ITV

Category: People

  • Manas Lahiri back at Havas India as chief growth officer

    Manas Lahiri back at Havas India as chief growth officer

    MUMBAI: After years of charting remarkable successes across the advertising world, Manas Lahiri returns to where it all began—Havas India.

    In a move that echoes both nostalgia and forward momentum, Lahiri steps back into the fold as chief growth officer, poised to reignite the spark of innovation and propel the network to greater heights.

    A seasoned leader with a knack for transformative growth, Lahiri’s homecoming marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of India’s fastest-growing communications networks.

    Lahiri’s appointment marks his return to Havas India, where he previously served in multiple roles, including MD of Havas Creative India (formerly Havas Worldwide India), between 2018 and 2023. In his new role, Lahiri will collaborate closely with the executive leadership team and report to Havas India, SEA, and north Asia group CEO, Rana Barua.

    Barua welcomed Lahiri’s return, emphasising the significance of his role in the network’s growth trajectory, “Manas’ return to Havas India comes at a crucial time as we continue our strong momentum as a proven integrated and future-facing network. With Havas India’s phenomenal transformation over the past few years, we needed a proven leader to scale our growth ambitions further. Manas’ strategic acumen, extensive industry experience, and deep understanding of our network’s values make him the ideal choice to take on this role.”

    Prior to rejoining Havas India, Lahiri held the position of executive growth partner at VML India, where he played a pivotal role in expanding the agency’s presence and securing key accounts. His career spans over two decades across advertising, brand marketing, and business leadership, including roles at Ogilvy, McCann, and Contract India. Lahiri has worked with marquee brands such as Samsung, Amazon, Coca-Cola, and Reckitt, providing him with a holistic perspective on brand strategy and growth.

    Sharing his enthusiasm, Lahiri said, “I am thrilled to rejoin Havas India at such an exciting juncture. Havas has always been close to my heart, and the network’s journey of transformation into a consolidated, client-centric ecosystem is truly inspiring. I look forward to contributing to this next phase of growth by driving meaningful partnerships, fostering innovation, and building on the strong foundation created by Rana and the team.”

    An MBA graduate from Bangalore University, Lahiri began his career on the client side, working with brands like Motorola and Samsung in sales and marketing before transitioning to advertising. During his previous tenure at Havas Creative India, Lahiri played a critical role in reshaping the agency, driving business wins, and strengthening client relationships. His expertise lies in fostering growth strategies, building high-performing teams, and delivering integrated solutions that yield tangible results.

    This appointment underscores Havas India’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and fostering innovation across its integrated network.

  • Hinduja Group appoints Amit Chincholikar as group president – HR

    Hinduja Group appoints Amit Chincholikar as group president – HR

    MUMBAI: The Hinduja Group has announced the appointment of Amit Chincholikar as its group president – human resources, effective 2 January 2025. He succeeds Amanppreet Singh Bhatia, who successfully led the HR function for five years before moving on.

    With over three decades of experience in human resources, Chincholikar is set to lead the Hinduja Group’s HR strategy, leadership development, and transformation initiatives. His illustrious career spans diverse industries and geographies, including India, the United States, and Singapore.

    In addition to his HR acumen, Chincholikar has successfully led functions such as sustainability, environmental, social, and governance (ESG), corporate communications, and business excellence in previous roles.

    Before joining the Hinduja Group, Chincholikar served as the global chief human resources officer at Yokohama Off-Highway Tires (OHT). His career highlights include significant contributions at Tata Consumer Products, Tata Sons Limited, Aditya Birla Group (ABG), and Mercer Human Resource Consulting.

    Chincholikar’s ability to design and execute transformative HR practices has positioned him as a sought-after leader in the field.

    Amit Chincholikar holds a Master’s degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management and a Bachelor’s degree in science, specialising in statistics and operations research, from Bombay University.

    The Hinduja Group expressed confidence in Chincholikar’s ability to drive its HR vision forward. His leadership is expected to strengthen the group’s focus on employee engagement, sustainability, and business excellence, aligning with its mission to foster growth and innovation across its global operations.

