WPP Media has announced a senior leadership change in South Asia, promoting Shekhar Banerjee to the role of president, client solutions, South Asia, following the departure of Ajay Gupte after a 15-year association with the group. The move underlines WPP Media’s intent to deepen client partnerships while delivering integrated, future-ready media solutions across the region.
Banerjee joined WPP Media in 2018 as managing partner – west at Wavemaker India, where he was instrumental in strengthening client relationships, building high-performing teams, and driving business growth. His impact led to a promotion in 2023 to chief client officer – west, north and east at Wavemaker India, a role in which he further advanced client-centric strategies and championed innovative, cross-channel media thinking.
Gupte, who has been with WPP Media since 2011 across India and South East Asia, played a pivotal role in scaling the agency’s footprint and establishing Wavemaker as one of the country’s leading media networks.
Commenting on the development, Prasanth Kumar, CEO – South Asia, WPP Media, said that Banerjee’s elevation comes at a time when marketers are seeking integrated, data-led solutions capable of delivering measurable outcomes. He highlighted Banerjee’s leadership in product delivery across digital and offline platforms, his commitment to nurturing talent, and his role in building campaigns that earn client trust. Kumar also thanked Gupte for his long-standing contribution and wished him well for the future.
Shekhar Banerjee, speaking on his new role, noted that the convergence of creativity, data, and technology is creating fresh opportunities at WPP Media. He added that he looks forward to collaborating with teams to craft solutions that generate tangible value for clients while steering the organisation into its next phase of growth.
Reflecting on his exit, Ajay Gupte said that his 15 years at WPP Media, across multiple roles, had been defined by learning, collaboration, and strong relationships. He shared his gratitude for the experiences that shaped his career and said he was excited about embarking on new professional journeys ahead.