
Essence, a global digital agency in which GroupM had acquired majority stake in November 2015, has been launched in India. It kicks off with a 'unified Essence-Maxus team' based in GroupM's NCR office.
The office is the agency's fifth in Asia Pacific and third to open this year, after Shanghai and Sydney.
Besides moving Essence and Maxus employees for the Indian operation, the agency is also looking to recruit talent across roles.
Kunal Guha, client partner and head of strategy, Apac, is currently the Essence India office lead, reporting to Kyoko Matsushita, CEO, Apac. Guha is based in Singapore.
Matsushita said, "Just over three years ago, Essence opened its first Apac office in Singapore. It’s incredible what we’ve been able to accomplish in such a short period of time. Working with innovative clients has helped Essence unlock opportunities to bring digital innovation to the region. We see even more opportunity in India and are excited to align with GroupM as we navigate this crucial market.”
CVL Srinivas, CEO, South Asia, GroupM Asia, said, "We are delighted to bring Essence into India at a time when more and more clients are looking at cutting edge digital media solutions for their brands. With their very focussed approach they have built deep client engagements globally. Our digital offering in India is further strengthened by their opening of an office here.”