Category: MAM

  • Bumrah bowls over with Ralph Lauren Polo 67 debut

    Bumrah bowls over with Ralph Lauren Polo 67 debut

    MUMBAI: From the pitch to perfume, Jasprit Bumrah is switching gears as Ralph Lauren Fragrances unveils him as the new ambassador for Polo 67 in India. The cricket legend lends his signature dedication and discipline to the campaign, bringing athletic spirit to the iconic scent.

    L’oréal International Distribution Sapmena general manager Charles-Alexandre Boczmak said Bumrah embodies the “timeless yet vibrant and contemporary vision” of Polo 67. The fragrance celebrates those who champion their own self-expression, echoing the fast bowler’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

    Bumrah, known worldwide for redefining fast bowling with precision and poise, said the collaboration resonates with his journey. “Designing your dreams through determination and grit is a message I live by both on and off the field,” he added.

    Crafted by master perfumer Marie Salamagne, Polo 67 EDP blends warm woody notes with fresh, fruity accents including pineapple, cedarwood, and benzoin. Top notes feature pineapple accord, green mandarin, bergamot and cardamom; mid notes include sesame seed, cypress and lavandin; while vetiver, cedarwood and benzoin form the base.

    Polo 67 marks a reinvigoration of the Polo fragrance line, perfectly marrying sporting energy with timeless sophistication, and now, Jasprit Bumrah’s star power.

  • NTT Data boosts Salesforce strength with Exah acquisition in MEA region

    NTT Data boosts Salesforce strength with Exah acquisition in MEA region

    MUMBAI: NTT Data has snapped up Exah, a Salesforce consulting partner and AI implementation specialist, to supercharge its customer engagement game across the Middle East and Africa (MEA).

    The Johannesburg-based acquisition strengthens NTT Data’s in-region Salesforce capabilities, blending its global scale with Exah’s proven local expertise. The result? Smarter, faster and more personalised Salesforce solutions for clients navigating today’s customer-first economy.

    Salesforce is already a cornerstone of NTT Data’s growth strategy, offering unified customer data, streamlined workflows and AI-powered insights. By bringing Exah on board, NTT Data adds an extra layer of technical depth and on-the-ground support.

    NTT Data MEA CEO Alan Turnley-Jones, said the acquisition was about “combining Exah’s expertise with NTT Data’s global capabilities to deliver innovative solutions that drive customer engagement and business growth.”

    For Exah, it’s a chance to plug into a global network while staying true to its roots. “Delivering exceptional customer value through innovation is our founding principle,” said Exah managing director Tiaan le Roux. “Joining NTT Data lets us amplify that mission across Africa and beyond.”

    This move follows NTT Data’s 2023 purchase of MuleSoft consultancy Apisero, further strengthening its integration chops across digital, voice and CRM platforms. With Exah in the fold, NTT Data can now deliver Salesforce expertise end-to-end, from integration to post-implementation support, while also building local skills through its young talent programme.

    For businesses across the MEA region, it means a stronger partner to keep their customer relationships cleaner, faster and smarter, no manual refresh needed.

  • Moe’s Art gets a reel deal as Shantanu Anam joins as creative director

    Moe’s Art gets a reel deal as Shantanu Anam joins as creative director

    MUMBAI: When storytelling meets strategy, the screen just got sharper. Moe’s Art, the creative-first communications consultancy, has appointed Shantanu Anam as its new creative director, signalling a bold push into video-led content across brand films, commercials, and original productions.

    With over a decade of experience spanning OTT content, digital media, theatre, and screenwriting, Anam rose to prominence with the viral web series Baked. He has since worn multiple hats writer, actor, director across platforms like All India Bakchod and Arre. Most recently, he served as content head at the Jio-backed media company NEWJ, where he wrote Hotstar Special’s Pariwar and produced Happy Hour. He also starred as Debu in the critically acclaimed dark comedy Dilli Dark, praised for its razor-sharp social satire.

    A Syracuse University alumnus, Anam is tasked with strengthening Moe’s Art’s video content vertical, while also expanding the consultancy’s footprint as a brand solutions partner. The focus will be on multi-format storytelling digital-first videos, on-ground activations, and original IPs such as Happily Never After and The Anti-Agency Show aimed at building deeper audience engagement and meaningful brand connections.

    Moe’s Art co-founder Vishaal Shah said, “In an increasingly cluttered world where AI often adds to the noise, it has become more important than ever for brands to truly connect with their audiences. Shantanu’s versatility across theatre, digital, and OTT brings a fresh creative edge to what Moe’s Art can offer its clients. With his leadership, we aim to craft storytelling that resonates deeply and sets new benchmarks in branded content and audience engagement.”

