Successful Career Story of Partho Dasgupta Ex. CEO of BARC
In the dynamic world of media and technology, few professionals have left as indelible a mark as Partho Dasgupta. With a rich career spanning diverse consumer industries, media management, and technology, Dasgupta’s journey is a testament to innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Early Ventures and Media Pioneering
Partho Dasgupta’s career took off in the media and consumer industries, where he quickly established himself as a visionary leader. His early ventures saw him spearheading large and small start-up media projects, notably at Times Now, Future Media, The Economic Times, and Times Multimedia. Each role honed his skills and broadened his understanding of the evolving media landscape.
A keen observer of consumer and media trends, Partho Dasgupta insights were instrumental in shaping strategies that resonated with audiences. His ability to foresee shifts in technology and consumer behavior allowed him to stay ahead of the curve, driving growth and innovation.
Revolutionizing Broadcast Audience Measurement
One of Partho Dasgupta most notable achievements was his tenure as the first CEO of BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council), a joint initiative by broadcasters, advertising agencies, and advertisers. Tasked with developing a new Broadcast Audience Measurement system, Dasgupta faced the monumental challenge of starting operations from scratch.
Under his leadership, BARC not only established itself but also revolutionized the industry. He devised a unique funding model from banks and managed a multi-stakeholder board, ensuring government and regulatory compliance. His efforts led to the creation of the world’s most advanced technology architecture, incorporating M2M and big data capabilities. The initiative reached 3,000 towns and villages across India, making the BARC panel the largest globally. This achievement was a game-changer for the Indian media landscape, providing more accurate and comprehensive audience metrics.
Leadership in Education and Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Dasgupta’s expertise extends beyond media. As a leader in India’s largest education company, he turned around the preschool business and spearheaded the inorganic growth in K-12 schools. His strategic vision and management acumen revitalized these sectors, demonstrating his versatility and ability to drive success across industries.
In addition to his corporate roles, Dasgupta’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found a media company with colleagues. This venture further showcased his ability to innovate and lead in a highly competitive environment. His advisory roles with media start-ups and venture firms underscored his reputation as a trusted strategist in brand and management.
Recognitions and Contributions
Dasgupta’s contributions to the industry have been widely recognized. In 2018, he was honored as the ‘Best CEO of the Year’ at the 3rd Annual Digital Studio India Awards and received the GAMECHANGER Editorial Choice award. His leadership was further acknowledged in 2019 when he was elected as The Advertising Club President. Forbes recognized him as one of India’s Top 100 People Managers, and in 2015, he was named MXMIndia Media Person of the Year.
His influence extends to various industry bodies, having served as the Past President of The Advertising Club and a member of the Managing Committee of CII, the International Advertising Association (IAA), and the MMA for several years. As a speaker at multiple events and forums, including TEDx, Dasgupta shares his insights on media and consumer trends, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Partho Dasgupta journey is a remarkable narrative of leadership, innovation, and resilience. His ability to navigate and shape the media, technology, and education sectors has left a lasting impact. As he continues to influence and inspire, Dasgupta’s story serves as a beacon for aspiring professionals, illustrating that with vision and determination, one can indeed change the game.
