Based in London, Instinctif said Bhattacharya will have a particular responsibility for growing and developing its energy and industrial client portfolio, and adding to the agency's current international new business development, acceleration programmes and crisis management capabilities.
He was at Edelman for nine years, which included stints as MD for energy and industrials (Europe & CIS) and MD of sister consultancy A&R Edelman.
Before moving into comms, Bhattacharya spent a decade in journalism, including as a political correspondent for ITV Granada and as a reporter on the Liverpool Daily Post & Echo.
Tim Fallon, managing partner, global corporate affairs, at Instinctif said: "His ability to provide strategic counsel at the highest levels, while delivering high quality, high impact corporate reputation programmes across international and national marketplaces, is second to none. As Instinctif Partners continues to grow rapidly, I’ve no doubt Rishi will become a significant hire."
Bhattacharya said: "I look forward to delivering for Instinctif’s current and future client base and working with Tim and other colleagues here in London and across Instinctif Partners’ international network."