Publicis Groupe’s Leadership Evolution Amid a Changing Digital Landscape

Publicis Groupe SA, the Paris‑based advertising conglomerate listed on the NYSE Euronext Paris, has recently experienced a shift in its executive leadership across several of its regional subsidiaries. The moves, announced on 16 and 15 December 2025, reflect the group’s continued focus on strengthening its media operations and adapting to an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

New General Director in Slovenia

On 16 December 2025, Sanja Likar was appointed General Director of Publicis Groupe Slovenija, succeeding Tonij Tomaš whose mandate had concluded. Likar will take on the responsibility of steering the Slovenian arm of Publicis in a market that remains pivotal for the group’s European footprint. Her appointment follows the precedent set by the company’s broader strategy of decentralising leadership to better respond to local market dynamics while maintaining a cohesive global brand.

Expansion of the Indian Division

The following day, Publicis Groupe India announced the appointment of Atique Kazi as Chief Executive Officer of Performics India. This change is part of a broader effort to reinforce the company’s media operations in the South Asian market. Concurrently, Gautam Surath was promoted to Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, where he will oversee a team dedicated to expanding the group’s strategic reach and driving transformational initiatives across the division.

These appointments underscore Publicis Groupe’s intent to bolster its media and marketing capabilities in key growth markets. By placing experienced executives at the helm of its regional units, the company aims to enhance local execution while aligning with its global objectives.

Context: A Regulatory Tension Between the EU and the US

While the leadership updates signal internal consolidation, they come against a backdrop of heightened regulatory scrutiny from the United States. Recent statements from the Trump administration have warned of potential sanctions against European digital and media firms, citing concerns over the European Union’s digital tax regime and other regulatory measures. Although Publicis Groupe has not been named explicitly in these warnings, the company operates within a sector that is directly impacted by such geopolitical tensions.

The broader industry is watching closely as the U.S. and EU negotiate the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and related policy frameworks. The risk of retaliatory measures—particularly against firms with significant transatlantic operations—could influence strategic decisions at Publicis Groupe, especially in its media and digital services divisions.

Market Snapshot

  • Share price (15 Dec 2025): €88.5
  • 52‑week high (5 Feb 2025): €109.3
  • 52‑week low (6 Apr 2025): €72.1
  • Market capitalization: €22.4 bn
  • Price‑earnings ratio: 13.072

The company’s valuation reflects its diversified portfolio, spanning mobile and interactive online communication, television, print, cinema, radio, direct marketing, customer relationship management, sales promotion, and human resources services. With a global customer base and a history of adapting to evolving media landscapes, Publicis Groupe continues to navigate both opportunity and challenge in the rapidly transforming communication services sector.

In summary, the recent leadership changes in Slovenia and India demonstrate Publicis Groupe’s commitment to reinforcing its regional operations. Simultaneously, the company remains mindful of the shifting regulatory terrain between the EU and the U.S., which could shape its strategic trajectory in the years ahead.