Havas’ Anita Nayyar wins CEO of the Year

Campaign Asia-Pacific’s Women Leading Change Awards 2018 unveiled its recipients last week in Singapore, rewarding 29 of APAC’s most outstanding executives across 11 categories for their professional contribution over the past year. Now in its second year, the awards aim to nurture and champion women who have achieved notable accomplishments in their workplaces, including standing up for positive values that endorse equality and diversity. 

This year’s top honour, CEO of the Year, went to Anita Nayyar, CEO - India & South Asia, Havas Media Group and CEO - Havas Group, North India. It was indeed a proud moment for Havas as Anita represented her region and was recognized amongst APAC’s top executives.

Anita’s decade plus one with Havas Media India, has seen the agency grow 15 times in 11 years, from a ‘Reckitt Agency’ to 100+ clients, from 40 to 400+ professionals, from 2 to 8 offices across India today. She has also been instrumental in expanding Havas’ footprint in the emerging South Asia markets - Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Recently promoted to be the CEO – Havas Group, North India, Anita leads both media and creative divisions under the Group’s ‘Together’ approach. With a stellar career of over 30 years, Anita truly is a veteran of the Indian media industry. 

Vishnu Mohan, Chairman & CEO, Havas Group, India & South East Asia

Vishnu Mohan, Chairman & CEO, Havas Group, India & South East Asia said, “Anita’s determination and passion is a testament to Havas Group India’ success and growth over the years. She has imbibed trust, transparency and commitment as core values throughout her career and that is what defines her in the industry. We are all very proud of her achievements and lucky to have a fine professional like her lead by example. I hope she continues to be an inspiration to the next generation of leaders.”

Anita Nayyar said, “I’m truly humbled to receive this award, which is also a recognition for Havas and every staff member that helps make this agency all that it is, and my family, without whose support I would not be where I am today. I am also thankful to Campaign Asia for encouraging such awards that allows the spotlight to be placed on gender equality and sets out to champion the women change makers, leaders and rising stars among us, working in the media, advertising and marketing industry.”