ITV

Category: Media and Advertising

  • Ex-Eightfold AI leader RudraPrasad Nanjundappa joins Kapture CX as CCO to lead AI-driven customer success globally

    Ex-Eightfold AI leader RudraPrasad Nanjundappa joins Kapture CX as CCO to lead AI-driven customer success globally

    MUMBAI: Kapture CX has brought on board RudraPrasad Nanjundappa as its new chief customer officer. The move comes at a time when the company is turbocharging its global expansion across 18 countries, riding on a revenue doubling in FY25 and recent $8 million funding led by Cactus Venture Partners and India Alternatives.

    With a career spanning nearly 23 years, RudraPrasad previously served as regional vice president – professional services at Eightfold AI, where he set up the APAC services team and oversaw enterprise product implementations across APAC and EMEA. His experience also includes leadership roles at Linkedin, Infosys, Cognizant, and a stint as co-founder of a health-tech startup.

    In his new role, RudraPrasad will helm customer success initiatives, lead the deployment of Kapture’s Agentic AI product suite, and drive customer-centric strategies aligned to enterprise outcomes across sectors and geographies.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Rudraprasad to the Kapture CX leadership team”, said Kapture CX CEO & co-founder Sheshgiri Kamath. “His extensive experience and visionary approach to customer success align perfectly with our mission to revolutionise customer experience through innovative technology. We are confident that his leadership will further strengthen our customer relationships and drive sustained growth”.

    RudraPrasad added, “Being part of a company which is at the forefront of building an Agentic AI platform to help organisations across the globe redefine and enhance their customer experience is surreal. In my role as the chief customer officer, I look forward to leveraging my diverse experience anchored around customer success to help redefine the experience and value we are delivering to our customers”.

    Kapture CX, which serves over 1,000 enterprise clients, is known for its AI-native CX automation suite. The platform integrates proprietary large language models (LLMs) to power workflows, sentiment analysis, and proactive customer engagement. RudraPrasad’s appointment is expected to further this innovation agenda while sharpening Kapture’s delivery edge.

    “Passionate founders, dynamic team, innovative product suite, tangible results for enterprise clients, expanding business opportunities and challenges of growth stage make this journey incredibly thrilling”, he said.

  • Defender storms India’s streets with Laqshya’s OOH campaign built on grit, gear, and grand visuals

    Defender storms India’s streets with Laqshya’s OOH campaign built on grit, gear, and grand visuals

    MUMBAI: India’s city skylines have just found a new icon to stare at—and it’s not made of glass and steel. Jaguar Land Rover India, in collaboration with Laqshya Media Group, has launched a sweeping out-of-home (OOH) campaign to introduce the new Defender, painting a bold visual narrative across urban India.

    Titled the ‘Defender – Portal Campaign’, the effort unfolded in two visually arresting phases. The first set the scene with snow-capped peaks—featuring the Defender hurtling through frozen terrain with the calm of a seasoned explorer.

    Phase two flipped the scene entirely: desert dunes, golden and blazing, where the SUV charged forward with grit and grandeur.

    The campaign targeted premium high-footfall zones including malls, arterial highways, and airport corridors, capturing the eyeballs of luxury-inclined urban dwellers. Whether at a bustling junction or an upscale district, the Defender made its mark with placements too audacious to ignore.

    But this wasn’t just a car ad—it was cinematic storytelling at scale.

    One visual depicted the SUV bursting from a brutalist concrete portal into alpine wilderness, alive with icy momentum. Another creative threw it into the desert, every grain of sand kicked up with purpose. A standout frame combined a close-up of goggled eyes with the gleam of the Defender’s headlamp—blurring the line between human and machine.

    “With the new Defender, we didn’t just want to create another OOH campaign—we wanted to engineer a spectacle that mirrors the vehicle’s unstoppable spirit. From snow-clad peaks to sun-baked sands, we designed every touchpoint to make people feel the thrill of adventure and the power of possibility. This campaign isn’t just about seeing the Defender; it’s about experiencing what it means to be truly unmissable”, said Laqshya Media Group CSO Yuvrraj Agarwaal.

    The Defender’s OOH rollout may have traversed just a few cities, but its ambition roared across geographies. By combining tight location targeting with layered visual storytelling, Laqshya and JLR have turned each site into a portal of power and performance—reminding viewers that great adventures begin on the streets they walk.

