Verónica Cheja

Verónica Cheja is one of the most influential figures in the world of strategic communications in Latin America. As co-founder and CEO of Urban Grupo de Comunicación, she has led one of the most recognized independent agencies on the continent for over two decades, working with global clients such as Google, Coca-Cola, and Mercado Libre. Her business vision, commitment to gender equity, and ability to build trust through storytelling have made her a reference both inside and outside the corporate sector. Her leadership not only transformed the way PR is practiced in the region, but also paved the way for a new generation of women leaders in the industry.

Early career and education

Verónica Cheja began her career in communications at the age of 18. By 22, alongside Silvia Maggiani and Gabriela Korovsky, she co-founded Urban Grupo de Comunicación. The agency was launched at a time when the concept of brand PR was virtually unknown in Argentina. Initially, they focused on music publicity for rock bands, which allowed them to develop a unique and creative perspective in the field of public relations.

Her academic background includes studies at Universidad del CEMA and Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, where she deepened her knowledge in communication and business.

Leadership at Urban Grupo de Comunicación

Under Cheja’s leadership, Urban has grown into one of the leading independent communication agencies in Latin America. The firm has worked with a wide range of high-profile clients, including Coca-Cola, Unilever, American Express, Google, Mercado Libre, Adidas, Zurich, AstraZeneca, and Cirque du Soleil.

Urban currently employs 130 people and has offices in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia, with ongoing expansion plans into Spain and Mexico. The agency is known for its strong focus on trust-building through transformational storytelling and its adaptability to the changing demands of the market.

Awards and international recognition

In 2009, Verónica Cheja was the only Argentine selected as a jury member for the PR Lions category at the Cannes Lions Festival — a distinction that reflects her global prestige and influence in the field of public relations.

She has also been recognized as one of Argentina’s “Women to Watch” and was named Best Communicator in Argentina in 2017.

Commitment to gender equity and business development

Cheja is a vocal advocate for gender equity in the business world. At Urban, 100% of the board is composed of women, and 73% of the entire team is female. This commitment is reflected not only in her leadership style but also in the company’s internal policies and culture.

She is also actively involved in organizations such as IDEA and YPO, contributing to the development of business leaders and promoting strategic communication practices.

Professional philosophy and vision

Verónica Cheja believes communication is essential for human progress. Her approach centers on connecting and conversing, building trust through meaningful narratives. This philosophy has shaped her work at Urban and has been fundamental to the agency’s long-standing success.

Verónica Cheja remains a powerful voice in strategic communications, driving innovative initiatives and championing values of trust and gender inclusion across the business landscape.