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Category: People

  • Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre welcomes Shrutika Puri as HR director

    Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre welcomes Shrutika Puri as HR director

    Mumbai: Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre has announced the appointment of Shrutika Puri as its new director of human resources. With over 14 years of experience in the hospitality industry and a tenure at Hilton since 2011, Puri brings extensive expertise in talent management, employee relations, and HR strategy.

    In her new role, she will lead all HR initiatives at the property, focusing on enhancing employee engagement, reducing staff turnover, and aligning HR strategies with business objectives to drive service excellence.

    Puri has held key positions within the Hilton portfolio, most recently serving as human resources manager at Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi, Saket. Previously, she spent over six years as human resources and training manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Agra, where she spearheaded HR transformations and introduced innovative employee development practices.

    We are delighted to welcome Puri to Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre said, general manager, Harkaran Singh, “Her extensive experience and proven leadership in strategic HR initiatives make her the perfect choice to lead our HR team. We are confident she will further strengthen our position as an employer of choice.”

    Situated in Gurugram’s dynamic business district, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre is renowned for its modern luxury and exceptional hospitality, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

    Puri expressed, “I am truly honoured to step into this role and build on Hilton’s legacy of fostering team member engagement, learning, and inclusivity, I look forward to cultivating a positive work environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.”

    Under her leadership, Hilton Gurugram Baani City Centre aims to continue its growth trajectory, reinforcing its reputation for excellence in the competitive Delhi NCR hospitality market.

  • Liz Clarke joins Fabric as director of sales & business development

    Liz Clarke joins Fabric as director of sales & business development

    MUMBAI: Fabric, the entertainment industry’s powerhouse for data and operations solutions, has shaken up its sales and business development team by appointing Liz Clarke as director of sales and business development, EMEA. With over two decades of experience in media, entertainment, and post-production, Clarke is stepping in to steer Fabric’s growth strategy across the region, ensuring that media companies cut through the operational chaos and tap into new revenue streams with ease.

    Fabric, fresh off its integration with Xytech, continues to redefine media management by consolidating workflows, from quote-to-invoice to project management and content metadata. In other words, it’s taking the industry’s messy backend and tidying it up into one smart, seamless platform. And Clarke, with her extensive expertise, is stepping in at precisely the right moment to help drive that transformation.

    Before joining Fabric, Clarke served as EVP of strategy and development at Bitmax, where she championed business growth initiatives and streamlined workflows across international teams. Her journey has also included a pivotal role as VP of client operations at Mirriad, working with major broadcasters like Channel 4, Channel 5, RTE.ie, TF1, France Télévisions, Prosiebens, and RTL. Having previously held senior positions at Ascent Media, Deluxe, and Prime Focus Group, Clarke is no stranger to building and executing world-class media strategies.

    Fabric CRO Kira Baca expressed enthusiasm for Clarke’s arrival, “We are thrilled to welcome Liz to Fabric. Her impressive industry expertise, incredible reputation, and proven ability to drive business growth align perfectly with our mission to help media companies scale and succeed. Liz’s leadership will be instrumental in expanding our footprint across EMEA, ensuring that more organisations can leverage Fabric’s solutions to meet their content goals.”

    Fabric’s goal is simple but ambitious: unify media operations, streamline data, and help teams worldwide deliver seamless content experiences. The company’s solutions integrate operations and catalogue management, resource scheduling, data enrichment, and AI-powered workflow insights—effectively eliminating operational bottlenecks that have long plagued media companies.

    According to Clarke, the opportunity to be part of this mission was too compelling to pass up. “Fabric is focused on providing solutions that deliver provable value, from simplifying and streamlining operations to maximising content revenue potential globally. I am excited to join the team and bring my experience in business development and sales, along with my understanding of the M&E industry, to drive growth across the EMEA region. I look forward to working with the teams to unlock new opportunities and enhance operational efficiencies with Fabric’s innovative solutions.”

    With global digital ad spending projected to reach $667.6 billion in 2025, the demand for integrated, AI-driven media solutions has never been greater. The media landscape is shifting, and companies must adapt to stay relevant. Fabric’s integrated approach offers a competitive edge by eliminating inefficiencies, optimising workflows, and giving businesses a crystal-clear view of their content pipelines.

    Fabric’s expansion into EMEA comes at a time when media companies are grappling with increasing operational complexity. As advertisers pour more dollars into programmatic and AI-driven content personalisation, Fabric’s solutions provide the agility needed to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.