     

  • Kumar P V steps into VKC’s top sales role as chief sales officer to lace up expansion across channels

    Kumar P V steps into VKC’s top sales role as chief sales officer to lace up expansion across channels

    MUMBAI: In a move aimed at tightening its grip on the Indian footwear market, VKC has appointed Kumar P V as chief sales officer, tasking him with leading the company’s Channel One business operations. The portfolio spans General Trade, B2B online platforms, and institutional channels.

    With over two and a half decades of sales and marketing experience, Kumar takes the reins at a time when VKC is actively pushing for deeper market penetration and sustained top-line growth. His mandate includes expanding the brand’s footprint across untapped regions, sharpening customer engagement strategies, and boosting productivity across VKC’s distribution channels.

    Kumar previously held leadership positions at some of India’s most recognised names. His career features roles at Cavinkare, Cholayil (Medimix), P&G, Henkel, and Reckitt Benckiser. Most recently, he served as chief sales officer at a fast-growing startup, where he navigated volatile business terrain with a strong hand on sales targets and operational metrics.

    “With Kumar’s appointment, we are doubling down on our growth ambitions for Channel One”, said a VKC spokesperson. “His proven leadership across diverse industries is perfectly suited to scale our operations and deepen customer trust”.

    Kumar’s background also includes extensive work in trade marketing, distribution strategy, and category development across FMCG, personal care, food, snacks, beverages, and OTC pharma.

    As VKC eyes a stronger hold on India’s competitive footwear market, Kumar’s entry signals a fresh drive to outpace rivals on shelf space, sales volume, and supply-chain finesse.

  • Scripted for success Alisha Sharma joins The Script Room as ECD

    Scripted for success Alisha Sharma joins The Script Room as ECD

    With a decade-long résumé that reads like a highlight reel of Indian advertising, Alisha has helped build brands like Spotify, Pepsico’s Lays and Doritos, Amazon, Asian Paints and MP Tourism. From crafting Spotify’s signature Indian tone of voice to rolling out mega-hits like “There’s a Playlist for That” and “Life Kate Mazze Se”, Alisha’s storytelling is anything but on shuffle. Her work has earned nods at the Cannes Lions, One Show, Spikes Asia, Clio Awards and Effies India and she’s judged at the Young Director Awards at Cannes, too.

    In her own words, “You know you’re in the right room when conversations spark ideas and story stays at the centre. I wasn’t just looking for a change, I was waiting for the right place. Now I’m here, excited to shape this room into a house full of stories.”

    That “room” was founded by Rajesh Ramaswamy and Ayyappan Raj, who’ve built a reputation for carving out space in the industry for unapologetically narrative-driven work. Speaking on the hire, Rajesh said, “We really love the way she thinks, it’s a joy to watch her work.” Ayyappan added, “She joins at the perfect time. We’re six years in, and with her, the next phase will be even more exciting. She’s brilliant and everyone already loves her.”

    As The Script Room continues to stake its claim as the go-to shop for fresh, compelling storytelling, Alisha’s arrival feels like the beginning of a new genre part drama, part blockbuster, and all heart. Keep your popcorn ready.

  • Sethi in Stone as SPJ True Realtyy Builds Sales Game Plan

    Sethi in Stone as SPJ True Realtyy Builds Sales Game Plan

    MUMBAI: When it comes to selling spaces, SPJ True Realtyy is laying down a strong foundation starting with its leadership. In a move set to turbocharge its growth ambitions, the Gurugram-based developer has roped in real estate heavyweight Jashanpreet Singh Sethi as senior vice president & head of sales.

    With over 13 years of experience chiselled across India’s leading realty players DLF, Mahindra Lifespaces, M3M, and Omaxe Sethi’s name is as familiar in boardrooms as it is on sales dashboards. His track record? A portfolio of market-expanding strategies and consistently robust revenue deliveries.

    At SPJ True Realtyy, he’ll be entrusted with scaling high-performance teams, driving aggressive revenue targets, and sharpening the brand’s residential and commercial sales playbook. “I’m here to build for the long game, with customer-centricity at the heart of every move,” said Sethi. “The aim is to power SPJ’s growth through data-led strategy, sustainable relationships, and a future-first mindset.”

