Burson Group has appointed Kapil Sharma as chief client officer for India, reinforcing the agency’s focus on client relationships, strategic growth and reputation-led communications. Sharma will report to Deepshikha Dharmaraj, chief executive officer, Burson Group India.
The appointment marks Sharma’s return to Burson, where he started his communications career through the agency’s Associate Learning Programme. He brings more than two decades of experience in strategic communications and reputation management across global brands and multinational organisations.
Before joining Burson Group India, Sharma spent over 12 years at Ford Motor Company. During his tenure, he served as head of communications, India, overseeing the company’s corporate, brand, social and CSR communications strategy. Most recently, he worked as director of communications for International Markets Group, based in Bangkok, Thailand. In that role, he led product communications across nine international markets, managed experiential marketing initiatives and drove integrated go-to-market campaigns. Earlier in his career, Sharma also led communications for BMW India.
In his new role, Sharma will oversee Burson India’s client engagement strategy, with a focus on strengthening long-term partnerships, improving client retention and supporting business growth. He will also lead new business development across sectors including automotive, aviation, travel, manufacturing, renewable energy and professional services.
As part of Burson India’s management team, Sharma will work closely with the leadership team to support the agency’s expansion plans and market growth strategy in India. The appointment aligns with Burson’s continued emphasis on integrated communications, reputation management and AI-led innovation for clients.
Deepshikha Dharmaraj, chief executive officer, Burson Group India, said, “We are incredibly excited to welcome Kapil Sharma back to Burson as Chief Client Officer for Burson Group India. His knowledge and experience will be instrumental in scaling our capabilities, driving value for clients through transformative ideas and AI-driven innovation, and further strengthening Burson India’s position as a modern PR powerhouse.”
Burson said Sharma’s appointment reflects the company’s ongoing investment in leadership and client excellence as it expands its strategic communications and advisory capabilities in India.
Burson operates as part of WPP and focuses on communications, reputation management and advisory services for brands and businesses globally. The company works with specialised teams and technology-led capabilities to support brand positioning, corporate reputation and integrated communications strategies.
