US-India Business Council (USIBC) president Ron Somers is resigning his post after steering the premier business advocacy organization advancing US-India commercial ties for 10 years, to start a strategic consulting practice.
USIBC executive vice president and senior director Diane Farrell will serve as acting president during the search for a replacement, USIBC announced Tuesday.
Comprised of 300 of the top-tier US and Indian companies, USIBC is the largest bilateral trade association in the US.
"With elections underway in India and a new government forming, this is the perfect time for me to do what I have long planned - hang out my shingle," said Somers.
"It's been an incredibly rewarding experience to lead the exceptional USIBC staff, work with an outstanding board, and advance the critical US-India commercial relationship."
"Ron has brought incredible energy, experience, and insight to the US-India Business Council," said MasterCard Worldwide president and CEO and USIBC chair Ajay Banga.
"On behalf of the entire board and staff, we want to thank him for his remarkable efforts and accomplishments."
US Chamber executive vice president David Chavern praised Somers' tenure as USIBC president: "Ron has a strong record of accomplishment and has provided tremendous leadership in his nearly ten years with USIBC. We wish him well in his future endeavours."