  • Private equity firm Kedaara Capital announces two elevations

    Private equity firm Kedaara Capital announces two elevations

    MUMBAI: 14 year old private equity firm founded by  Manish Kejriwal, Sunish Sharma and Nishant Sharma, Kedaara Capital, announced two promotions just as 2024 was ending.

    First, Anant Gupta.  A  managing director at the firm, he has been elevated to the position of partner. Anant has been with Kedaara Capital for the past 12 years and was a board member or observer of many of the companies it had invested in.

    Among them: LensKart.com, Dairy Day, Vishal Megamart, Purplle.com, Vedant Fashions, Manjushree Technopack, Owndays Co.

    The firm said that he has been instrumental in driving investments, value creation and fostering long-term growth and successful exits.

    Next the PE firm announced the advancement of managing director Rishiraj Khajanchi  as partner &  chief operating officer.  Rishiraj has been with Kedaara for a decade plus and the firm said that “he has been a cornerstone of Kedaara’s fund operations, investor relations and has actively supported the investment team in complex situations.”

  • From codes to scents: BSC appoints Rohit Taneja as category lead for fragrances

    From codes to scents: BSC appoints Rohit Taneja as category lead for fragrances

    MUMBAI: In a world brimming with transformative journeys, Rohit Taneja’s story stands out as a masterclass in reinvention. Once immersed in the world of software engineering, Taneja has pivoted his career to become a seasoned product leader.

    Now, as Bombay Shaving Company’s newly appointed category lead for fragrances, he embarks on an ambitious mission to shape the company’s foray into the captivating world of scents.

    Armed with over a decade of expertise in marketing and brand management, Taneja is poised to craft a fragrant legacy that redefines the company’s expansion strategy.

    Taneja’s career began as a software engineer at Infosys. He then transitioned into marketing with DDB Mudra Group, leading brand perception studies for major clients. His tenure at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company as a sales manager saw him managing sales across Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. In 2019, Taneja joined Bombay Shaving Company, serving as associate director of consumer insights & marketing. In this role, he focused on understanding Indian grooming and beauty preferences, translating data into actionable insights, and enhancing customer loyalty.

    Taneja holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Communications Management from MICA, where he was among the top students in Account Planning. He also earned a Bachelor of Technology in Electronics & Communication from Uttar Pradesh Technical University.

    In his new position, Taneja will lead the development and marketing of Bombay Shaving Company’s fragrance line, aiming to strengthen the brand’s presence in the men’s grooming market.

    Bombay Shaving Company continues to innovate in the grooming industry, offering a range of products designed to enhance the grooming experience for men across India.

  • Haldiram Foods appoints Nitesh G as VP of sales

    Haldiram Foods appoints Nitesh G as VP of sales

    MUMBAI: After decades of driving sales across the FMCG sector, a seasoned veteran is embarking on a new chapter.

    Nitesh G, a stalwart in the fast-moving consumer goods industry and former chief business officer, has taken on the mantle of vice president of sales at Haldiram Foods International Ltd. Known for his strategic acumen and unmatched expertise, Nitesh’s appointment in December 2024 signals a bold move by the iconic Indian brand to further solidify its leadership in the competitive food market.

    Nitesh announced his new role on LinkedIn, stating, “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Vice President of Sales at Haldiram Foods International Ltd.”

    With over two decades in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, Nitesh brings a wealth of experience to Haldiram’s. Prior to this appointment, he served as CBO at Mrs. Bectors Food Specialities Ltd, overseeing brands such as Cremica and English Oven.

    Nitesh’s career includes significant roles at Cream Bell Ice Cream, Britannia Industries Limited, and Vodafone, where he honed his expertise in sales and business development.

    In his new position, Nitesh will spearhead Haldiram’s sales strategies, aiming to expand market reach and strengthen the brand’s presence in the competitive snack-food industry.

  • Pinterest names Soniya Monga from TikTok as VP of global agency sales

    Pinterest names Soniya Monga from TikTok as VP of global agency sales

    MUMBAI: Whether you’re sketching the blueprint of your dream tattoo, curating the perfect product showcase for your e-commerce venture, or piecing together the wedding of a lifetime, Pinterest has become the visual sanctuary where ideas come to life.

