Contract Advertising ropes in Rana Barua as COO

JWT South Asia has announced the appointment of Rana Barua as the chief operating officer of Contract Advertising, India. Rana’s entry follows the exit of Contract CEO Umesh Shrikhande.
Barua moves from Law & Kenneth, where he joined in August 2012 as COO - West and South.
“Rana has diverse management experience with a proven track record that makes him an ideal choice for Contract, one of India’s leading independent integrated advertising agencies. I am confident that Rana with his experience across advertising and integrated brand solutions will ensure that Contract continues to be a very successful agency,” said Colvyn Harris, chief executive officer, JWT South Asia.

“I am excited with the opportunity of being a part of the Contract story. It is a wonderful time for our industry as it continues to evolve so rapidly. Contract is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this and I am confident I will be able to facilitate this process by partnering with the senior management team,” added Barua.

On the appointment, Ravi Deshpande, chairman and chief creative officer, Contract Advertising, said, “Contract has always been an attractive destination for people who are passionate about creativity and process of brand building. Rana with his diverse experience will add value to Contract and will help take the journey ahead. We look forward to having him on board.”

Barua has over 19 years of management experience. He has served as COO of Red FM and as head of marketing for Radio City, besides agency stints at HTA (JWT), Ogilvy, McCann and Y&R.