    Adding his perspective, Shantanu Anam said, “Storytelling is the heartbeat of meaningful communication. At Moe’s Art, I am excited to build on that belief by pushing creative boundaries to craft original, compelling content. My goal is to create work that builds a genuine connection between brands and their audiences’ stories that audiences embrace, and brands can be proud of.”

    With Anam on board, Moe’s Art is poised to turn up the volume on video-first storytelling, proving that when creativity and strategy collide, even brands get a standing ovation.

  • Dylect puts scammers in the rear-view with new dash cam

    Dylect puts scammers in the rear-view with new dash cam

    MUMBAI: Say cheese, scammers. Dylect is taking Indian roads under watchful eyes with its new Scam Ya Dash Cam campaign, starring Rannvijay Singh. The nationwide push highlights how dash cams can protect honest drivers from on-road cheats and chaotic driving scenarios.

    Launched across social media, the campaign showcases everyday traffic mayhem where lack of evidence leaves drivers vulnerable. Dylect’s smart dash cams, equipped with full HD night vision, Sony Starvis 2 sensors, loop recording, G-sensor, and parking surveillance, promise to flip the power back to the road users.

    Founder Anuj Bhatia said the campaign aligns with Dylect’s mission to bring tech-forward, practical solutions to drivers. “The truth will always be recorded,” he added, emphasising the role of dash cams in preventing scams and disputes.

    Conceptualised by Art-E Mediatech, the campaign captures the tension and fear drivers feel when confronted by road scammers, positioning the dash cam as the unsung hero that empowers motorists with real-time evidence.

    With India’s roads growing busier and unpredictability increasing, Dylect Dash Cams aim to provide reassurance, accountability and peace of mind for every driver.

  • Panasonic merges industry and energy divisions to power growth in India

    Panasonic merges industry and energy divisions to power growth in India

    MUMBAI: When energy meets industry, sparks are bound to fly and Panasonic just flipped the switch. Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND) has strategically merged its Industrial Devices (INDD) and Energy Solutions (ESD) divisions into a single powerhouse: Panasonic Industry & Energy India (PIDEIN). The move promises sleeker operations, sharper customer focus, and a jolt of innovation for the Indian market.

    Helming the new entity is Narayan Kumar, who steps in as chief business officer. Previously the divisional director of INDD, Kumar brings a mix of strategic vision and hands-on B2B experience, reporting directly to PLSIND MD and CEO Tadashi Chiba.

    Commenting on the integration, Chiba said, “By bringing together our Energy and Industry divisions under PIDEIN, we are unlocking new opportunities to innovate and deliver solutions that truly matter. With Narayan’s leadership, we are confident PIDEIN will strengthen our market presence and drive sustainable growth in India.”

    Kumar added, “India is at a critical inflection point as a global manufacturing hub. PIDEIN combines electronic and electromechanical components with energy solutions across Automotive (ICE & EV), Infra ICT, HVAC, and Automation segments. Together, we can help customers build products for a self-sustaining and greener future.”

    Panasonic’s Industrial Devices portfolio in India covers advanced electronic and electromechanical components including passives, sensors, relays, microswitches, BLDC motors, as well as automation products like servo systems, PLCs, HMIs, and sensing solutions. On the energy side, the ESD division supports India’s green push with lithium-ion batteries for EVs, renewable energy storage systems, and energy management solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial clients.

    The consolidation into PIDEIN signals more than just a rebranding, it reflects Panasonic’s drive to streamline operations, foster collaboration, and accelerate innovation. By uniting diverse technologies under one umbrella, the company aims to deliver tailor-made solutions while advancing its global mission of sustainable and customer-centric growth.

    With Narayan Kumar at the helm and a clear roadmap for integrated growth, PIDEIN is set to energise India’s industrial and energy landscape, proving that when the right sparks meet, the future truly lights up.

  • Mouni shines bright as Ivana Jewels’ new face in sparkling TVC debut

    Mouni shines bright as Ivana Jewels’ new face in sparkling TVC debut

    MUMBAI: When it comes to diamonds, the script often writes itself sparkle, shine, forever. But Ivana Jewels has decided to flip the script, quite literally. In its first-ever television commercial, the fast-growing lab-grown diamond brand has roped in actress-entrepreneur Mouni Roy as brand ambassador, asking audiences to “See it. Wear it. Believe it.”

    The ad takes a behind-the-scenes route, with Mouni ditching scripted lines to simply invite viewers to “see for yourself.” The focus is refreshingly unorthodox not on the science of lab-grown diamonds, but on what today’s buyers really crave: design, individuality, and the sheer joy of jewellery that feels personal.

