Category: PR & Communication

  • Crane-ing for attention: Confiance Communications ropes in TIL Ltd

    Crane-ing for attention: Confiance Communications ropes in TIL Ltd

    MUMBAI: In the sprawling world of material handling, where mammoth machines speak louder than words, TIL Limited—India’s eight-decade-old pioneer in infrastructure and material handling equipment—has taken a decisive step to amplify its voice.

    The stalwart, known for revolutionising India’s industrial backbone with cutting-edge mobile cranes and reach stackers, has appointed Confiance Communications as its public relations partner. This strategic collaboration aims to ensure that TIL’s legacy is not just built but brilliantly broadcasted.

    As part of the partnership, Confiance Communications will lead TIL’s comprehensive communications strategy. The agency aims to amplify TIL’s leadership, legacy, and innovative contributions to India’s infrastructure sector. Its mandate includes strategic media relations, reputation management, executive positioning, and the development of compelling narratives that highlight TIL’s specialised offerings for the defence sector and its cutting-edge technological advancements.

    Confiance Communications founder & chief strategist, Bushra Ismail expressed her excitement, “Partnering with TIL Limited marks an exciting milestone in our journey. Their remarkable legacy of delivering cutting-edge material handling solutions has been instrumental in shaping India’s infrastructure landscape since 1944. What truly sets TIL apart is their unique combination of deep engineering expertise, defence sector capabilities, and commitment to technological innovation. As their Communications partner, we look forward to amplifying TIL’s industry leadership through strategic storytelling—from their pioneering work in manufacturing specialised equipment to their crucial role in India’s most challenging infrastructure projects.”

    TIL Limited, head of brand, content & PR, Rishabh P Nair highlighted the importance of the collaboration, “As we accelerate our commitment to advancing India’s infrastructure capabilities, having the right communications partner is crucial. We wanted a dynamic team that could be quick on their feet and aligned with our values of collaboration, caring, customer centricity, excellence, entrepreneurship, and integrity. Confiance’s proven expertise aligns well with our goal of telling TIL Limited’s iconic story. This partnership will be instrumental in showcasing TIL’s technological innovations, our commitment to ‘Make in India’, and our continuing legacy of delivering world-class equipment that powers nation-building projects.”

    Through this partnership, Confiance aims to cement TIL Limited’s position as an industry leader, highlighting its contributions to India’s infrastructure growth and its ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence.

  • Komal Kakkar heads to HP India as head of  corporate  communications

    Komal Kakkar heads to HP India as head of corporate communications

    MUMBAI: It’s been some journey for Komal Kakkar. She began her career in 2008 as a PR executive in the Grasshoppers after completing her  post graduate diploma in advertising and PR, pulic relations and image management from the Sri Aurobindo Institute of Mass Communications. Today she’s perched right on top at multinational tech firm HP India as the head of corporate communications.

    The young professional who familiarised herself  with German by studying it for three years  at the Max Mueller Bhavan, was with Samsung Electronics in corporate communications for more than five years based in Gurgaon. She resigned in January 2024 and took time off to introspect. (Wish we all could have the courage to do that!)

    Prior to Samsung, Komal spent seven years and more at Apollo Munich Health Insurance Co where her knowledge of German would have been handy. She also got herself communication agency exposure by working as a senior management associate at Ipan Hill & Knowlton between 2008 and 2010.

    Komal, who carries her positivity openly,  said on Linkedin: “The year 2024 has been super special. After an enriching sabbatical filled with many adventures, a yoga certification, bucket-list travels, meeting some incredible people on the way, and self-discovery, I’m happy to share that I’ve joined HP as the Head of Communications for India. This time away was transformative—it gave me the space to reflect, rejuvenate, and return with a fresh perspective. I’m thrilled to channel this newfound energy into creating impactful communication strategies for HP, a brand with the vision to create technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere.”

    All we can say to Komal, is more power to you! 

