Mumbai: In a significant leadership development, Suraja Kishore has stepped down as the CEO of BBDO India, concluding a successful six-year stint that saw the agency strengthen its creative leadership and expand strategic partnerships. Kishore also helmed Team India (Omnicom x BBDO x Mercedes-Benz) during his tenure.
He has confirmed his departure from BBDO India to MediaNews4U.
Sharing his thoughts exclusively with MediaNews4U, Suraja Kishore said, “I am not moving on; I am moving forward. You can’t quit a culture. You can only take the culture forward. BBDO is not a company; it’s a culture with its own tribe! Nurturing and growing this tribe has been one of the most fulfilling experiences.
I have always chosen people over company. I chose Josy, and we have had a wonderful intuitive partnership. We made BBDO India the best office with a ‘creative culture’ across BBDO Asia offices. We scored some wonderful clients and created campaigns that have defined industry benchmarks. In the past, I have had a great partnership with Prasoon and Balki. I am not moving on from here; rather, I am moving forward with a huge sense of discovery.
And to borrow from Proust – the real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new lands but seeing with new eyes, and to get those new eyes one needs to break away from the land one belongs to.”
Known for his strategic clarity and creative vision, Kishore played a pivotal role in steering BBDO India through a fast-evolving marketing landscape. Under his leadership, the agency delivered several acclaimed campaigns and deepened its client relationships, reinforcing its standing as one of the country’s leading creative powerhouses.
With over two decades of experience in the advertising and communications industry, Kishore has held leadership roles at top agencies such as McCann Worldgroup, where he was EVP & GM – McCann Mumbai and National Head of Planning at Truth Central. His earlier roles also include Executive Planning Director at McCann, National Planning Director at Publicis Groupe, and senior leadership at Lowe Lintas.
Recognized as a leader who blends strategic insight with a deep understanding of brand growth and culture, Kishore is widely respected in the industry for his ability to guide brands with clarity and purpose.
While Kishore’s next move is yet to be officially announced, his departure marks the end of a transformative chapter for BBDO India and signals new beginnings ahead.