    Welcoming him on board SPJ True Realtyy executive president Praveen Raina said, “Sethi’s entry brings strategic sharpness and agility to our sales engine. With his sectoral know-how and customer engagement finesse, we expect to deepen our market presence while staying true to our value-driven development ethos.”

    Sethi’s appointment comes at a pivotal juncture for SPJ True Realtyy as it doubles down on expanding across both residential and commercial verticals. With a leadership mindset anchored in performance, the brand is clearly setting the tone for a more ambitious, strategically sound phase brick by brilliant brick.

  • Kavita Sanghvi takes charge as Kotak Education Foundation’s director of education

    Kavita Sanghvi takes charge as Kotak Education Foundation’s director of education

    MUMBAI: In a move that blends academic grit with purpose-led change, Kotak Education Foundation (KEF) has appointed noted educator and policy influencer Kavita Sanghvi as its director of education. The announcement positions Sanghvi at the helm of KEF’s strategic education interventions across under-resourced communities in India.

    A National Awardee in 2022 and Derozio Award recipient in 2024, Sanghvi brings more than two decades of experience in progressive pedagogy and institutional leadership. Her career includes a stint as principal of SVKM’s CNM School, Mumbai, and recognition as a Scientix ambassador, Global Teacher Accreditation holder from the British Council, and mentor under the Ministry of Education’s National Mission for Mentoring.

    In her new role, Sanghvi will lead curriculum reforms, teacher training modules, and education innovations for KEF’s community engagement programmes. Her global initiatives such as the ‘Build Your STEM Competency’ course and the Global Outlook Steam framework have already attracted international traction.

    Kotak Education Foundation CEO Ganesh Raja expressed his confidence in her appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Kavita Sanghvi to the Kotak Education Foundation family. Her exemplary track record and deep-rooted passion for education will be instrumental in advancing our mission to foster equity and excellence in learning. With her leadership, we aim to accelerate impactful change in the communities we serve and redefine what’s possible in education”.

    An alumna of Ramjas College and K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management Studies & Research, Sanghvi holds postgraduate degrees in Physics, Education, and Philosophy of Education, and also earned a Certificate in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University.

    On her appointment, Sanghvi said, “I am deeply honoured to join Kotak Education Foundation, whose mission aligns with my lifelong vision of making education equitable, empowering, and future-ready. I look forward to working with passionate educators and leaders to create transformative learning opportunities for every child”.

    Her arrival is expected to boost Kef’s focus on STEM literacy, teacher capacity building, and grassroots education innovation. With a portfolio that combines global recognition and local impact, Sanghvi enters KEF at a pivotal time when India’s education system is navigating rapid transformation.

     

  • Stride with pride as FGII marches ahead for inclusion and impact

    Stride with pride as FGII marches ahead for inclusion and impact

    MUMBAI: There was colour, there was conviction, and there was community spirit all marching in rhythm at Bandra Fort on 1st June as Future Generali India Insurance Company Limited (FGII) kicked off Pride Month with a purpose-driven stride. Its landmark ‘Walk with Pride’ initiative wasn’t just a three-kilometre stroll under Mumbai’s monsoon-blushed skies, it was a call to walk the talk on equality.

    Led by FGII’s managing director and CEO Anup Rau, the walk saw over 500 participants from LGBTQIA+ individuals and corporate allies to employees and public figures come together in a visible, vocal display of solidarity. For every step taken, FGII pledged support to The Humsafar Trust, bolstering healthcare services for the queer community.

    The event wasn’t just symbolic; it was catalytic. “Inclusion is not just a corporate agenda, it’s a human imperative,” said FGII chief marketing for customer and impact officer Ruchika Varma. “Our walk is an expression of our daily commitment to diversity, not just a June moment.”

    Adding stardust to the spirited march was actor and philanthropist Mandira Bedi. “India has come a long way post Article 377, but true change lies in access to jobs, to care, to dignity,” she said, lauding FGII for setting the bar on corporate allyship.

    Human rights activist and performer Sushant Divgikar echoed the mood, “Today, we’re not walking alone. We’re being seen, celebrated, and supported.”

    The vibe? “Refreshing and uplifting,” said veteran transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant. “It’s not just a walk, it’s an embrace.”