    “Mouni Roy represents the modern woman who values authenticity and individuality, which are also the values at the heart of Ivana Jewels,” said Ivana Jewels co-founder Ayushi Jindal. “Her journey from television to films reflects the confidence and style our brand stands for, making her the right choice as we expand across India.”

    For Mouni, the association feels just as personal. “I’m truly excited to join hands with Ivana Jewels as their brand ambassador,” she said. “What I love about Ivana is how their jewellery is designed to feel personal and real, not just for special occasions but as part of everyday style. This campaign is all about celebrating confidence, authenticity, and the joy of wearing jewellery that truly belongs to you.”

    The Surat-based brand, known for its lab-grown diamond and Polki jewellery, is in expansion mode, aiming to connect with a new generation of buyers who value sustainable luxury as much as individuality. With customisation, personalisation and accessibility at the heart of its offering, Ivana is betting big on the future of diamonds that sparkle with both glamour and conscience.

    By marrying star power with sustainability, Ivana Jewels isn’t just polishing gems, it’s polishing a new way of looking at jewellery.

  • Godrej’s AI washing machine cleans up the detergent residue problem

    Godrej’s AI washing machine cleans up the detergent residue problem

    MUMBAI: Godrej is out to scrub away an invisible laundry menace – leftover detergent. Its latest ad campaign for the brand’s AI-powered front load washing machines takes a bubbly problem and turns it into a cheeky, watchable spin.

    The campaign zeroes in on something most of us don’t notice but often feel: detergent residue clinging stubbornly to freshly washed clothes. Over time, it can dull colours, roughen fabrics and even irritate skin. Enter Godrej’s new AI-powered turbidity sensing technology, which can detect detergent traces in the wash cycle and rinse out up to 50 per cent more of the harsh stuff.

    To get the message across, Godrej has rolled out a series of 20-second films that exaggerate the problem to comic effect. In each film, detergent makes a foamy, surprise appearance playful, over-the-top and impossible to ignore before the smart washing machine swoops in with its fix.

    Godrej Enterprises Group head of marketing- appliances business Swati Rathi, explained. “Detergent residue is a real but often overlooked issue. Our AI-powered turbidity sensing tech ensures smarter washes, gentler fabric care and skin-friendlier laundry.”

    The campaign, conceptualised by Creativeland Asia, leans on humour to drive home the point. “We took an invisible problem and dramatized it until it couldn’t be ignored,” said co-founder & creative vice-chairman Anu Joseph.

    The films are live across digital video platforms and give laundry care, quite literally, a whole new spin.

  • Animeta’s star power turns influence into real business currency

    Animeta’s star power turns influence into real business currency

    MUMBAI: When influence meets intelligence, the result is Animeta Brandstar’s latest winning streak. The tech-data enabled influencer marketing firm has been scripting campaigns that don’t just trend, they translate into measurable brand outcomes.

    Take Uber India’s campaign with cricket stalwarts Gautam Gambhir and Ravichandran Ashwin. Known for their stern on-field personas, the duo were reimagined in playful avatars, highlighting how Uber flips daily commutes from frustrating to delightful. Animeta managed the marquee talents and execution, sparking chatter across social feeds and proving its knack for stitching stars into relatable, mass-consumption narratives.

    And that’s just one play. Since July 2025, Animeta has rolled out 30 influencer campaigns, activating 1000 plus creators across Instagram, Youtube and Snapchat. In the same period, it has partnered with 20 new brands, while also retaining repeat mandates from stalwarts, a testament to its consistency.

    The roster spans global giants like Amazon Fashion, Starbucks, Warner Music and Uber, alongside homegrown champions such as GCPL and Jyothy Labs, whose everyday staples Cinthol, Maxo, Margo, Exo and Pril have been re-energised through creator-driven storytelling.

    Animeta also helmed influencer rollouts for fresh launches: Shotgun, Fratelli’s carbonated wine label; Ninja, GCPL’s pet food brand debuting in Chennai; and Reposenergy, a doorstep fuel delivery entrant making waves in a nascent category.

    At its core is the Animeta Brandstar platform, which powers creator discovery from a verified pool of 85,000 plus profiles, minimises spillovers, and tracks campaigns in real time. Performance isn’t just judged on reach but also advanced metrics shares, saves, click-throughs and trials linking influencer buzz directly to consideration, leads and even sales. The result: a 30 per cent ROI uplift compared to industry benchmarks.

