MAM
Robert Gilby steps down as CEO of Dentsu APAC
Mumbai: Rob Gilby has stepped down from his role as CEO of Dentsu APAC after two years to pursue new ventures. He took on the position in September 2022, following Ashish Bhasin, and was instrumental in driving growth and regional integration efforts within the company, aligning its operations under the “One Dentsu” strategy.
With nearly three decades of experience in media and entertainment and over 25 years of expertise in the Asia Pacific region, Gilby made a significant impact at Dentsu. During his tenure, he focused on strengthening leadership, enhancing the company’s core competencies, and aligning Dentsu’s practices with client-driven growth objectives.
Before joining Dentsu, Gilby served as president of Asia Pacific at Nielsen, where he worked closely with brands, agencies, and media owners to deliver audience insights. He also founded and led Blue Hat Ventures, a firm specializing in helping digital media companies grow in the Asia Pacific market. His experience spans key markets like China, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia, having held leadership roles at major companies such as The Walt Disney Company, WarnerMedia, and PwC.
Beyond his corporate work, Gilby has been involved in advisory roles with Singapore’s Ministry of Communications and Information and the InfoComm Media Development Authority, and he chaired the Singapore Media Festival.
MAM
PwC India announces leadership change in Deals practice
Shashank Jain steps down as co-leader after nearly three decades with the firm.
MUMBAI: When one dealmaker steps off the pitch, another is ready to take the baton because in the fast-moving world of transactions, the game never really stops. PwC India has announced a leadership transition in its Deals practice, with Shashank Jain stepping down from his role as co-leader to pursue an opportunity in the industry. The practice will continue to be led by Mohit Chopra, ensuring continuity and sustained growth momentum.
PwC India partner and leader for advisory dinesh Arora paid tribute to Jain’s contributions. “We deeply appreciate the significant contributions made by Shashank over close to three decades he has spent with PwC, particularly his defining role in shaping and strengthening our Transaction Services practice in India,” he said. Arora highlighted Jain’s support for clients through some of the most complex and significant transactions in the Indian market, noting his deep technical expertise, sound judgment and nuanced understanding of the evolving M&A landscape.
The Deals practice remains a key growth driver for PwC India, and the firm expects continued expansion under Mohit Chopra’s leadership. He will continue to guide clients through complex transactions and transformational business moments, building on the strong foundation established over the years.
Reflecting on his journey, Shashank Jain said, “I have had an exceptional journey at PwC. I owe my growth and learning to the nurturing environment and leadership development that PwC provided.” He added that he had been working closely with Mohit and the larger team to ensure a smooth transition and expressed confidence that Chopra would take the Deals practice to newer heights.
From intern to respected deals leader, Shashank Jain has clearly closed many successful transactions and now, it seems, he’s ready to strike a new deal of his own.