    For FGII, which has long championed mental wellness, workplace equity, and DEI leadership, the ‘Walk with Pride’ adds real miles to its mission. Because when inclusion gets a route map and purpose gets a pulse, every step counts.
     

  • Shantanu Saran joins Prudent Insurance as CBO to sharpen growth and client relationships

    Shantanu Saran joins Prudent Insurance as CBO to sharpen growth and client relationships

    MUMBAI: Prudent Insurance Brokers has roped in Shantanu Saran as its new chief business officer (CBO), marking a strategic move aimed at boosting growth and deepening client engagement in a rapidly evolving insurance landscape.

    A seasoned insurance professional with over two decades of experience, Saran steps into the new role with an ambitious mandate: scale the firm’s footprint, drive innovation in service offerings, and strengthen stakeholder relationships. Prior to this, he spent 17 years at Marsh India Insurance Brokers, where he most recently served as MD – sales & claims. Earlier in his career, he was with ICICI Lombard for over four years as area head – corporate solutions group.

    In his new role at Prudent, Saran will lead business development initiatives and identify new growth opportunities, while aligning operations with market demands and risk management trends. His appointment aligns with Prudent’s aggressive expansion blueprint and its commitment to delivering comprehensive, client-centric insurance solutions.

    “Shantanu’s appointment marks an important step in the company’s growth journey. His track record in building stakeholder relationships, managing P&Ls, and innovating strategic growth opportunities aligns well with our focus on delivering value and trust”, said Prudent Insurance Brokers JMD Pavanjit Singh Dhingra.

    Saran holds an economics degree from Delhi University’s Ramjas College and a business administration degree from K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management Studies & Research. His leadership ethos has consistently revolved around delivering measurable outcomes while adapting to changing industry expectations.

    “I am honoured to be part of Prudent Insurance Brokers at a time when the industry is evolving rapidly, and client expectations are continuously rising”, said Saran. “Prudent’s strong foundation, client-centric culture, and clear strategic direction make it ideal to build meaningful and long-term value”.

    The company views this leadership addition as a pivotal move in reinforcing its industry positioning and enhancing its value proposition.

  • Rattan Lal named global ambassador of regenagri to boost regenerative farming awareness

    Rattan Lal named global ambassador of regenagri to boost regenerative farming awareness

    MUMBAI: If soil had a spokesperson, it just found the best one. Rattan Lal, the globally celebrated soil scientist and advocate of sustainable agriculture, has been appointed the global ambassador of regenagri, a leading international standard for regenerative agriculture.

    The announcement was made on June 2, 2025, and signals a high-profile push to mainstream regenerative practices worldwide. Lal, a distinguished university professor of Soil Science and director of the Rattan Lal Center for Carbon Management and Sequestration at The Ohio State University, will now amplify regenagri’s message across geographies, guiding its global expansion and standardisation efforts.

    As the global ambassador, Lal will promote the ecological and economic benefits of regenerative farming—emphasising soil health, biodiversity, climate resilience, and community livelihoods. “Regenagri stands for innovative farming systems, which transform agroecosystems into a part of the solution to restore degraded soils, mitigate climate change, strengthen biodiversity, improve the environment and advance Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations while producing safe, healthy, accessible and nutritious food for all”, Lal said.

    His appointment comes at a critical time as nations struggle with deteriorating farmland, shrinking biodiversity, and climate disruption. Regenagri, which provides standards and certification for regenerative agriculture, has found in Lal not just a figurehead but a hands-on contributor to both advocacy and technical advancement. He will also participate in the development of regenagri’s evolving standards framework.

    A decorated scholar and one of the world’s most awarded soil scientists, Lal has received the World Food Prize (2020), Japan Prize (2019), Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity (2024), World Agriculture Prize (2018), M.S. Swaminathan Award (2009), and the Borlaug Award (2005). He previously served as President of both the International Union of Soil Sciences and the Soil Science Society of America.

    Regenagri CEO Franco Costantini noted, “We’re thrilled to have Professor Rattan Lal join us as regenagri’s global ambassador. At a time when restoring soil health on a global scale is more pressing than ever, Prof Lal’s wealth of scientific knowledge will be key to further drive the adoption of regenerative agriculture through regenagri’s robust standards”.

    With Lal at the helm of its advocacy efforts, regenagri aims to deepen its scientific credentials and broaden its impact in the global transition to sustainable, soil-first farming.