  • Abhinay Singh’s Adgcraft welcomes Hassan Faridi as account director

    Abhinay Singh’s Adgcraft welcomes Hassan Faridi as account director

    MUMBAI: In a world where communication shapes destinies and drives success, Adgcraft is turning the spotlight on innovation and leadership with a stellar appointment.

    With the dynamic energy of reinvention coursing through its veins, one of India’s most trusted PR agencies has announced the 10 year veteran in the industry – Hassan Faridi as its new account director. This landmark addition comes as a resounding affirmation of Adgcraft’s unwavering commitment to crafting strategic and impactful communication solutions. With over a decade of cross-industry expertise, Faridi’s entry heralds a new era of creative brilliance and strategic precision, poised to elevate the agency to unparalleled heights.

    As account director, Faridi will take charge of key client accounts, spearheading strategic communication plans and overseeing seamless execution of PR campaigns. His role will also include mentoring team members and maintaining robust client relationships. Drawing on his extensive experience, he aims to enhance client satisfaction, expand Adgcraft’s portfolio, and align communication strategies with measurable business outcomes.

    Adgcraft, founder & MD, Abhinay Kumar Singh shared his enthusiasm for the appointment, “We are delighted to welcome Hassan Faridi to the Adgcraft family. His extensive experience, strategic acumen, and passion for communication align perfectly with our vision to deliver exceptional results for our clients. Faridi’s leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our team and elevate our service offerings.”

    Faridi expressed his excitement about joining Adgcraft, stating, “Joining Adgcraft represents an exciting chapter in my professional journey. The agency’s commitment to delivering meaningful and impactful communication solutions resonates deeply with my approach to public relations. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here to craft strategies that address client needs while pushing boundaries in how PR drives value for businesses. My goal is to contribute to the agency’s continued growth by delivering consistent, high-quality results for our clients.”

    Faridi brings a wealth of expertise in managing high-impact PR campaigns, nurturing client relationships, and driving strategic initiatives across industries such as Corporate, Technology, Automobile, Finance, FMCG, Retail, CSR, Hospitality, Startups, Education, and Health. His strong team management skills and innovative approach make him a valuable asset in steering Adgcraft towards greater success.

  • Goldiee Group appoints Lokesh Arora  as head of marketing & communications

    Goldiee Group appoints Lokesh Arora as head of marketing & communications

    MUMBAI: Goldiee group has appointed Lokesh Arora as the head of marketing and communications, marking an exciting new chapter in his career within the spices and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. With over 25 years of experience in the event, exhibition, and media production industries, Lokesh brings a wealth of expertise that is set to drive a significant impact in his new role.

    In a recent LinkedIn post, Lokesh shared his enthusiasm for this new journey, stating, “Can’t believe it’s already been five months since I joined Goldiee Group! The last few months have been a whirlwind of learning, strategizing, and diving into some exciting projects. Updating my profile honestly took a back seat while I focused on settling in and making an impact. But now feels like the perfect time to share this milestone. Excited to connect and grow with all of you as I continue this amazing journey!”

    Before joining Goldiee Group, Lokesh served as portfolio director at Franchise India, where he refined his skills in marketing management and strategy. He previously held the role of senior vice president at Images group, managing food and FMCG events and publications, significantly contributing to platforms like Progressive Grocer India and the India Food Forum. His career also includes a position as regional head at World Wide Media (Times of India Group), focusing on business development for prominent magazines and events.

    Lokesh holds a post graduate diploma in management (PGDM) from the All India Management Association (AIMA), providing him with the strategic insight needed for effective marketing and communications.

  • Prasidha Menon elevated to APAC brand, product,  communications  head  at Airbnb

    Prasidha Menon elevated to APAC brand, product, communications head at Airbnb

    MUMBAI: Her’s has been a 20 year  plus journey. Prasidha Menon began her career as a graduate trainee with HRD Coonsultants In Kolkata. She quietly worked there for a little over two years. Little did she imagine at that stage she would be leading brand, product communications for the Asia Pacific regions for one of the top global home sharing brand  platforms– Airbnb.

