Vishal

Rana

Director,

Mischief

"

A former music and culture journalist, his bylines include The Independent, Interview Magazine, and Evening Standard

Vish has spent over a decade helping brands connect with consumers through clever, impactful creative campaigns and effective narrative-driven press offices.

Passionate about culture-first thinking delivering commercial impact, Vish fosters a creative environment that champions diversity and empowers teams to bring fresh perspectives to the table.

A former music and culture journalist, his bylines include The Independent, Interview Magazine, and Evening Standard. This storytelling background sharpens his ability to craft narratives that bridge journalism and brand communications.

Currently leading key accounts including Experian and Disney, having previously spearheaded award-winning campaigns for brands such as LEGO, Amazon, Huawei, Samsung and Team GB. Vish was also The Pro Awards Consumer Pro of the Year in 2024.

q&a

Why did you sign up to be a judge for The Pros Awards 2026?

The comms industry has a well-known image problem, which becomes even more significant when you consider that our jobs require us to speak to the nation—whether for brands, as individuals, or even on behalf of government departments.

How can we do that effectively if our industry doesn’t reflect the nation itself? A more diverse workforce is a more impactful workforce. I want to do my bit to make sure we celebrate and encourage diversity.

What Insta/LinkedIn/Tik Tok account should every comms pro follow and why?

Currently @Prtraitors on Instagram. I’ve loved watching The Traitors and I’m a fan of a bit of self-aware self-depreciation, whichever industry colleague it is, kudos to you.

Away from the LOLs I’m a big fan of @Vicmensa, a rapper and a super smart guy with a great way of breaking down societal issues.

What was your favourite PR/comms campaign from 2025 and why?

Great Ormond Street Hospital and Hope and Glory’s butterfly sculpture on Millenium Bridge back in September – 253 butterflies to mark the lives of the 253 children that lose their lives to cancer every year.

The creative was simple yet powerful, the photos were great and it helped raise important funds.

Loved it.

As always, we’ve got a great DJ booked for The Pros Awards award ceremony in September – what’s your dance floor filler request?

Chic – Le Freak.