Khawar Azhar, our dynamic Chief Operating Officer, boasts a remarkable 34-year journey across the diverse spectrum of media and communication. With a career spanning strategic communication, journalism, public relations, media marketing, content development, digital campaigning, project management, and publication, Mr. Azhar is a seasoned professional par excellence.

As the head of operations and a strategic communications expert, Khawar has a proven track record in conceptualizing, planning, and executing large and intricate communication projects. His forte lies in crafting marketing and programming strategies that have left an indelible mark on both public and private sector organizations.

Beginning as a journalist in 1991, Mr. Azhar’s transformative leadership journey led him to the role of COO at Communications Research Strategies in 2008. During his tenure, he not only diversified the company’s portfolio but also exponentially increased its revenue potential by setting new service standards. His influence extends to an impressive clientele, including the Embassy of USA, British High Commission, ISPR, FC, United States Institute of Peace (USIP), Oxfam Novib, Federation of Open Society Institutes (FOSI), DFID, TDEA, and UNDP.

His stints as Director Marketing at Pakistan Television Corporation (2004-2006) and Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer (2018-2020) were instrumental in reshaping content and operations, leading to a substantial surge in viewership and revenue for the state-owned television network.

Mr. Azhar’s contributions extend to the media landscape, as he oversaw the establishment of three radio stations for Dawn Media Group in 2004, FM-89. 

Khawar has to his credit a number of successful and huge television productions as part of various strategic communication campaigns. One of his most acclaimed endeavors with ISPR was the creation of the drama serial ‘Khuda Zamin Se Gaya Nahin,’ addressing terrorism in Swat Valley. It received national recognition with the PTV award and the ‘Lux Style Award’ for the best drama serial of 2009, alongside an award for the best script.

Additionally, as the Editor-in-Chief, Khawar brought to life the quarterly magazine ‘Salam Pakistan,’ which not only instilled hope in Pakistani youth but also promoted the brand ‘Pakistan.’

Khawar Azhar is a visionary leader whose extensive expertise has left an indelible mark on the world of media and communication in Pakistan. His transformative contributions continue to drive CRS’s mission to elevate strategic communication to new heights.