    Prasidha accepted her promotion from her position as regional head of communications for Airbnb for India & south east Asia  gleefully.  

    Said she: “It’s an absolute honour and privilege to step into this regional leadership position at a time when Asia Pacific is uniquely positioned to drive Airbnb’s growth and expansion globally, and I am excited to play an integral role in this journey.”

    Prior to Airbnb, Prasidha had a year log stay at Optum as director & head, brand, marketing & communications. Oyo Hotels was another stop for a couple of years vice-president & global head of communications, which was preceded by a short stint at Uber India where her last appointment was as head of communications -India and south Asia. 

    Her first exposure to communications was at Positive Communications for a year, which was followed by editorial jobs at two firms where she honed her writing and subbing skills. She then moved into Genesis Burson -Marsteller, following which she spent four years at Edelman in India, and in the Bay area.

     

  • Citi selects Rituparna Ghosh as VP- strategic communications

    Citi selects Rituparna Ghosh as VP- strategic communications

    MUMBAI She’s landed in Citi. Former Linde head corporate communications south Asia, Asean, and CSR-Asean  Rituparna Ghosh has moved into the position vice-president -strategic communications at Citi.  

    Rituparna who’s dabbled in several fields from being a copywriter (Continental Advertising), instructional designer (Brainvisa Tech, Accenture and Unisys), business content solutions provider (Fidelity Business Services), and business and creative services (EY), finally found her mojo in the area of communications when she  signed a contract with Unilever as a strategic communications consultant.

    Since then, the MBA  in marketing   has stuck to basics, to the knitting. Her journey has been in the field of image management over  the past five years.

    And she appears to be doing  a good job, going by the way she was drafted from Linde by Citi for a super relevant post. 
     

  • Swiggy onboards Akanksha Jain in top public relations & communications role

    Swiggy onboards Akanksha Jain in top public relations & communications role

    MUMBAI: She announced her departure from BharatPe around three weeks ago. And, today, food delivery firm Swiggy announced Akanksha Jain’s appointment as assistant vice-president – public relations & communications.

    Akanksha has been associated with the communications profession, building and safeguarding brand reputations for various businesses across India and 30 markets globally for the past 18 years.

    A crisis communications specialist, Akanksha has built and led 360-degree brand communications and reputation campaigns, spearheading PR and communication strategies for technology, SMEs, and new-age companies across e-commerce and fintech companies. Amongst them: HCL Technologies, John Keells Holdings, Askme,  Power2SME, VLCC, Mobikwik, PineLabs, and finally BharatPe.

    An advocate of new-age communications, she has focused on creating strategies that are closely aligned with the brand’s purpose.

    Additionally, she has collaborated with renowned industry associations to drive public policy and build thought leadership around sustainability-led initiatives. 

  • Croma hires Abhishekh Bhot as communications head

    Croma hires Abhishekh Bhot as communications head

    MUMBAI: Infiniti Retail’s  electronics chain has on-boarded Abhishek Mande Bhot as its communications head. Bhot has spent most of his career as a journalist. He has worked with Mumbai Mirror, moving on to Gladrags, followed by Network 18 Media. He had stints with Rediff.com, then Conde Nast after which he moved to Tata Sons as digital content lead.

    He spent the next four years as an adviser to brands like Croma, Microsoft India, Infosys, Urban Company, Moneycontrol, GQ (India), and Conde Nast Traveller (India and UK).

    Finally, one of his clients made him an offer he could not refuse: Croma.

    “(My focus is on) leading Croma’s efforts in strengthening our corporate communications, media relations, and brand storytelling across all platform,” he said on linkedin.

