BANGALORE, INDIA: Nasscom announced that Pramod Bhasin has been appointed as the Chairman of its Executive Council for the year 2009-2010.

Pramod succeeds Ganesh Natarajan, who was the Chairman for the year 2008-09. He has been a member of Nasscom Executive Council and is the president and CEO of Genpact. NASSCOM also announced the appointment of Harsh Manglik as the vice chairman of the council. Harsh is the chairman and geography managing director for Accenture in India.

Som Mittal, president, Nasscom, said: "Pramod brings a wealth of experience in IT – BPO sector that would be immensely relevant to the challenges facing the industry today. He is widely known for his adept leadership and ability to take bold decisions. His experience in global business will be a valuable asset to Nasscom. We would also like to thank Ganesh for providing guidance to Nasscom in the year of uncertainties and global turmoil".

Pramod Bhasin, chairman, Nasscom, and president & CEO, Genpact, said: "While we are experiencing the worst economic downturn of our life, I believe that there has never been a more relevant time for the IT-BPO Industry to prove its worth. In these difficult times, we have the potential to help global corporations not only cut cost and preserve cash, but also become more efficient, innovative and profitable. We view this is as a huge opportunity, which will help us maintain our leadership position and sustain our growth.

"As a part of Nasscom, I will continue to provide leadership to the Indian IT-BPO industry globally as well as focus on key initiatives such as education, infrastructure, security and corporate governance that are crucial for the growth and reputation of our industry," Bhasin added.