Himanshu Shekhar joins Indonesia's Emtek after two decades at WPP Media

Himanshu Shekhar (pictured), former CEO of WPP Media for Southeast Asia, has made the leap from the agency world to join Indonesia’s technology and media conglomerate Elang Mahkota Teknologi (Emtek) as head of eCommerce. The appointment was made official on 24 September 2025.

Shekhar, who brings over two decades of experience from WPP Media (previously GroupM), has worked with leading global and local brands including Unilever, Nestlé, P&G, IKEA, Gojek, L'Oréal, and Godrej. His expertise in developing large-scale client solutions and navigating strategies in fast-evolving digital markets is expected to play a key role in Emtek’s mission to connect content, commerce, and community.

“I feel honoured to be part of Emtek. Emtek is a powerhouse in the media and entertainment industry with a visionary outlook,” Shekhar said.

Don't miss: GroupM SEA CEO Himanshu Shekhar steps down after 2 decades with firm

In his new role, Shekhar will oversee the integration of Emtek’s diverse ecosystem - from its extensive content production capabilities and leading media platforms to its millions of daily consumer interactions - aimed at building a robust commerce engine in Indonesia.

The appointment aligns with Emtek’s strategic ambition to lead the next wave of consumer engagement in Indonesia by leveraging the strength of its media and commerce divisions. This direction also comes as the industry grows increasingly results-driven, placing digital commerce and performance marketing at the heart of brand strategies.

With this leadership addition, Emtek signals its intent to go beyond content creation and media ownership - toward shaping a unified ecosystem where commerce and community engagement drive the next phase of Indonesia’s digital economy.

Emtek, established in 1983 and headquartered in Jakarta, has transformed from a personal-computer service provider into a major integrated technology, media, and digital-commerce conglomerate. Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, the group is majority-controlled by the Sariaatmadja family with significant additional shareholders.

The group’s portfolio spans free-to-air television networks, digital platforms, healthcare services, financial-digital solutions, and aviation-support businesses. Its broadcasting and new-media arm operates prominent TV channels such as Surya Citra Media and the OTT service Vidio. Emtek is also a significant shareholder in eCommerce giant Bukalapak.

Shekhar brings 23 years of experience from WPP Media, where he spent eight years in India and 15 in Indonesia. He also held several leadership roles at Mindshare, including CEO for Southeast Asia.

Related articles:
Alibaba to raise US$3.2bn for cloud and eCommerce expansion
Indonesia's new tax rule may force eCommerce brands to rethink their future
TikTok Shop joins forces with DTI to empower MSMEs through eCommerce training