    With Clarke leading the charge, expect Fabric to strengthen its presence across Europe, the middle east, and Africa, proving once again that smart, data-driven operations are the future of media management.

  • Narendra Modi logs into AI future at Paris summit with Macron

    Narendra Modi logs into AI future at Paris summit with Macron

    MUMBAI: India’s tech diplomacy got a high-tech twist as prime minister Narendra Modi landed in Paris to co-chair the artificial intelligence (AI) Summit alongside French president Emmanuel Macron. The summit, a hotspot for world leaders, tech moguls, and policy architects, is tackling the biggest brain-busting questions around AI and how to harness its potential while keeping the digital genie from wreaking havoc.

    With AI rapidly reshaping industries from healthcare to defence, Modi’s presence at the summit signals India’s growing role in global tech governance. The discussions are expected to focus on ethical AI development, regulatory frameworks, and ensuring the technology doesn’t widen economic and social gaps. Amid growing concerns over deepfakes, job disruptions, and data privacy, the summit aims to establish a blueprint for responsible AI innovation.

    Beyond the tech talk, Modi and Macron are set to discuss India-France collaborations across aerospace, defence, and energy sectors. With joint ventures already in the works from Rafale jets to nuclear reactors the visit is expected to reinforce the strategic ties between the two nations.

    As AI continues to reshape the world at breakneck speed, the Paris summit is more than just a meeting of minds; it’s a race to ensure that intelligence, artificial or otherwise, serves humanity rather than outpaces it.

  • Sujata Dwibedy & Jose Leon assigned leadership roles at dentsu

    Sujata Dwibedy & Jose Leon assigned leadership roles at dentsu

    MUMBAI: Two arrows have left the quiver of dentsu india. The goal is that the duo will enhance the business at the leading Indian agency and drive it into its next phase of growth. Sujata Dwibedy has been named CEO, dentsu x, while Jose Leon has taken on the role of CEO, retail media business. Both executives will report to dentsu, CEO-media for south Asia, Anita Kotwani.

    Sujata, who brings 26 years’ experience in strategy, planning, research, buying and innovation, will steer dentsu x towards integrated excellence across media, technology and creative services. her appointment is seen as a key move to forge transformative partnerships and deliver outstanding client outcomes.

    Jose, with a strong background in deep tech, commerce and digital consulting – including previous leadership roles at global digital platform companies – will lead the retail media business. his role is expected to enhance dentsu’s retail media offerings by delivering tech-driven, personalised campaigns that combine consultation, implementation and activation at scale.

    dentsu, CEO for south Asia, Harsha Razdan said the new appointments reflect dentsu india’s relentless pursuit of excellence and its commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, positioning the network for further innovation and market leadership.

  • Infectious Advertising appoints Abrar Nakhuda as head of digital

    Infectious Advertising appoints Abrar Nakhuda as head of digital

    MUMBAI: Infectious Advertising is gearing up for a digital shake-up, appointing Abrar Nakhuda as head of digital to spearhead innovation and strategy in an ever-evolving landscape. With a track record of crafting impactful brand narratives and data-driven campaigns, Nakhuda is set to lead the agency’s approach to AI-powered marketing, influencer engagement, and content storytelling.

    Speaking on his new role, Nakhuda shared, “My focus will be on elevating our clients’ digital presence, integrating the latest digital trends, and ensuring synergy between brands and platforms. From AI-driven workflows to influencer marketing and content innovation, we aim to push creative boundaries and set new industry benchmarks.”

    Infectious Advertising co-founders and directors Nisha Singhania and Ramanuj Shastry said, “Abrar’s expertise and energy bring a fresh perspective to our digital division. His vision will help us strengthen our approach and create groundbreaking digital campaigns.”

    Bringing years of experience from Digit 9.0, Every Media Technologies, Culture Machine, and Viral Fission, Nakhuda has led successful digital initiatives for NBA, Star India, Pepsi, and Amazon, helping brands build strong online communities and content IPs that resonate with audiences. His expertise lies in merging data insights with creative storytelling, a formula that has delivered measurable impact across industries.
     

  • Chand Das gets Account Director – digital & TV (south) role at JioStar

    Chand Das gets Account Director – digital & TV (south) role at JioStar

    MUMBAI: Chandan Das has been appointed as Account Director – digital & TV revenue generation – south at JioStar Network. He transitions from Disney Star where he was region head – south, responsible for ad sales of Star Jalsha, Jalsha Movies and Star Kiran channels.

