadcast opportunities. Further details, including fight schedules and the first event to be streamed, will be shared in the coming months.

Tata Communications has secured a multi-crore project from the Ministry of Finance to modernize the digital infrastructure of the Goods and Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) benches across India.The project includes a comprehensive suite of solutions spanning network fabric, IoT, cloud services, SD-WAN, video conferencing, and advanced security, with unified management across all domains. The upgraded infrastructure aims to create a secure, scalable, and intelligent digital ecosystem to support the tribunal’s operations.The modernization will enable seamless access for all GSTAT benches, streamline end-to-end operations, and strengthen data security. Advanced technologies such as predictive analytics and automation tools will enhance operational efficiency and provide a simplified, user-friendly experience for stakeholders.This initiative positions Tata Communications as a key technology partner for mission-critical national projects, supporting India’s ongoing efforts to digitize and optimize its taxation infrastructure.

FINN Partners has introduced AIristotle™, a proprietary AI platform designed to help communications teams align strategies with the algorithms that determine content visibility. The platform provides data-driven insights into narratives and language that are most effective in the digital ecosystem.AIristotle integrates proprietary algorithms with LLM analysis and multiple audience data sources, creating an additional intelligence layer for storytelling. By analyzing online conversations, media coverage, and narrative drivers, it identifies the messaging most likely to gain traction or mitigate the spread of harmful narratives.The platform is being integrated into FINN Partners’ communications and marketing services, supporting proactive campaigns, crisis management, and reputation protection. It builds on the agency’s broader suite of innovations, including Canary for Crisis, an AI-powered training platform, and C3, a crisis communications app.Developed in-house within the Media Forensics service, AIristotle has already been applied in client projects and is now available for global use, with a full rollout and training scheduled for October.

The global Public Network Communication Equipment market within the Information Technology and Telecom sector is expected to reach USD 68.3 billion by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 6.2% during 2025–2031. The market is estimated to be valued at USD 42.5 billion in 2024, supported by growing demand for advanced communication infrastructure and continuous innovation in IT and telecom applications.Market Growth OverviewThe Public Network Communication Equipment market is expanding rapidly due to the rising need for reliable communication networks across industries such as telecommunications, government, transportation, and emergency services. Adoption of 5G, IoT, and cloud-based technologies is improving performance, efficiency, and coverage. Urbanization and smart city initiatives are also increasing the requirement for high-speed connectivity and real-time data exchange, driving the demand for scalable and secure network solutions.Regional InsightsAsia-Pacific: Positioned as the fastest-growing region, supported by rapid digital transformation, expanding telecom infrastructure, and government-led investments.North America: Maintains a leading share with advanced technological adoption and robust communication system deployment.Europe: Shows steady growth, driven by network modernization efforts and regulatory compliance requirements.Rest of the World (Latin America, Middle East & Africa): Exhibits moderate growth fueled by infrastructure expansion, industrial development, and rising consumer demand.Key Growth DriversTechnological Advancements: Continuous innovation in AI, IoT, analytics, and automation is enhancing product efficiency and enabling new applications.Cross-Industry Adoption: Increasing usage across automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, telecom, and manufacturing sectors ensures broad market relevance.Government Support: Policies promoting digital infrastructure, smart cities, and Industry 4.0 are accelerating adoption.R&D and Investments: Growing private and public investments in research, along with mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations, are strengthening innovation and market competitiveness.Market SegmentationBy Network Infrastructure EquipmentRoutersSwitchesGatewaysAccess PointsRepeatersBy Communication Transmission EquipmentOptical Fiber EquipmentMicrowave EquipmentSatellite Communication EquipmentRadio Communication EquipmentNetwork Interface CardsBy Network Security EquipmentFirewallsIntrusion Detection SystemsVPN DevicesSecure RoutersEndpoint Security DevicesLeading CompaniesCisco SystemsJuniper NetworksHuawei TechnologiesNokia CorporationArista NetworksZTE CorporationExtreme NetworksPalo Alto NetworksMikrotikTP-Link TechnologiesDell TechnologiesFuture OutlookThe market is set for consistent expansion as industries worldwide continue to modernize communication infrastructure and adopt advanced technologies. Rising data traffic, broadband connectivity needs, and smart infrastructure projects will remain core growth factors through 2031.

