Shashikanth Someshwar to Lead Weber Shandwick India as CEO
Effective October 1, 2025, Weber Shandwick has elevated Shashikanth Someshwar to the position of Chief Executive Officer of Weber Shandwick India.
Driven by clients in the technology, healthcare, consumer, and public affairs sectors, India has emerged as one of the firm's fastest-growing markets in Asia Pacific, employing over 150 individuals in Mumbai, Gurgaon, and Bengaluru. His promotion coincides with the agency's efforts to expand on this success and fortify regional leadership.
“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.
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“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.
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Before assuming the role of temporary Managing Director of India earlier this year, Someshwar oversaw corporate and consumer practices. In order to spur growth, offer strategic advice, and match teams with evolving customer demands, he has collaborated extensively with senior management.
Previously, Valerie Pinto resigned from her position as CEO of Weber Shandwick India after ten years. According to reports, Karan Bhandari and Shashikant Someshwar will remain managing directors for the foreseeable future and will answer to Tyler Kim, the CEO of APAC.
To guarantee a smooth transition for clients and teams alike, Valerie will collaborate closely with the team. Our commitment to delivering strategic advice and collaboration to our clients remains unchanged.
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Someshwar is the MD of Current Global India, and Bhandari is the MD of Integrated Media Strategy. Pinto is anticipated to remain for a further six months during the transition, according to reports. In the first week of January 2015, Pinto became the CEO of Weber Shandwick's India operations. Along with Atul Ahluwalia, who was vice chairman at the time, she was also a member of the India Leadership Council and on the Asia Pacific board of Weber Shandwick.