    It’s where inspiration takes flight, a platform transforming everyday moments into extraordinary visions.

    And now, leading this global powerhouse into a new chapter of creativity and collaboration, Pinterest has appointed Soniya Monga as its vice president of global agency sales. With her at the helm, Pinterest’s connection to the world’s most creative minds promises to grow even stronger, blending innovation, strategy, and boundless inspiration into a canvas that’s truly global.

    Monga brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at leading technology companies. She previously served as head of US agency partnerships at TikTok, where she managed relationships with major agency holding companies and developed go-to-market strategies for top agency groups in the United States.

    Before her time at TikTok, Monga held leadership positions at Snap Inc., LinkedIn, and Microsoft. At Snap Inc., she led global agency partnerships, empowering agencies and brands to leverage the platform’s advertising opportunities. Her tenure at LinkedIn began in 2010 as one of the earliest employees of LinkedIn Canada, where she contributed to building the company’s advertising business. She later relocated to Hong Kong to manage strategic brand relationships across north Asia, including Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and China.

    Monga holds a bachelor of arts in international economics from McGill University. She has been recognised for her contributions to the industry, including being named to Marketing Magazine’s Top 30 Under 30 in 2013. Additionally, she has served on the board of New York Women in Communications, an organisation dedicated to empowering women in the communications field.

    Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Monga stated, “Pinterest is a platform I’ve long admired for its vision and its unique position as a visual search and discovery tool. I’m excited to help grow its role as a positive space for consumers and brands alike.”

    Pinterest’s chief revenue officer, Bill Watkins commented on the appointment, stating, “Soniya has a stellar record of building agency business from the ground up, combining strategic vision, product expertise, and operational excellence. We’re thrilled to welcome her leadership as we continue to strengthen our agency business.”

    Monga’s appointment comes as Pinterest continues to expand its advertising offerings and strengthen its position as a visual discovery platform. Her extensive experience in building and managing agency partnerships is expected to play a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth in the advertising sector.

  • Deepali Jain gets expanded insights head role at Marico

    Deepali Jain gets expanded insights head role at Marico

    MUMBAI: The fragrance of promotion and greater responsibility on most occasion smells good. As it has in the case of Deepali Jain who has been promoted and seen an expansion  in her role  to partner – head consumer technical insights + perfumery + design (India + international businesses) at Marico.

    A hard core-research oriented professional, Deepali, has progressed in a sustained manner over the 10 years and eight months she has been at the firm. Beginning as a consumer insights manager – innovation and technology she was promoted to principal manger – consumer science after a period of nearly five years. Another four years of consistency saw her being promoted to head consumer insights for hair care, personal care  and male grooming – a position from which she got another promotion.

    Before joining Marico Deepali spent three and a half years as group project director at TNS Global and nearly seven years at Nielsen beginning as a research executive and rising to consumer insights manager working on some of the top FMCG brands.

    “A big thank you to my incredible insights, perfumery, and design team, members at R&D and across geographies for their invaluable support. Looking forward to work for together to drive Marico’s success. Here’s to many more exciting milestones and achievements,!” said Deepali while announcing her expanded role at the Harsh Mariwala-founded company. 

  • Palicha-Vohra’s Zepto elevates Shashank Shekhar Sharma as CXO of Zepto Café

    Palicha-Vohra’s Zepto elevates Shashank Shekhar Sharma as CXO of Zepto Café

    MUMBAI: At just 22, Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra are racing past food-tech giants Swiggy and Zomato, proving that speed isn’t just a metric-it’s a revolution. Their Zepto, the lightning-fast disruptor of India’s consumer internet space, where quick bites meet quicker delivery.

    In a bold move to elevate its café division, Zepto has elevated Shashank Shekhar Sharma as its new chief experience Officer (CXO). With a mandate as sharp as its delivery timelines, Shashank steps into the driver’s seat to steer Zepto Café toward dominating the hyper-competitive food-tech arena.