    In his new role at JioStar, Das will lead digital and TV revenue generation, focusing on monetisation of key properties like BigBoss, Star Parivar Awards, and various digital IPs, along with OTT platform and TV channel inventories across markets.

    Das brings over 14 years of experience in business development and project management, having previously managed a Rs 250 crore-plus business portfolio for Star Plus and Disney Kids channels in the southern region. He has also worked with HT Media and Info Edge India in various sales leadership roles.

     

  • Gautam Adani marks son’s wedding with Rs 10,000 crore donation for social causes

    Gautam Adani marks son’s wedding with Rs 10,000 crore donation for social causes

    Billionaire industrialist, Gautam Adani has stayed true to his commitment of hosting a simple and traditional wedding for his son, Jeet Adani. Contrary to speculation about a grand celebration, the wedding was understated, aligning with Gautam’s earlier remarks at the Maha Kumbh Mela last month.

    Marking the occasion with an extraordinary gesture, Adani has donated Rs 10,000 crore towards various social causes. Sources close to him reveal that his philanthropic priorities align with his guiding philosophy: ‘Seva sadhana hai, seva prarthana hai, aur seva hi parmatma hai’ (Service is devotion, service is prayer, and service is the ultimate divinity).

    A significant portion of the donation will be directed towards infrastructure development in healthcare, education, and skill enhancement. The funds are expected to support world-class yet affordable hospitals, medical colleges, K-12 schools, and global skill academies, ensuring access to high-quality education and employment opportunities across all sections of society.

    Jeet, son of billionaire industrialist Gautam, tied the knot with Diva, daughter of diamond trader Jaimin Shah, in an intimate ceremony at the Belvedere Club in Ahmedabad’s Adani Shantigram township. The wedding, held this afternoon, was a private affair attended only by close family and friends. Notably absent were politicians, business leaders, diplomats, film stars, and other high-profile figures.

    In a heartfelt gesture, Gautam referred to his daughter-in-law as his ‘daughter diva’ in a social media post. His emphasis on simplicity was consistent with his earlier remarks at the Maha Kumbh Mela, where he dismissed speculation of a grand affair, stating, “We are like common people. Jeet came here to take Ma Ganga’s blessings. His marriage will happen in a simple and traditional way.”

    Two days before the wedding, Gautam launched Mangal Seva, an initiative to support newly married women with disabilities. Under this programme, 500 women will receive Rs 10 lakh each annually. To mark the launch, Jeet personally met 21 newly married divyang women and their husbands.

    Through his Rs 10,000 crore donation and his commitment to social impact, Gautam has redefined personal celebrations, choosing ‘Seva Over Self’. His approach underscores a shift towards meaningful philanthropy, prioritising societal well-being over lavish displays of wealth. NDTV is majority-owned by the Adani Group, which acquired a 64.71 per cent stake in December 2022 through its subsidiary AMG Media Networks.

  • Shubhodip Pal named CEO of ITW Universe’s integrated marketing division

    Shubhodip Pal named CEO of ITW Universe’s integrated marketing division

    MUMBAI: ITW Universe just made a power move in the marketing world. The company has brought in Shubhodip Pal as the CEO of ITW’s Integrated Marketing Services (ITW IMS) division. With 27 years of experience and a reputation for turning brands into household names, Pal is set to supercharge ITW’s game plan across sports, media, and entertainment.

    Pal isn’t just a marketing pro—he’s a brand magician. He has led Samsung, ABN Amro Bank, Hewlett Packard, Micromax, Balaji Motion Pictures, and Revolt Motors to new heights. From launching Samsung’s legendary sports campaigns to transforming Micromax into a billion-dollar empire (yes, with Hugh Jackman in tow), his career is basically a masterclass in marketing wizardry.

    ITW Universe co-founder Bhairav Shanth welcomed Pal with enthusiasm, “We’re thrilled to welcome Shubhodip Pal to the ITW family. At ITW, we’ve always been at the forefront of innovation, and I have complete confidence that Shubhodip, with his groundbreaking ideas, will drive our vision even further. ITW IMS is a transformative division, and I can’t think of anyone better suited to lead it. Over the course of his career, Shubhodip has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to transform brands and leverage cutting-edge marketing strategies, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our clients.”

