ITV

Category: People

  • Capgemini ropes in AI powerhouse Shashi Prabha Singh as VP of data and AI

    Capgemini ropes in AI powerhouse Shashi Prabha Singh as VP of data and AI

    MUMBAI: Capgemini is making a serious statement in the AI world, and they’ve just hired the right person to back it up. Shashi Prabha Singh, a digital transformation maestro, has stepped into the role of vice president – data and AI. Effective March 2025, Singh will be the mastermind behind driving AI-powered growth and cutting-edge data strategies for the global tech consultancy.

    If there’s anyone who knows their way around AI, data, and digital transformation, it’s Singh. She has built an enviable career, seamlessly navigating the worlds of machine learning, AI, and digital strategy like a chess grandmaster plotting her next move. With leadership stints at Tietoevry, WNS, and Tata Consultancy Services, she has spearheaded large-scale transformations, managed P&L for businesses exceeding 500+ professionals, and incubated AI Centres of Excellence from scratch.

    In her latest gig at Capgemini, Singh is all set to supercharge AI and data-driven innovation, ensuring that businesses don’t just collect data but actually know what to do with it. She aims to leverage AI and GenAI to create groundbreaking digital solutions, making businesses smarter, faster, and more efficient.

    Beyond her corporate prowess, Singh is an influential mentor at Nasscom GenAI Foundry, where she nurtures emerging AI startups, turning their ambitious ideas into industry-changing realities. Whether it’s guiding AI-driven business strategies or launching next-gen digital products, she brings an unparalleled blend of leadership and innovation.

    With the digital revolution accelerating, Singh’s appointment signals that Capgemini is not just riding the AI wave, they’re determined to lead it.

  • Md Shahbaz Khan joins The Economic Times as director & business strategy

    Md Shahbaz Khan joins The Economic Times as director & business strategy

    MUMBAI: Md Shahbaz Khan has been appointed as the director, business strategy & special initiatives, business verticals at The Economic Times. Expressing gratitude for his journey so far, he acknowledged the mentors, colleagues, and partners who have supported him.

    Excited for this new chapter, Khan looks forward to driving impactful initiatives, fostering innovation, and contributing to meaningful growth.

    With a strong background in media, he has held pivotal roles at CNBC-TV18, Times of India Group, Hindustan Times, and Sap Partner, among others.

  • Om Jha levels up: From Pepsico prodigy to global media maestro

    Om Jha levels up: From Pepsico prodigy to global media maestro

    MUMBAI: Five and a half years ago, Om Jha took his first sip of Pepsico’s high-energy corporate culture—nervous, excited, and ready to shake things up. Now, with a portfolio of impactful marketing, media, and data-driven campaigns under his belt, he is stepping into the future with a brand-new role in the company’s global media & transformation team. From Gurgaon to Plano, Texas, Jha’s journey has been nothing short of fizz-tastic. But what’s next? Let’s pop the cap and find out.

    “I was stepping in to do something I had never done before,” Jha reminisced about his early days at Pepsico. “Thanks to Vishal Kaul for hiring me and introducing me to the world of possibilities, and thanks to George Kovoor and Anshul Khanna for letting me define my own role with every passing year.”

    Jha didn’t just dip his toes into the Pepsico pool—he dived in headfirst. As head of media & partnerships (2019–2022), he spearheaded efforts to connect Pepsico’s legendary brands with consumers using a potent mix of media, data, and technology. He led high-stakes advertising and marketing negotiations, ensuring every penny squeezed out more efficiency and effectiveness.

    By 2022, he stepped up as director – media, data, marketing capabilities & partnerships. Here, he architected a robust first-party data-led marketing infrastructure, setting the stage for cutting-edge digital campaigns and award-winning brand partnerships.

    Fast forward to March 2025, and Jha is now embracing his biggest role yet—director of global media capabilities. This new challenge places him at the intersection of global strategy and transformation, a role tailor-made for someone who thrives on the ever-evolving media landscape.

    But Pepsico is just one stop in Jha’s dynamic career. Before this, he was assistant vice president – customer strategy at Disney Star (2018-2019), where he led the strategy vertical for the northern region, handling TV and digital ad sales revenue across multiple entertainment portfolios. Prior to that, he spent nearly two years as senior director – strategy at GroupM, simplifying media and technology for brands while driving insights-based performance marketing.

    Jha’s journey also took him through the telecom world. At Airtel (2015-2016), he headed business planning & consumer insights for the Delhi circle, overseeing operational strategy, financial planning, and product pricing. Before that, he honed his consulting expertise at KPMG India (2014-2015), managing large-scale business transformation projects.

