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The Canada-India Business Council has appointed Shuchita Sonalika as its first chief operating officer, effective September 1, 2026.
Sonalika is an international affairs executive with nearly 18 years of experience advancing India’s economic partnerships across North America, Europe and other global markets, C-IBC said in a statement.
She most recently served as director and head of North America at the Confederation of Indian Industry in Washington, D.C., where she oversaw the organization’s engagement across the United States and Canada. She previously led CII’s operations in the United Kingdom.
C-IBC described the appointment as coming at a “pivotal moment” for bilateral economic relations between Canada and India. The newly created position represents an expansion of the council’s senior leadership and reflects its efforts to increase its impact, provide greater value to members and support opportunities for “trade, investment, and business collaboration,” the statement said.
“This is one of the most important and exciting times in our two countries’ economic history. Moments like this demand a different way of engaging, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have someone of Shuchita’s caliber, experience, and character joining our leadership team,” said C-IBC President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Thomas. “This appointment significantly strengthens our capacity and positions the Council to play an increasingly consequential role in this rapidly evolving economic corridor.”
“I am deeply honored to join C-IBC at such a pivotal moment in the Canada-India economic relationship. This is an extraordinary opportunity to build on the Council’s strong foundation and help advance trade, investment, and economic opportunity between our two countries,” Sonalika said. “I look forward to working closely with our Board, members, and partners across Canada and India to help realize the tremendous potential of this relationship.”
According to the council, Sonalika has extensive experience working at the intersection of business, government and international economic policy. Throughout her career, she has supported high-level bilateral engagements and developed partnerships across major sectors and international markets.
Sonalika holds a master’s degree in public policy and management and a bachelor’s degree in general business and management, both from the University of Maryland.
C-IBC Board Chair Craig Brown also expressed confidence in the appointment.
“Few people bring Shuchita’s combination of institutional experience, understanding of India’s business and policy landscape, and global perspective. The Board is confident that her passion, expertise, and leadership make her exactly the right person to help C-IBC operate at the scale this moment demands,” Brown said.
The council highlighted the timing of the appointment as Canada seeks to diversify its trade relationships beyond traditional partners. India, which is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy within the decade, represents a major long-term commercial opportunity, the statement said.
“The appointment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the Council’s capacity and presence in the Canada-India corridor,” the statement added. “With an expanded leadership team and growing presence across both countries, the Council is strengthening its ability to support members, connect businesses with opportunities, and contribute to a deeper and more ambitious Canada-India economic partnership.”
Founded in 1982, C-IBC works to strengthen bilateral economic relations between Canada and India. Through executive dialogue, policy advocacy and market intelligence, the council supports companies pursuing cross-border growth and promotes the long-term economic interests of both countries.