    Pal’s portfolio includes some of the biggest marketing campaigns in India:

    .  Samsung Cup – Spearheaded the brand’s cricket initiatives, including India’s tour of Pakistan after 13 years.

    .  Hewlett Packard’s Rebrand – Led HP’s transition from a B2B brand to a lifestyle powerhouse, introducing fashion-inspired laptops and the first digital cricket trophy with BCCI.

    . Micromax Boom – Took the brand from $350 million to $1.3 billion in 3.5 years, launched industry-first campaigns, and brought Hugh Jackman onboard.

    .  Googly Media – As CEO, built a Singapore-based gaming platform from concept to launch, securing major partnerships in less than a year.

    .  Balaji Motion Pictures – Oversaw blockbuster hits like Ek Villain, Udta Punjab, Veere Di Wedding, and Half Girlfriend.

    Pal is stepping into ITW IMS with a crystal-clear goal—giving brands a single-window solution for maximising media, sponsorships, and creative strategies. Sharing his excitement, he said, “I am very excited to be a part of ITW’s growing vision as one of the largest sports and entertainment agencies in the country. ITW has helped brands create a niche in sports and beyond, the need of the hour is a single window solution for brands to leverage which combines media, creative, maximising the Sponsorships which they invest in and actionable strategy across mediums and diverse platforms available today. With ITW working with 39 brands last year during the IPL was landmark on its own showing trust in us delivering solutions and activating rights be it Offline or online. I am looking forward to leading our dynamic team and spearheading our transformative approach across the BU’s in ITW and giving our clients bang for their buck. Customisation solutions for brands, understanding their needs and delivering is key to our success – we will always be part of the Brands CMO’s team for the brands we work with.”

    With Pal at the helm, ITW IMS is gearing up for major brand collaborations, data-driven marketing strategies, and deeper engagement in sports and entertainment sponsorships. The division has already bagged several high-profile mandates, with more announcements on the way.

  • Shantanu Naidu to steer Tata Motors strategy in new leadership role

    Shantanu Naidu to steer Tata Motors strategy in new leadership role

    In a move that has the industry buzzing, Shantanu Naidu, the dynamic entrepreneur and close associate of Ratan Tata, has been appointed as the general manager, head of Strategic Initiatives at Tata Motors as of January 2025.

    In his new role at Tata Motors, Naidu is expected to spearhead strategic initiatives, leveraging his diverse experience in business strategy, engineering, and leadership. His appointment is anticipated to infuse fresh perspectives into Tata Motors’ strategic direction, aligning with the company’s vision for innovation and growth.

    Naidu, 31, is no stranger to innovation. He founded Motopaws in 2015, an NGO dedicated to animal welfare, and later established Goodfellows India in 2021, focusing on providing companionship to senior citizens. His entrepreneurial spirit is further showcased through his authorship with HarperCollins Publishers India and his role as the founder of On Your Sparks, a platform aimed at guiding young entrepreneurs.

    His journey with the Tata Group began in 2014 as a design engineer at Tata Elxsi. Over the years, he ascended to significant positions, including deputy general manager and later general manager in the office of Ratan Tata. His close association with the Tata patriarch led him to pen the memoir “I Came Upon a Lighthouse,” offering insights into their unique mentor-mentee relationship.

  • Gayatri Yadav roped in as group CMO and EVP at Reliance Industries

    Gayatri Yadav roped in as group CMO and EVP at Reliance Industries

    MUMBAI: Veteran marketing leader Gayatri Yadav has joined Reliance Industries Limited as group chief marketing officer (CMO) and EVP, strategic initiatives, chairman’s office. In this role, she will collaborate closely with Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, Isha Ambani, Akash Ambani, and Anant Ambani to drive brand innovation and strengthen consumer engagement.

    Gayatri, who brings over three decades of diverse experience, has held prominent positions across FMCG, media, and investment sectors. Her career includes key roles at Procter & Gamble, General Mills, and Star India, where she spearheaded major marketing strategies. Most recently, she served as CMO at Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia India & SEA), leading its rebranding and digital growth initiatives.

    Reflecting on her journey, Gayatri expressed gratitude for past opportunities and highlighted her excitement to contribute to Reliance’s growth-driven vision, stating: “What is good for India is good for Reliance.”

    Beyond her corporate roles, Gayatri holds board positions at Paani Foundation, United Way Mumbai, and PRS Legislative Research, underscoring her commitment to social impact.