Celebrating Valerie Pinto's years of passion, leadership and impact

Today, we celebrate the birthday of  Valerie Pinto, a leader who has spent over three decades shaping the communications industry with clarity, courage and heart.

As Managing Director, India and Executive Director, Corporate Asia at APCO Worldwide, Valerie leads with experience and vision. Over the years, she has advised top companies, built strong teams and helped organisations tell their stories with honesty and purpose.

Her journey began with a love for storytelling and the belief that communication can truly make a difference. For 15 years at Perfect Relations, she played a key role in strengthening the agency’s reputation and expanding its influence and rose to become one of the youngest CEOs in India’s PR industry. She helped build teams, nurture talent and deliver strategic counsel across industries, contributing significantly to the firm’s growth and credibility in the Indian market. She then went on to spend a decade at Weber Shandwick India. During her 10-year tenure, she led the agency through expansion, cultural transformation and business growth. Under her leadership, Weber Shandwick India strengthened its integrated approach, built strong client partnerships and earned industry recognition. 

Across 30 years, Valerie has worked across sectors, advised top corporates and mentored countless professionals. She is known for her sharp strategic mind, but equally for her empathy and belief in people.

Beyond business, she has always believed in giving back. As a founding member of the Global Network for Women in PR and a supporter of the United Nations Women’s Empowerment Principles Secretariat, she has championed women in leadership and inclusive workplaces. Through her association with PATH India, she has also contributed to important health and social initiatives.

There is also another side to her story. What many may not know is that she is also a national-level athlete and an accomplished pastry chef. Sports gave her discipline and resilience. Baking reflects her creativity and attention to detail. Both passions beautifully mirror the way she leads focused, patient and always striving for excellence.

On her birthday, we celebrate not just her titles, but her journey, her energy and the many lives she has influenced along the way. Here’s wishing Valerie Pinto a wonderful year ahead, may she continue to inspire, lead and create impact wherever she goes.