Singapore: Omnicom Media Group (OMG), the media services division of Omnicom, has announced the appointment of Rochelle Chhaya as the CEO of Hearts & Science APAC. Chhaya, a 14-year veteran of OMG and former CEO of OMG Thailand, becomes the first APAC CEO of the network. She will spearhead the continued growth and regional expansion of Hearts & Science, building on the agency’s success since its 2019 launch in Australia and New Zealand.
The appointment underscores OMG’s commitment to leveraging its Agency as a Platform model and Omni open operating system, enabling Hearts & Science APAC to integrate talent and capabilities from across OMG and Omnicom to deliver impactful, data-driven media strategies.
Tony Harradine, CEO of OMG APAC, emphasized Chhaya’s credentials, “Expanding the Hearts & Science footprint across a region that is an epicentre for economic expansion, technological innovation, and digital commerce demands a seasoned leader who possesses operational experience with a deep understanding of the modern consumer’s priorities and behaviours. Combined with the digital and data expertise needed to help brands effectively engage with their customers across an increasingly complex media ecosystem, we have found that leader in Rochelle, someone who can bring both the ‘heart’ and the ‘science’ to the business.”
In her previous role as CEO of OMG Thailand, Chhaya achieved three consecutive years of growth, with billings rising by 58% between 2020 and 2023, according to COMvergence. Earlier, as COO of OMD APAC, she scaled a client-focused, data-driven agency model across the region. Chhaya also helped establish OMG’s data and analytics division, Annalect, during her tenure in Thailand.
On her new role, Chhaya stated, “Hearts & Science aims to revolutionise connections planning and drive our clients’ business ambitions by combining data-driven insights with the art of creative storytelling. Asia Pacific is brimming with opportunities, and we are committed to harnessing the strong demand for consultative, modular media strategies that align with our clients’ evolving needs. By going beyond traditional media KPIs and fostering strategic partnerships, we’re continuously refining our offerings to create meaningful impact. Together with our clients, we will unlock new possibilities for driving brand growth across the region.”
One of Chhaya’s initial priorities as CEO will be overseeing the launch of Hearts & Science in Malaysia and Taiwan, set for Q1 2025.
Chhaya will report directly to Harradine and, until a successor is named, will continue to oversee operations in Thailand alongside OMG Thailand COO Jinnarat Sampuntharat and the executive team.
