Bhavna Jagtiani has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Edelman India. Previously serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO), Bhavna will now helm the firm’s India operations, steering business strategy, strengthening client relationships, and enhancing Edelman’s capabilities to deliver innovative and impactful communication solutions.
With an illustrious career spanning over 22 years—including more than a decade at Edelman—Bhavna has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth. She has led integrated teams across India and Hong Kong, managing an impressive portfolio of global brands such as Starbucks, LinkedIn, Tencent (WeChat), Sunkist, IKEA, Colgate-Palmolive, Heinz, Wrigley, BlackBerry, Kraft, and Groupon. Her strategic leadership has driven some of Edelman’s most celebrated campaigns, including the award-winning IKEA Sleeptober Campaign, which secured three Marketing awards at the 2014 MARKIES in Hong Kong.
During her tenure as COO, Bhavna championed operational excellence, expanded client mandates, and fostered a thriving organisational culture. She previously led Edelman India’s Western operations, overseeing key offices in Mumbai, Pune, and Ahmedabad. Her international experience includes a two-year stint in Hong Kong as Co-Lead of the Consumer Practice, where she was instrumental in driving significant business growth. Her expertise spans corporate and brand communications, market entries, media strategy, crisis management, and integrated marketing.
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Commenting on her appointment, Rakesh Thukral, CEO of Edelman APAC, stated: “Bhavna Jagtiani is an undisputed culture champion, having fostered a workplace rooted in collaboration and empowerment. Her leadership has been pivotal in Edelman India’s sustained growth, and her ability to drive business transformation and build strong client relationships makes her the ideal choice to lead our India operations. I look forward to the milestones we will achieve under her leadership.”
Beyond her role at Edelman, Bhavna is a founding board member of GWPR India, further showcasing her commitment to advancing the communications industry. Her elevation to CEO marks a significant milestone for Edelman India, reinforcing its vision for continued growth, excellence, and industry leadership.
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