The US Chamber of Commerce has announced the appointment of Rahul Sharma as the new India-based Managing Director of the US-India Business Council (USIBC), effective August 20, 2024. He will lead a strong team of policy experts dedicated to the over 200 member companies of the Council, and to fostering the partnership and prosperity of both the U.S. and India. Alexander Slater, USIBC?ÇÖs current Managing Director, is returning to Washington, D.C., following USIBC?ÇÖs India Ideas Summit scheduled for September 12th in New Delhi. He will assume a new role as Senior Advisor to USIBC President and Ambassador (Ret.) Atul Keshap.?Ç£We are thrilled to welcome Rahul Sharma to the USIBC family,?Ç¥ said Ambassador Atul Keshap, USIBC President. ?Ç£Rahul?ÇÖs vast experience and proven track record in media, policy, and corporate advisory and communications will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the U.S.-India partnership and achieve our shared goal of $500 billion in trade. Rahul?ÇÖs globally recognized leadership and hands-on experience managing regulatory and policy developments will further enhance our ability to advocate for our members and build U.S.-India business and investment ties.?Ç¥With nearly four decades of experience, Sharma, a former journalist and newspaper editor, brings extensive knowledge of India?ÇÖs business landscape to USIBC. He joins USIBC after six years leading APCO India, where he guided corporate clients, managed business and policy advocacy goals, and advised state governments on investment communications. Sharma?ÇÖs appointment comes as USIBC prepares to celebrate its Golden Jubilee in 2025, marking 50 years of its role as the top business voice in the U.S.-India corridor. ?Ç£I look forward to my new role at USIBC and working with a unique team committed to enhancing and deepening business and strategic ties between the world?ÇÖs two greatest democracies,?Ç¥ said Sharma.Sharma, long recognized as a leading voice in India?ÇÖs public affairs landscape, previously served as Deputy Secretary General for the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), where he was instrumental in driving the organization?ÇÖs membership growth. His journalism background includes roles with organizations such as Reuters, Hindustan Times, Khaleej Times, and The Economic Times. He is a founding member and past president of the Public Affairs Forum of India (PAFI).Sharma holds a master?ÇÖs degree in international affairs from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, a master?ÇÖs degree in international trade and economy from Flinders University, and a post-graduate diploma in journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication.During nearly five years at USIBC in New Delhi, Alexander Slater has led USIBC?ÇÖs India team through a period of transformational growth.