Sunil Gautam to step down as chairman, Hanmer MSL

Sunil Gautam, founder & outgoing chairman, Hanmer MSL

In a move that's been in the offing for a while, Sunil Gautam, chairman and founder, Hanmer MSL, has announced his decision to step down and hand over full responsibilities of the agency to Jaideep Shergill. Shergill will continue as chief executive officer, a role he took on in 2010, and no new chairman will be appointed.

Jaideep Shergill, CEO, Hanmer MSL

Speaking to Campaign India, Gautam said, "I haven't decided what's in the future as yet, but I will surely do something. Hanmer is more important to me, since it's a company that I founded here in 1999. I'm really very proud of the level it has reached and it is one of the top ranking agencies in the country today. Apart from being one of the finest gentlemen I have ever met and worked with, Jaideep is very passionate and the right person to take Hanmer forward on its current growth path." 

Shergill said, "Sunil is someone who started the agency and played an important role all through. While it is important for him to retire and do the other things he wants to, we will continue to use his advice when required, and work out how we can work with him informally."

On Hanmer's plans for the year, he said, "Our vision is clear - we had a good year in 2010 and we want to continue on the growth path. We hired various senior level people last year and want them to start delivering. The leadership team is in place now, and ready to take on responsibilities. We also want to become stronger in the realm of social media."