    Zepto’s co-founder & CEO, Palicha commended Shashank’s exceptional contributions, “Shashank is a top-tier operator. I have had the personal privilege of learning from his combination of detail-oriented execution, strategic clarity, and most importantly, unrelenting obsession with the customer. Zepto Café has been built ground up by him, and I believe he has it in him to build one of the largest food QSR businesses in India.”

    Since Zepto Café’s inception, Shashank has been instrumental in shaping its journey. Reflecting on his promotion, he stated, “I am thrilled to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal time for Zepto Café. The online café model represents a paradigm shift in how urban India enjoys food and beverages, combining convenience, speed, and quality. As we introduce new menu items to the selection, we will remain meticulous in curating assortments that meet our high standards of quality consistency and taste. I look forward to working with our talented teams, sellers, and partners to build on this success and continue delighting users with exceptional experiences.”

    Shashank’s rich background in food tech, retail, and QSR spans nearly two decades. His proven track record in driving business transformation and scaling operations perfectly aligns with Zepto Café’s ambitious growth trajectory.

    Under his leadership, Zepto Café is set to strengthen its footprint and redefine urban India’s food and beverage experiences.

  • Former Nestlé leader Gaurav Kwatra joins iD Fresh Food as CMO

    Former Nestlé leader Gaurav Kwatra joins iD Fresh Food as CMO

    MUMBAI: After a remarkable 12-year journey of crafting impactful campaigns and shaping industry narratives, marketing veteran Gaurav Kwatra has stepped into a new leadership chapter. Kwatra has been appointed chief marketing officer (CMO) at iD Fresh Food, a leader in fresh and natural food products. Tasked with elevating the brand’s market presence, Kwatra will drive strategic marketing initiatives, fuel customer engagement, and spearhead the company’s ambitious market expansion plans.

    Bringing over two decades of leadership experience in FMCG, Kwatra has a proven track record in brand strategy, product innovation, and market growth. Prior to joining iD Fresh, he held senior positions at Nestlé India, including business head and marketing manager – beverages, where he played a pivotal role in launching key products, accelerating innovation, and driving sustained business growth.

    Kwatra began his career at Britannia Industries as an area sales manager and quickly climbed the ranks to become group product manager. During this period, he honed skills in market segmentation, product marketing, team leadership, and strategic brand development, laying the foundation for his success in the FMCG sector.

    At iD Fresh, Kwatra’s focus will be on leveraging data-driven strategies, strengthening iD’s position in existing markets, and driving customer-centric innovations to accelerate the company’s expansion. His appointment reflects iD Fresh’s commitment to scaling operations while continuing to deliver fresh, high-quality, and preservative-free food solutions to households globally.

  • Sharon Lydia Johnson joins Rippling as business recruiter

    Sharon Lydia Johnson joins Rippling as business recruiter

    MUMBAI: In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate leadership, Sharon Lydia Johnson is stepping into a new role as business recruiter at Rippling, marking a significant career transition. Known for her impactful tenure as lead, people at WeWork India, Johnson’s move reflects her forward-looking approach to talent acquisition and organisational growth.

    Her journey resonates with John F. Kennedy’s timeless words: “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” With Rippling’s reputation as a dynamic HR tech platform, this shift not only aligns with her proven expertise but also signals exciting developments in the sphere of talent strategy and recruitment innovation.

    Reflecting on her professional journey, Johnson expressed gratitude for her enriching experience at WeWork India, where she worked under the mentorship of Priti Shetty and Prasetha Pillai. “The growth, learning, and trust I experienced during my time at WeWork have been invaluable,” she said, acknowledging the leaders who played a pivotal role in shaping her professional path.

    Now stepping into her role at Rippling, Johnson shared her excitement to work under the leadership of Saaquib Dawoodani. “I look forward to contributing to Rippling’s mission and playing a part in its continued growth. This opportunity marks an exciting new chapter, and I can’t wait to collaborate with my new team to create a meaningful impact.”

    Her transition underscores the power of professional growth and mentorship, as she moves from a thriving position to a new opportunity filled with promise and purpose.