Darshan Patil steps into the role of Senior Director, Media Planning at Starcom, marking another significant milestone in his 12-year journey across the media and marketing landscape. Known for his outcome-driven approach and ability to shape integrated media strategies, he brings a strong foundation in brand building, cross-channel planning, and performance-led media execution. His expertise spans FMCG, technology, beauty, and retail—categories where he has driven strong business results and enhanced brand visibility.
Darshan has been a key contributor at Starcom for more than three years, previously serving as Director – Media Planning, where he led impactful campaigns rooted in consumer insights, competitive analysis, and strategic allocation of media spends. His ability to optimize budgets, enhance media effectiveness, and align campaigns with business KPIs has made him a trusted partner to national and global brands. His progression into this senior leadership role reflects his growing influence within the organisation’s planning ecosystem.
Prior to Starcom, Darshan held senior leadership roles at Mindshare, where he served as Senior Director and later as Director at The Exchange. Across these roles, he played a pivotal part in shaping media strategies, managing large-scale budgets, and driving multi-market campaign performance. His experience at Mindshare strengthened his capabilities in connections planning, remarketing, and steering high-value brand mandates across dynamic and competitive sectors.
Darshan’s career foundation was built at leading agencies including Madison World, Maxus Global, and Percept Media. His work across diverse mandates enabled him to sharpen his understanding of paid media, KPI-driven strategy, and campaign optimization. Early in his career, he also gained consulting exposure at Capgemini, adding analytical rigor and project management strength to his marketing profile—skills that continue to elevate his leadership approach today.
In his new capacity as Senior Director, Media Planning at Starcom, Darshan will contribute to strengthening client partnerships, enhancing strategic planning frameworks, and driving innovative, effectiveness-led media solutions. His extensive experience, attention to detail, and commitment to building strong brand outcomes position him as a key driver in Starcom’s continued growth journey.