NEWARK, CA — Neato Robotics, the Silicon Valley company that creates robots to perform household chores, has hired Aparna Aswani as its first director of global communications.

Aswani joins the company, best known for its robot vacuum cleaners, from Bhava Communications, where she served as a VP for the past year. Prior to relocating to the US in 2013, Aswani launched Nelson Bostock's Asian presence during a six-year stint with the UK consultancy.

At Neato, Aswani will be responsible for driving global PR and communication strategy and execution, reporting to VP of marketing, Nancy Nunziati.

"Aparna’s expertise in strategic communications, media relations, product launches, event management, along with her energetic and collaborative style will take our communications and public relations to the next level," said Nunziati.

Founded in 2005, Neato has raised more than $40m in funding since its first product reached the market in 2010. The company's PR agency support includes UK firm Honcho.