Recently, Sunil G John made headlines as he decided to step away from ASDA’A-BCW, one of the top Advertising and PR companies in the Middle East that he founded two decades ago. Despite this significant move, his success story did not create much buzz in India compared to NRI success stories from the West
Sunil G John, hailing from Hyderabad, has emerged as a prominent figure in the Gulf region, earning accolades and recognition for his influential contributions. Recognized among the top 100 influential individuals in the Gulf nations, Sunil John is acknowledged for his significant role in establishing a robust presence in Public Relations and Advertising throughout the region. The annual ‘Arab Youth Survey,’ a brainchild of Sunil John and now in its 15th edition, is hailed as a landmark contribution, providing valuable insights into the aspirations and perspectives of the youth in the Gulf, according to siasat.com.
Recently, Sunil G John made headlines as he decided to step away from ASDA’A-BCW, one of the top Advertising and PR companies in the Middle East that he founded two decades ago. Despite this significant move, his success story did not create much buzz in India compared to NRI success stories from the West.
An astute leader, entrepreneur, and expert communicator, Sunil John, in his early 60s, sold his stake in ASDA’A-BCW, a part of the WPP Group of the UK, in October. He plans to transition to a new phase in 2024, with interests spanning investments, film production, and communications consultancy. While Dubai is set to be his primary residence, he intends to spend time in New York and Mumbai to pursue his future endeavors.
The media has highlighted that Sunil John’s departure will leave an indelible mark on the PR industry, with his personal touch being particularly missed. Colleagues and industry leaders, including figures like Akshaya Group founder Mohammad Alshaya, GMG Deputy Chairman Mohammad A Baker, and GEMS founder Sunny Varkey, have emphasized the impact of Sunil John’s influence in the industry.
As Sunil John prepares to leave ASDA’A-BCW as President (MENA) in early 2024, he looks forward to embarking on a new journey in the media and creative arts, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and innovation in the PR industry
Sunil John’s journey began in Hyderabad, where he attended Railway Junior College and Sardar Patel. Despite his college years in journalism, he found his calling in Public Relations. Starting as a reporter for Deccan Chronicle, he later ventured into the public and private sectors, eventually finding his way to Dubai, where he thrived in the business and media environment.
In 2000, Sunil John founded ASDA’A, turning it into a successful venture. Eight years later, WPP recognized the firm’s growth and professionalism, acquiring a majority stake. Over 25 years, Sunil John and his ASDA’A-BCW team have shaped the company into a global player, advising governments, securing global clients, and setting PR standards. Notably, the agency played a crucial role in the 2010 launch of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
One of Sunil John’s significant contributions is the ASDA’A-BCW Arab Youth Survey, initiated in 2008. This annual exercise has become a widely cited piece of public opinion research in the Middle East, gaining recognition from media and policymakers globally.
Under Sunil John’s leadership, ASDA’A-BCW expanded to 8 wholly owned offices and 7 associates across 15 countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). He also oversees three wholly owned subsidiaries, including GCI Health Middle East, Proof Communications, and PSB Insights ME.
Sunil John’s contributions have earned him various accolades, including being named the Best PR Professional in the Middle East at the PRWeek Global Awards in May 2020. In 2014, he became the first PR professional in the Middle East to receive the Outstanding Individual Achievement SABRE Award (EMEA) from PRovoke.
As Sunil John prepares to leave ASDA’A-BCW as President (MENA) in early 2024, he looks forward to embarking on a new journey in the media and creative arts, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and innovation in the PR industry.
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