Monks, the digital-first, data-driven global brand of S4Capital plc, has appointed Rajat Mendhi as Head of Planning for its India operations, effective immediately. In his new role, Mendhi has led the strategic planning and cultural insight development function, bringing deep experience in building transformative campaigns that balance cultural relevance with business impact.
He has collaborated closely with Ketan Desai, Managing Director of Monks India; Sandipan Bhattacharyya, Chief Creative Officer; and Niranjan Singh, Head of Media, as the agency has continued to strengthen its integrated offering across strategy, creative, media, and data in the Indian market.
Prior to joining Monks, Mendhi has held a notable tenure at BBDO India, where he has played a pivotal role in establishing the agency as one of the country’s most effective and creatively awarded. His strategic leadership has powered iconic campaigns such as Ariel’s #ShareTheLoad and Whisper’s #TouchThePickle, both of which have sparked national conversations and earned global acclaim, including India’s first Cannes Glass Lion Grand Prix.
Recognised among the Top 10 planners globally by The Big Won Report, Mendhi has also ventured beyond advertising with Bombay Picnics, a food and culture initiative that blends storytelling and community engagement. He has further consulted for restaurants, hotels, and beverage brands, using his strategic lens to craft brand-led dining experiences.
With this appointment, Monks has strengthened its commitment to helping clients navigate the intersection of culture, creativity, and technology. The agency has continued to align strategy with real-time data optimisation, AI-driven insights, and cross-platform execution to deliver meaningful engagement and long-term value for brands in India’s fast-evolving market.
“Advertising is undergoing a profound transformation, creativity today is inseparable from technology and data. At Monks, this convergence isn’t a hurdle, it’s the engine of innovation and forward momentum. That ethos aligns with how I approach strategy: evolving with the times while anchored in human truth. Joining Monks India is an exciting opportunity to shape how brands connect with people and culture, and thrive in a fast-changing landscape, even as communication itself redefines its own future,” said Rajat Mendhi, Head of Planning, Monks India.
“Rajat’s appointment represents a significant strengthening of our strategic capabilities in India,” said Ketan Desai, Managing Director, Monks India. “He has a proven ability to turn cultural conversations into business movements. As Head of Planning, he brings the rare combination of cultural intelligence and commercial insight that helps brands thrive in the India market.”