    His early career included a five-year stint at Idea Cellular Ltd, where he worked as chief of staff in the MD’s office, focusing on corporate strategy and operations. He also gained experience in engineering and manufacturing at Mahindra Group (2005-2007), before transitioning into business roles.

    “A huge thank you to Shyam Venugopal and Abhishek Jadon for this opportunity,” Jha said, his excitement as palpable as the fizz in a freshly opened Pepsi can.

    Corporate careers are a bit like carbonated drinks—always under pressure, occasionally shaken, but ultimately, they’re all about making a splash. And if Jha’s track record is anything to go by, he’s about to pop the lid on something truly groundbreaking.

  • Carson Dalton bids adieu to Coca-Cola, pops the cap on GSK role

    Carson Dalton bids adieu to Coca-Cola, pops the cap on GSK role

    MUMBAI: Carson Dalton is on the move again. After nearly five years of stirring up success at Coca-Cola, he’s now uncapping a fresh opportunity at GSK as executive vice president – communications & government affairs. From fizzy drinks to pharmaceuticals, Dalton’s career shift is as refreshing as an ice-cold cola on a scorching summer day. But what made him trade in the red can for the white lab coat? Let’s dive in.

    At the end of February, Dalton waved goodbye to The Coca-Cola Company, leaving behind an iconic American brand with a truly global footprint. “Coca-Cola is an iconic American company with a set of truly global brands, it is also a profoundly local business as all beverages are made in a country. This means the company has a significant socio-economic multiplier effect in the local communities where it is served,” he reflected.

    Dalton, who was at the heart of Coca-Cola’s communications across India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives, had his hands full juggling multiple stakeholders. “The efforts of my multi-faceted and agile team involve enabling and protecting the interconnected value chain of our brands and bottling partners. We engage with bottling teams, collaborate with local and global functions, consumers, partners, customers, and various external stakeholders.”

    For Dalton, the magic of Coca-Cola wasn’t just in its fizzy formulas but in the bigger picture—how consumer goods mirror economic trajectories. “Since joining the company, I’ve been most excited to focus my efforts at the intersection of business, economics and governance as the growth of consumer goods mirrors the overall economic trajectory of a country,” he said.

    He leaves behind a legacy of strategic storytelling, navigating regulatory landscapes, and, of course, ensuring that every sip of Coke came with a side of strong brand positioning. But he’s not one to stay still for long. He’s already got his next big gig lined up.

    “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as executive vice president – communications & government affairs at GSK!” he announced, barely letting the Coca-Cola bubbles settle.

    Corporate careers, he muses, are a game of ladders—each step bringing new challenges, new drinks (Thums Up, in his case), and a higher vantage point to survey the landscape. “Growth is the blood of a career. It is akin to a step ladder – you climb a step every few years, do a high five, have a celebratory drink (of Thums Up), elevate your network, look at the world around you from the newfound height and then look up the steps above yet to be climbed.”

    And climb he has. The move to GSK puts Dalton at the helm of communications and government affairs for a global pharmaceutical giant. It’s a shift from sugary indulgence to healthcare essentials, but if anyone can navigate the high-pressure world of corporate storytelling, it’s him.

  • Mindteck’s CEO logs out after five years of steering growth

    Mindteck’s CEO logs out after five years of steering growth

    MUMBAI: After five years at the helm, Mindteck’s managing director and CEO, Anand Balakrishnan, is set to bid adieu, with his resignation effective from 31 May 2025. The global engineering and technology solutions company announced that Balakrishnan will continue in his role for the next three months, ensuring a seamless leadership transition.

    Reflecting on his tenure, Balakrishnan described the journey as both “rewarding and challenging,” stating, “With Mindteck well-positioned for continued success, I feel this is the right time for a leadership transition. My decision is based on personal reasons, and I look forward to focusing on these aspects at this stage in my life.”

    Under his leadership, Mindteck saw significant transformation, with sustainable growth and improved liquidity shaping its trajectory. “While we regret to see Anand step down, we respect his decision,” said Mindteck chairman Yusuf Lanewala. “He has played a crucial role in positioning Mindteck for long-term success, and we extend our gratitude for his contributions.”

    The Board has accepted his resignation and has tasked the Nomination and Remuneration Committee with selecting a suitable successor. As Mindteck gears up for its next chapter, all eyes are on who will take the baton to drive the company’s future growth.

