BLS International Services Limited has appointed Toomas Hendrik Ilves, former President of Estonia, as Global Strategic Advisor, strengthening its global advisory leadership as the company looks to expand its presence and technology-led government and citizen service capabilities.
The appointment follows the recent addition of former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison as Global Strategic Advisor. Ilves brings experience across diplomacy, government, international institutions and technology policy, along with his work in digital transformation and e-governance during his tenure as President of Estonia from 2006 to 2016.
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Toomas Hendrik Ilves to Support Global Strategic Growth
In his new role, Ilves will provide strategic perspectives to BLS International as the company develops its global presence and engagement with governments and stakeholders.
His background in digital government, cybersecurity and technology-led public services aligns with areas central to BLS International’s operations. The company provides visa, consular and citizen services across more than 100 countries and works with 46 client governments.
Ilves’ experience in digital transformation is expected to add an international public-sector perspective to the company’s strategic initiatives as it continues to develop technology-enabled citizen services.
Former President of Estonia Brings Technology Policy Experience
Ilves served as President of Estonia for two terms between 2006 and 2016. Before and during his public career, he held positions spanning diplomacy, government and international institutions.
During his presidency, Estonia continued the development of its digital government infrastructure and e-governance systems. Ilves has subsequently remained involved in discussions around digital transformation, cybersecurity and technology policy.
His experience in these areas forms an important part of his role with BLS International, particularly as governments globally continue to develop digital platforms for delivering public services.
Focus on Digital Transformation and Citizen Services
BLS International has positioned technology as a core component of its government and citizen services model. The company has more than two decades of experience in visa, consular and citizen services, with operations extending across more than 100 countries.
Ilves brings an understanding of Estonia’s digital transformation experience as well as his perspective on India’s Digital India journey. His appointment comes as BLS International seeks to combine its existing technology capabilities with broader international opportunities.
The company said his strategic insights, together with its experience in delivering government and citizen services at scale, could support innovation, service delivery and international expansion.
Strengthening BLS International’s Global Advisory Board
Ilves’ appointment further expands BLS International’s Global Advisory Board, following the recent appointment of Scott Morrison as Global Strategic Advisor.
The company has been building an advisory structure that includes international leaders with experience across government and public policy. Their roles are intended to provide perspectives as BLS International engages with governments and stakeholders across different markets.
For Ilves, his experience in government and digital public infrastructure brings a particular focus on technology-enabled public services and e-governance.
Shikhar Aggarwal on the Appointment
Commenting on the joining of Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves at BLS International, Mr. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International, said:
“We are entering an important new phase in our growth journey, with a clear ambition to expand our global presence and further strengthen our engagement with governments and stakeholders. We have built a strong team and an accomplished group of advisors who bring valuable experience and diverse perspectives to the organisation. We are delighted to welcome H.E. Toomas Hendrik Ilves as our Global Strategic Advisor, as we continue to build our position as a trusted partner to governments and citizens around the world.”
Ilves on India’s Digital Transformation
Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, Global Strategic Advisor to BLS International and Former President of Estonia, said:
“India’s remarkable digital transformation and its focus on building technology-led, citizen-centric public services have created a model that is attracting global attention. The country’s progress in building digital public infrastructure and enabling more efficient and accessible public services offers valuable lessons for the world. BLS International is a company that reflects this progressive approach and is well positioned to take their service capabilities to a wider global audience. I am pleased to partner with BLS and look forward to supporting its ambition to scale globally and contribute to the evolution of secure, efficient citizen-centric services around the world.”
BLS International Reports FY26 Growth
The appointment comes alongside a period of reported financial growth for BLS International. For FY26, the company reported consolidated revenue of INR 2,998 crore, representing 36.7% year-on-year growth. Consolidated net profit stood at INR 724 crore, an increase of 34.1% year-on-year.
The company attributed the performance to its global operations and technology-led service model as it continues to expand its reach across government and citizen services.
With Ilves joining its advisory leadership, BLS International adds experience in digital government and technology policy to its strategic leadership structure. His role will focus on supporting the company’s international growth ambitions and its work around secure and technology-enabled citizen services.