  • Delhi Capitals gets new marketing head

    Delhi Capitals gets new marketing head

    MUMBAI: He’s taken a trip from Lucknow to Delhi. Atishay Agarwal has moved on from Lucknow Super Giants as head of digital to Delhi Capitals as head of marketing. Agarwal has 16 years of work experience – from being an editor to being an analyst and anchor and a digital and social media marketer.

    According to him, the transition is a both  a victory and a breakthrough for him.. “.Over the last decade and more, professionals in content and digital marketing have often been seen as “digital-only” resources rather than integral marketing leaders,” he revealed in a post on linkedin.

    “Historically, marketing leadership roles have been dominated by specialists in offline marketing, while digital-first professionals like myself have questioned: “????’? ??? ???? ?? ?????? ?????? ????????” And for very long, I didn’t have any answer whatsoever. It often felt like this is all I could do for the rest of my career!

    This opportunity with Delhi Capitals represents a shift – one that I’m incredibly grateful for. It’s a recognition that digital expertise is not different or just a subset of marketing, but a cornerstone of modern marketing. Joining the franchise gives me the platform to learn, grow, and maximise my potential alongside an exceptional team.”
     

  • The Media Nanny and Circulate to establish Riyadh office in 2025

    The Media Nanny and Circulate to establish Riyadh office in 2025

    Mumbai: The Media Nanny, an internationally acclaimed creative communications and PR agency, and Circulate, an award-winning digital agency, have announced a strategic partnership to open a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2025. This expansion will establish Riyadh as a regional hub for the agencies, allowing them to extend their expertise in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and offer an agile alternative to larger incumbent agency models.

    As both agencies deepen their global reach, this new office complements The Media Nanny’s headquarters in Amsterdam and Circulate’s existing offices in Dublin and Lisbon. Known for a high-profile client list including names like Mochakk, Gianluca Vacchi, Porsche, and Audemars Piguet, The Media Nanny seeks to cement its influence in the growing MENA market. Similarly, Circulate—renowned for clients like Circoloco, Oliver Heldens, and Jägermeister—aims to bring its music and culture expertise to the heart of Riyadh’s burgeoning entertainment scene.

    The Media Nanny and Circulate have previously collaborated on major events in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, including the MDLBEAST Soundstorm Festival and XP Music Futures conference. This partnership is a natural evolution of their work, enabling them to offer an integrated 360-degree approach to clients. “We’ve seen firsthand the incredible growth of creative industries in the MENA region. These industries need independent, flexible agency partners who truly understand the region, the new-built ecosystems, and its culture, as well as the global marketing landscape,” said Circulate co-founder, David De Valera.

    Both agencies have played significant roles in launching and growing MDLBEAST, a leading Saudi entertainment company known for large-scale events such as the Soundstorm Festival. The Media Nanny’s contributions extend to supporting the PR efforts for high-profile initiatives, including the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and Alicia Keys’ Women to Women campaign, fostering the dynamic sports and entertainment culture in the region.

    The Media Nanny, founder & CEO, José Woldring-Walker, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion: “From the first time I set foot on the ground, I’ve felt extremely welcome and inspired by the Kingdom. We have built a strong track record thanks to the trust from our clients and the successful global campaigns we’ve run with them over the last four years. It’s a priority for us to continue demonstrating our knowledge and expertise by supporting clients who are leading innovation across Saudi Arabia and the MENA region. I believe there is no better city than Riyadh to establish ourselves to service new and existing clients.”

    Circulate’s co-founder, Marcus O’Sullivan, highlighted the unique synergy of the partnership: “Our collaboration with The Media Nanny enables us to use our global music networks and experience to the benefit of our partners. Combined with that, our intention is to attract the very best regional talent to work alongside our existing teams. This will be an unparalleled creative launchpad in the Middle East.”

    With Riyadh as their latest base, The Media Nanny and Circulate are set to provide clients with enhanced on-the-ground support, helping them navigate the evolving cultural and entertainment landscape of Saudi Arabia and the wider MENA region. This expansion positions the agencies as leading creative forces in Saudi Arabia and beyond.