Publicis Media has recently announced several significant senior appointments, including the promotion of Kershnee Pillay to managing director of Starcom. Alongside her, Brian Muguto has been appointed as head of strategy, and Kevin Ndinguri takes on the role of chief investment officer.
Pillay’s ascent to the role of MD at Starcom highlights her esteemed reputation within the advertising and media sectors. She is well-regarded for her ability to craft compelling brand narratives and demonstrate creativity across various communication channels, particularly in the Middle Eastern and African markets. Her experience spans both agency and client perspectives, equipping her with a unique understanding of the challenges faced by premium brands.
In addition to her leadership skills, Pillay is a graduate of the 2019 Stanford Leadership Program for Strategic Entrepreneurs in Africa and is noted for her expertise in media intelligence and data optimisation, which enhances client value.
Meanwhile, Muguto brings over a decade of experience in integrated communications and business development. His previous role as managing director at PHD involved steering the agency through a significant transformation. Prior to this, he was the chief strategy and product innovation officer at Essence Mediacom, where he unified data, technology, and creative strategies to foster client growth. His contributions to the industry were recognised when he served on the jury for the IAB Bookmark Awards in 2024.
Kevin Ndinguri, with more than 15 years in media and marketing leadership, has been appointed chief investment officer. He previously held the position of chief client officer at IPG Mediabrands, where he drove successful results for various clients. His recognition as one of the Top 10 Most Admired Media Agency Professionals by Agency Scope underscores his influence in the field. Ndinguri’s recent focus has been on adapting to the evolving investment landscape, particularly concerning global data and privacy regulations.
These appointments aim to reinforce Publicis Media’s commitment to delivering top-notch strategic and investment capabilities, ensuring that clients receive exceptional value and outcomes as they navigate an increasingly complex media environment.