  • TCS welcomes finance veteran Sanjay Bhandarkar as independent director

    TCS welcomes finance veteran Sanjay Bhandarkar as independent director

    MUMBAI: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has made a bullish move, roping in finance industry veteran Sanjay V. Bhandarkar as an additional director and independent non-executive director for a five-year term, effective from 4 March 2025, until 3 March 2030. The appointment, recommended by the nomination and remuneration committee, awaits shareholder approval.

    When it comes to finance, investment banking, and corporate strategy, Bhandarkar is no newbie. He’s the man who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s financial advisory landscape. Having held leadership positions at Rothschild India and ICICI, he boasts an impressive track record in M&A, restructuring, and equity capital markets. If there’s a corporate puzzle to solve, chances are, Bhandarkar has already cracked a tougher one.

    Bhandarkar’s expertise isn’t just limited to boardrooms. He has advised the Government of India on landmark projects, including the first-ever e-auctions for 3G and BWA spectrum, and played a critical role in restructuring the infamous Enron and GE-backed Dabhol power project. Simply put, he knows how to navigate the high-stakes financial chessboard.

    Currently, Bhandarkar serves on the boards of Tata Power, HDFC Asset Management, Chemplast Sanmar, and Tata Projects. He also holds key roles in investment committees and advisory boards, lending his strategic mind to South Asia Growth Fund II and III and 1crowd, a seed capital stage investing platform.

    With TCS being a global tech giant, what does an investment banking whiz bring to the table? Strategic foresight, financial acumen, and the ability to navigate complex business environments. The appointment of a seasoned finance professional is no coincidence. It’s a calculated move to ensure the company’s growth trajectory stays as ambitious as ever. Bhandarkar’s addition to the TCS board signals a sharper focus on financial strategy and governance.

  • M S Walia appointed COO of Capital India Finance, bringing 30 years of expertise

    M S Walia appointed COO of Capital India Finance, bringing 30 years of expertise

    MUMBAI: Capital India Finance Ltd has appointed M S Walia as its new COO, leveraging his nearly three decades of experience in the financial services sector.

    Walia, an expert in regional markets, portfolio management, and customer dynamics, is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening the company’s operations. His expertise will be key in driving efficiency, expanding market presence, and refining financial strategies to fuel Capital India Finance’s growth.

    Before this role, Walia had a distinguished career at Sammaan Capital Ltd (formerly Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd) and spent eight years at Standard Chartered Bank, among other key positions in leading financial institutions.

    His academic credentials include executive education at Insead, a certification from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, an MBA in finance from Pune University, and a graduate degree from Punjab University.  

  • Harman welcomes Christian Sobottka as new CEO; Michael Mauser hung his boots after 27 years

    Harman welcomes Christian Sobottka as new CEO; Michael Mauser hung his boots after 27 years

    MUMBAI: A changing of the guard is underway at Harman International, the tech powerhouse behind cutting-edge automotive, consumer, and enterprise innovations. Michael Mauser, the company’s longtime leader, is stepping down as president & CEO on 31 March 2025, making way for Christian Sobottka, who will officially assume the role on 1 April 2025.

    After 27 years at Harman, Mauser has decided to pass the baton, having led the company through industry-defining moments, including Samsung’s acquisition in 2017, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global semiconductor shortages. Under his leadership, Harman hit $11 billion in revenue, achieved record profitability, and amassed a jaw-dropping $45 billion in automotive business backlog.

    “After nearly three decades with Harman and aligned with our diligent succession planning process, I have decided to step away to spend more time with my family and explore new opportunities,” Mauser said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident in Christian’s ability to lead Harman into its next chapter.”

    Stepping up is Sobottka, a seasoned automotive industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. Since taking over as president of Harman’s automotive division in 2021, Sobottka has been at the forefront of major transformations, steering Harman towards a product- and software-focused model. His expertise in advanced in-cabin experiences and strategic automotive partnerships makes him the ideal choice to drive Harman’s next wave of innovation.

    “I am honored to assume the role of president & CEO of Harman,” Sobottka said. “Building on our legacy of innovation and excellence, I look forward to working with our talented teams to drive the next phase of growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners.”

    Harman’s board of directors chairman Young Sohn praised Mauser’s unwavering leadership and vision, stating, “We extend our deepest gratitude to Michael for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to Harman’s success. His strategic vision has positioned the company for continued growth. We are confident that Christian’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to guide Harman into the future.”

    Alongside Sobottka’s appointment, Harman’s lifestyle division president Dave Rogers will join the board of directors, marking another shift in the company’s leadership team.

