NEW DELHI—Edelman has named Rakesh Thukral to the role of India MD, overseeing the firm's 400-strong workforce across 11 cities.

Thukral, who was previously chief operating officer, will continue to report to South Asia, Africa and Middle East CEO Robert Holdheim.

Holdheim previously led India until he was promoted to the regional role at the start of 2013. “Rakesh is well-positioned to drive Edelman India into its next phase of business growth,” said Holdheim.

“He is a talented, seasoned leader and has a strong team to support him. It gives me tremendous pleasure to hand over the baton to Rakesh, at a time when we are at the cusp of exploring a dynamic new world of communications.  

Thukral joined Edelman India in 2010 from Comma Consulting. After establishing Edelman's public affairs and advocacy practice, he took on additional COO duties in 2012. Prior to Comma, he spent 14 years at IPAN H+K.