First Partners elevates Dilip Yadav to vice-chairman & CEO as Atul Ahluwalia turns non-executive chairman; Santanu Gogoi named MD

New Delhi, July 15, 2026:  First Partners today announced key leadership updates as it marks 10 years since its inception in 2016. As part of the transition, Atul Ahluwalia will move into the role of non-executive chairman, while Dilip Yadav has been named vice chairman & CEO and Santanu Gogoi has been named MD of the firm.

First Partners was founded by former Weber Shandwick leadership team Atul Ahluwalia, Dilip Yadav and Santanu Gogoi, with the objective of building a consulting-led communications firm focused on strategic counsel, high-impact campaigns and measurable business outcomes. First Partners works with a portfolio of leading global and Indian brands across sectors, including Rolls-Royce, Coca-Cola, Hyundai Motor India, McDonald’s North & East, Bain & Company, Education New Zealand, ITC Ltd, HDFC Bank, Vedanta Iron & Steel, Max Healthcare, ITC Hotels among others.

Two years ago, First Partners joined SEC Newgate Group, the Milan-headquartered global strategic communications and advocacy group, as its exclusive affiliate in India. 

Commenting on the milestone and leadership transition, Atul Ahluwalia, non-executive chairman, First Partners, said: “First Partners was built on a simple but powerful belief — that communications must go beyond visibility and create real business impact. As the firm completes 10 years, this is the right moment to institutionalise the next phase of leadership. Dilip and Santanu have been central to the firm’s journey from day one, and I am confident that under their leadership First Partners will continue to strengthen its position as a premier communications consulting firm in India.”

Atul Ahluwalia brings more than three and a half decades of consulting experience and has led several award-winning campaigns recognised on Indian and global platforms. Prior to co-founding First Partners, he spent over two decades at Weber Shandwick and was vice-chairman of its India operations.

Dilip Yadav, vice chairman & CEO, First Partners, said: “The first decade of First Partners has been about building credibility, trust and a differentiated consulting model. The next decade will be about scaling that model with sharper focus, deeper specialisation and stronger impact for clients. We will continue to build on our strengths in corporate reputation, advocacy, public policy communication and high-stakes strategic counsel, while investing in content, research, digital and integrated communication capabilities.”

Before co-founding First Partners, Yadav spent two decades at Weber Shandwick, where he held senior leadership roles including managing director for Creation, India, which was later rechristened Current Global.

Santanu Gogoi, managing director, First Partners, said: "Our next phase is focused on building a stronger, more resilient First Partners. My focus will be on driving sustainable growth, nurturing exceptional talent, deepening client partnerships, strengthening operational capabilities, and fostering a culture of ownership and collaboration that enables long-term success.” 

Santanu Gogoi brings two and a half decades of experience in public relations and corporate communications. Before co-founding First Partners, he spent over 12 years at Weber Shandwick India, where he was vice-president, corporate practice.