Inka, the new-age insurance platform committed to simplifying and humanizing insurance, has once again disrupted industry norms with the launch of its latest campaign. What began as a routine internal email has been transformed into a witty, attention-grabbing front-page print ad that is already sparking conversations across the country. With a Clever, screenshot-style ad and clear, relatable language, the campaign turns the seriousness of insurance into simplicity and fun, offering customers a free breakdown of their insurance needs.This New initiative reflects Inka’s larger journey of reimagining insurance for a new generation. From the beginning, Inka has focused on making insurance accessible, approachable, and trustworthy. The company partnered with popular comedian Kumar Varun as its brand ambassador to connect with young audiences, using humor and relatability to change perceptions. It also pioneered Vaani, India’s first voice AI in insurance, giving customers a simple, conversational way to understand policies and resolve queries. Taking transparency to a new level, Inka even shared its CEO’s personal number for customer inquiries, reinforcing its philosophy of accessibility and openness.Inka’s campaigns have also gone beyond advertising into grassroots engagement. In Bangalore, the company hosted “Tea with the CEO,” where every day, customers could sit down with the founder to openly discuss insurance, breaking barriers between leadership and the public. Each initiative underscores Inka’s mission to make insurance not just about products, but about building genuine trust and awareness.“At Inka, we believe insurance should empower people, not overwhelm them,” said Vaibhav Kathju, Founder of Inka Insurance. “From voice AI to grassroots campaigns, our goal is to prove that insurance can be both human and approachable while always staying focused on the customer.”By blending creativity, technology, and authenticity, Inka is positioning itself as a challenger brand that is reshaping how Indians perceive insurance, making it more transparent, engaging, and relevant for everyone.

Patrick Scallon has joined French fashion house Lemaire as its global communications director. He began his role this week at the brand, led by Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, known for its understated clothing and croissant-shaped bags.Scallon’s initial projects include organizing an exhibition at Lemaire’s boutique in Tokyo’s Ebisu neighborhood and preparing for the brand’s next runway show during men’s fashion week in Paris in January.Scallon has extensive experience in fashion communications, having spent 14 years as communications director at Dries Van Noten and 15 years at Maison Margiela, where he also served as head of communications and art director for communications.Following his tenure at Dries Van Noten, Scallon worked as an independent consultant and mentor in fashion communications strategy, occasionally lecturing and sharing insights on creative content.A native of Ireland, Scallon holds an arts degree from University College Dublin. He began his career as a communications trainee at the European Commission in Brussels, where he spent nearly a decade in communications, speechwriting, lobbying, and consulting for public and private sector organizations.In recognition of his contributions to the fashion industry, Scallon was awarded the Chevaliers des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture in 2019.

Dipti Das has announced her new role as Vice President and Senior Communications Specialist, India at Northern Trust, She will be working on-site in this capacity.Das brings with her over two decades of experience in communications, content strategy, employee engagement, and leadership messaging across global organizations. Alongside her new role at Northern Trust, she continues her work as an Author and Independent Content & Marketing Strategist, a position she has held since January 2025.Prior to Northern Trust, Das served as Associate Director, Global Marketing Team at Cognizant. In this role, she developed internal communications strategies aligned with business priorities, led editorial content efforts, and collaborated with senior leadership to craft CXO-level communications.She also worked with Wipro as Strategic Communications Lead for the CIO and COO offices, where she handled executive communications, organizational change management, and stakeholder engagement for global programs.Before Wipro, Das spent nearly five years with Larsen & Toubro Infotech (LTI) in multiple roles, including Manager Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist. Earlier experiences include roles at HCL Technologies as Senior Content/Technical Writer, 7 Dimensions Media as Editor, and consulting assignments with Unilever.Her career began in journalism as Reporter and Sub-Editor with Vijay Times, before moving into content and communications roles across industries.Das also has significant freelance experience as a writer, editor, and content consultant, having worked independently at different points in her career.