    “Influencer marketing today is no longer just about amplification, it’s about authenticity, storytelling, and business outcomes. At Animeta, we take pride in servicing diverse categories and partnering with brands at every stage whether they are global leaders, homegrown stalwarts, or ambitious challengers. What sets us apart is our ability to consistently deliver across objectives, from awareness to trials, leads and even creator-led commerce,” said Animeta Brandstar SVP for branded content & creator strategy Biswamitra Ray (Vishu Ray).

    From scaling pop culture with Arijit Singh, Ed Sheeran and Guru Randhawa, to onboarding micro- and nano-creators for hyperlocal impact, Animeta has shown it can flex seamlessly across the spectrum.

    Looking ahead, the company is doubling down on its promise to unlock full-funnel influencer marketing. As advertisers increasingly demand conversion-driven storytelling over vanity metrics, Animeta is positioning itself as the partner that blends data, cultural relevance and creator firepower into campaigns that both trend and transact.

  • Laura Maness steps down as global chief of Grey after three-year stint

    Laura Maness steps down as global chief of Grey after three-year stint

    NEW YORK: Laura Maness is stepping down as global chief executive of Grey, the 105-year-old advertising agency, after more than three years at the helm. In a LinkedIn post published on Thursday, Maness—the first woman to lead the storied shop—said she would be “passing the baton” to close colleagues whilst embarking on what she described as a “bold new chapter.” She offered no details about her next move.

    The departure marks the end of a brief but eventful tenure for Maness, who became only the sixth global chief in Grey’s history when she took the reins in September 2022. During her time leading the WPP-owned agency, Grey operated as a standalone brand within the Ogilvy network, a structure designed to preserve its independence whilst leveraging the broader group’s resources.

    Maness joined Grey from Havas, where she spent nearly a decade, most recently as chief executive of the group’s north American flagship. At Havas she drove what the industry regarded as a remarkable turnaround, earning the agency accolades including Digiday’s most innovative culture and Ad Age’s best places to work. She also steered Havas to become the first major network agency in America to achieve B Corp certification.

    Before Havas, Maness spent six years at Designkitchen, an independent Chicago shop that was acquired by WPP in 2008 following growth she helped orchestrate. Her career spans stints at FCB Global, Propane and Wunderman, with early roles at Black Dog Interactive and Giant Step during the dot-com era.

    Beyond her executive roles, Maness serves on several boards, including Tory Burch Foundation, Alembic Technologies, B Lab and the 4A’s, where she is vice chair. She co-chairs 50/50 Women on Boards and is a founding member of Chief, the invitation-only network for women leaders.

    Grey, founded in 1917, markets itself on creating “famously effective” ideas for brands. The agency has been named to Newsweek’s top 100 global most loved workplaces and America’s greatest workplaces for women, with women representing 50 per cent of its executive leadership.

    Maness’s cryptic sign-off—”As for what’s next? More to come”—has left industry observers guessing about her future plans.

  • Recruiter Nupur Mehta jumps to James Douglas as managing partner

    Recruiter Nupur Mehta jumps to James Douglas as managing partner

    MUMBAI: Nupur Mehta has landed at James Douglas as managing partner, capping a year of musical chairs in India’s executive search industry. She left PageExecutive in September after just eight months as partner, having previously spent nearly 11 years at Michael Page climbing from senior consultant to director.

    James Douglas positions itself as the successor to EMA Partners’ Indian operations, focused on recruitment and succession planning. Mehta will oversee the firm’s consulting work, helping companies identify talent and groom future leaders. She thanked K Sudarshan, Reet Bhambhani, Subburaj S, Sanjeev Das and Malini Bhupta in her LinkedIn announcement—presumably the team behind the new venture.

    At Michael Page, Mehta ran the healthcare, life sciences and technology practices, managing a team of over 15 sales consultants whilst handling profit-and-loss responsibilities. She served on the Page Group’s global shadow executive board, the India technology board, the Asia-Pacific healthcare board and the India diversity and inclusion council. Before that, she spent two years as associate director building out the same verticals.

    Mehta joined Page Group in 2014 fresh from business school, where she had specialised in human resources. A brief summer internship at Mercer, working on a retirement benefits survey, and a year as a software engineer at HCL Technologies rounded out her early career. Her move suggests James Douglas is betting on experienced recruiters to differentiate itself in a crowded market, where firms like Korn Ferry, Egon Zehnder and Russell Reynolds compete for high-margin executive mandates.

    Whether the new firm can carve out a niche remains to be seen. India’s executive search business has grown as companies scramble for senior talent, but the sector is notoriously relationship-driven. Mehta’s decade-plus Rolodex may prove the firm’s biggest asset.