Here?s a first for an Indian adman. Prasoon Joshi, executive chairman, McCann Worldgroup India has been appointed as chairman of worldwide McCann Erickson creative leadership council, elevating him to a virtual global creative head?s role at the Interpublic Group agency.
?It definitely feels good but at the same time it is a huge responsibility,? said Joshi, adding ?we?ve proved our worth in a lot of industries such as IT. Creative industries are difficult to break into. It takes time. Now the world is looking at us and I?ve always believed that we?ve got great talent here. It also tells a lot about Nick Brien, the CEO of McCann Worldgroup ? his conviction and his vision to have entrusted us with this responsibility.? Joshi will continue to be based in India, and will lead the six-member strong creative leadership council along with his current role.
This isn?t the first time he has created history. Last year, he became the first Indian on the board of McCann Worldgroup. He was also the first Indian on the Titanium & Integrated jury at Cannes Advertising Festival 2009.
So, does he have in mind a blueprint to shoulder his new responsibility? ?I have always believed in working hard. Like I say naa jaane kis desh mein narayan mil jaaye. I?ve written even a small pamphlet with utmost sincerity. That?s how it will be in future as well.?
Joshi admits to be ?happiest to be part of this era. This is not an era of compartmentalisation. The lines between different compartments have blurred. Earlier, I was asked why I juggle so many different functions ? ad jingles, lyrics, conceptualising Commonwealth Games ceremonies… Now, people realise that it’s not just about one function. It actually belongs together.? Joshi is also one of Bollywood’s most sought-after lyricists as well as dialogue writer. Also, an author of four books, he has to his credit the Happy Dent campaign and several blockbuster jingles such as Sach dikhate hain hum and, Thanda matlab Coca-Cola.