    With its legacy of cutting-edge innovation, Harman remains committed to revolutionising connected technology across automotive, consumer, and enterprise markets. The transition from Mauser to Sobottka signals a new era of growth, software-driven advancements, and global expansion.

  • Akshay Gurnani steps down as Schbang CEO, gears up for next big leap

    Akshay Gurnani steps down as Schbang CEO, gears up for next big leap

    MUMBAI: For most, Mondays mean emails, meetings, and caffeine-fuelled survival. But for Akshay Gurnani, this Monday was different-it marked the end of a decade-long journey as co-founder & CEO of Schbang and the beginning of a brand-new adventure.

    “Ten years. A whole decade. A long time, yet in the larger picture of life, just a small fraction,” reflects Gurnani. “And yet, these 10 years have been nothing short of transformative.”

    Gurnani co-founded Schbang at just 25 years old, fuelled by the ambition to build something from the ground up. Along with his fellow co-founders, he set out to redefine the marketing landscape and provide cutting-edge solutions to clients. Under his leadership, Schbang scaled to a 1,100+ member team across Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, London, and Amsterdam, servicing over 200 brands globally. His relentless commitment propelled the agency to become one of the most sought-after creative powerhouses in the industry.

    From the boardroom to the brainstorming room, Gurnani’s leadership has been marked by resilience, innovation, and the sheer audacity to push creative boundaries. Schbang executed award-winning campaigns for Pidilite, Perfetti, Godrej Consumer Products, Tata Consumer, L’Oréal Group, Finolex Pipes, Ashok Leyland, Crompton, Castrol, Baskin Robbins, Philips, and more. Beyond building a successful agency, he fostered a community—mentors, teammates, industry peers, and clients who became friends.

    “More than anything, Schbang has been about the people, the culture. The teammates who turned into family. The mentors I looked up to. The clients who became partners (many now good friends) and believed in us. Each one of you has left a mark, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”

    While one chapter closes, another unfolds. Gurnani isn’t slowing down—he’s simply switching lanes. His next phase will focus on business transformation, mentoring startups, investing in game-changing ideas, and empowering young students. He aims to help brands and agencies on a hyper-growth trajectory in India and the UAE, leveraging his expertise in digital marketing, AI, media, and technology.

    “As business landscapes evolve and consumer behaviours shift, client needs are changing rapidly. My focus is on eliminating redundancies and prioritising services that deliver business value,” he shares. “Digital transformation isn’t just about technology—it requires a deep understanding of a client’s business and a partnership-driven approach to drive meaningful change.”

    Having worked with Fortune 500 brands, Gurnani has developed a keen eye for identifying inflection points where inefficiencies arise. His goal is to go beyond vanity metrics, dive deeper into digital transformation, and help brands achieve sharper outcomes powered by the right human resources, media, and technology.

    During his time at Schbang, Gurnani was also recognised with numerous 30 Under 30 awards and named among India’s Top 50 Content Marketing Professionals.

    “It’s not a goodbye, it’s just a shift in gears because if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the last 10 years, it’s that new ideas, new journeys, and new beginnings are always around the corner.”

    Schbang may have started as a bold idea, but its legacy continues. And so does Gurnani’s next great adventure.

  • D’Decor home fabrics appoints Debajit Kundu as vice president

    D’Decor home fabrics appoints Debajit Kundu as vice president

    Mumbai: D’Decor home fabrics has appointed Debajit Kundu as vice president, bringing extensive expertise in textile manufacturing and operational excellence.

    With a strong background in weaving and fabric production, Kundu is expected to drive growth and innovation in the home textiles sector. He previously held many roles at Vardhman Textiles, Indocount Industries, and Hanung Toys & Textiles, where he played a key role in optimising manufacturing processes.

    An accomplished textile engineer, Kundu’s industry experience positions him to enhance D’Decor’s operational efficiency and product quality.

    Before joining D’Decor home fabrics in February 2025, he served as vice president at Vardhman Textiles for over seven years, overseeing operations in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh. Prior to that, he was DGM (weaving) at Indocount Industries Ltd. in Kolhapur for more than five years, where he played a crucial role in optimising weaving processes. He also worked as AGM (weaving) at Hanung Toys & Textiles in Roorkee and gained international experience as general manager (technical) at Jamuna Denims Ltd. in Bangladesh, where he was responsible for the overall technical management of the denim fabric unit.

    With a strong foundation in textile engineering, Kundu’s expertise in weaving and fabric production is expected to drive D’Decor’s growth, operational efficiency, and product innovation in the home textiles sector.