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Tag: Communications

  • Simran Kodesia takes charge of communications at Peak XV Partners

    Simran Kodesia takes charge of communications at Peak XV Partners

    MUMBAI: Peak XV Partners, the venture capital firm spun out of Sequoia Capital’s India and Southeast Asia operations, has appointed Simran Kodesia as head of communications. Based in India, she will be responsible for shaping and protecting the firm’s reputation across India, Southeast Asia and the US
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    Kodesia brings 17 years of international communications experience across consumer technology, hospitality and media. She joins Peak XV from DoorDash in San Francisco, where she spent nearly four years as director of international communications, steering the food-delivery giant’s consumer and technology narrative, managing global media relations and handling crisis strategy.

    Prior to that, she played a central role in Airbnb’s India and Southeast Asia expansion, helping to embed the brand in new markets and reframe travel culture through campaigns focused on community and conscious tourism. She has also held senior positions at The Claridges Hotels & Resorts, ixigo, and Hill+Knowlton Strategies, where she worked with marquee clients including Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Sony Entertainment Television on pre-opening launches, brand positioning and new-channel roll-outs.

    Colleagues describe her as a values-driven leader with a flair for storytelling that scales. Over the years she has built and led award-winning campaigns in collaboration with global influencers, founders and senior executives. Her expertise spans influencer marketing, strategic and corporate communications, crisis management and public affairs.

    Educated at the International School of Communication in London, with further training at the University of Zurich, Kodesia says she is motivated by building platforms that allow founders and brands to “tell authentic stories at scale.”

    For Peak XV, which manages over $9bn in assets and backs companies such as Zomato, Freshworks and GoTo, her appointment signals a renewed focus on narrative discipline as competition intensifies among venture firms in Asia and scrutiny of tech investors grows sharper in Washington and beyond.

  • 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.

  • Israel’s Gilat Satellite acquires inflight connectivity specialist Stellar Blu Solutions

    Israel’s Gilat Satellite acquires inflight connectivity specialist Stellar Blu Solutions

    MUMBAI: It’s taken off with the right velocity and direction in 2025. Israeli satellite-based broadband communications provider  Gilat Satellite Networks announced  on 7 January that it has successfully closed the acquisition of US-based provider of next-generation satcom terminal solutions  and aircraft communications technologies, Stellar Blu Solutions. 

    The cost: $98 million in cash, as adjusted. Gilat had $115 million in net cash at the end of 2024, but it went for a new secured credit line of $100 million from HSBC Bank US and Bank Hapoalim to fund $60 million of the consideration paid at closing. The remaining $40 million, from the secured credit line, along with the company’s resources, is expected to be called upon and cover potential earn-out payments. The three year loan will bear interest at a rate of SOFR plus 2.6 per cent to 3.35 per cent. 

    Funding this acquisition through a combination of Glat’s interna resources and a secured credit line will provide it  with additional flexibility given the opportunities in the market. The acquisition amount may go up by up  by  an additional $147 million in cash, conditioned upon the business achieving operational and strategic business milestones, during the first two years that follow the signing of the agreement.

    Says Gilat CEO Adi Sfadia:  “This acquisition is a pivotal step in our strategy to expand Gilat’s presence in the growing in-flight connectivity (IFC) market. We expect Stellar Blu’s cutting-edge technologies, combined with Gilat’s advanced IFC solutions to position us as a market leader for both commercial and business aviation, as well as adjacent high-end mobility markets that are ideal for electronically steered antenna (ESA) applications.”

    He adds: “With the increasing demand for free, seamless, high-quality in-flight wifi and Stellar Blu’s pioneering expertise in multi-orbit Leo and Geo IFC solutions, we will be able  to meet the most demanding service level agreements in the industry, opening up new growth opportunities in aviation and beyond. We expect to ship hundreds of Stellar Blu’s Sidewinder terminals during the upcoming quarters.”  

    The company expects its annual revenues from Stellar Blu to range between $120 and $150 million in 2025, based on the latter’s  robust backlog. In addition, the acquisition is expected to be accretive on non-GAAP results for 2025. Furthermore, the company  estimates that once Stellar Blu reaches its target manufacturing capacity, which Gilat expects will occur during the second half of 2025, Stellar Blu’s EBITDA margin is expected to be above 10 per cent.   

    (The photo for this article was generated using Microsoft Designer. No copyright infringement is intended.)

  • Aakhya India hires Himansh Dhomse as senior account director

    Aakhya India hires Himansh Dhomse as senior account director

    MUMBAI: He spent almost nine years of the initial part of his career as a journalist with Business Standarad and DNA aa financial correspondent. In 2014, Himansh Dhomse switched careers  joining the investor relations department at Infibeam in Ahmedabad. In a year and a half, Reliance Jio Infocomm lured him to head its corporate communications for the state –  a post he stayed in for seven years until January 2023.

    A good two years followed as a senior account director once again in home base in Ahmedabad with communications consulting firm The Good Edge. Two years later Himashu has joined Aakhya India as associate director of communications for the firm, functioning as the CMO for Gujarat, based in Gandhinagar.

    Founded in 2012, Aakhya India is an independent, full-service strategic public affairs consultancy firm specialising in policy advocacy, communications and public relations. The company has specialists in communications consultancy straddling deftly the worlds of policy advocacy, government relations and strategic media relations.

     

  • 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.

  • Koffeetech Communications restructures into six specialised verticals

    Koffeetech Communications restructures into six specialised verticals

    Mumbai: Koffeetech Communications, a digital marketing agency, has announced a restructuring to enhance impact and growth across industries. As part of its expansion, Koffeetech has consolidated operations into six specialised verticals: communications, labs, media works, boosters, studios, and motion pictures, establishing itself as a digital marketing conglomerate. This change coincides with the opening of new offices in Pune and Bangalore, strengthening the agency’s presence in key markets.

    Guided by the principle “We are KAAFI for you,” Koffeetech aims to be a trusted brand partner, providing digital solutions that combine creativity, strategy, and technology. With expertise in real estate, e-commerce, education, and more, Koffeetech focuses on delivering services that meet the evolving demands of today’s market.

    “Our vision has always been to provide specialized, innovative solutions that drive meaningful growth for our clients,” said Koffeetech Communications founder & CEO Jay Rathod. “This restructuring into six verticals allows us to offer even more focused expertise while scaling our operations to meet the needs of clients across India and globally.”

    Koffeetech Communications’ six vertical powerhouses:

    . Communications: Focused on digital marketing, managing SEO, social media strategies, and digital brand building.

    . Labs: The technology arm specializes in website development, app development, and digital transformation.

    . Media Works: This public relations vertical specializes in media buying and reputation management, helping brands communicate effectively while managing event planning and crisis management.

    . Boosters: Designed to accelerate business results through data-driven performance marketing, paid search, social media advertising, influencer collaborations, and mobile marketing.

    . Studios: Focuses on innovative branding and design solutions, creating standout visuals and launching impactful ad campaigns.

    . Motion Pictures: Specializes in high-quality video production, creating corporate films, product showcases, and ad films, with a focus on storytelling for lasting impact.

    Koffeetech’s geographical footprint has expanded recently, positioning itself to serve clients in India’s major business hubs. This approach allows the agency to tap into a broader talent pool and work across sectors such as real estate, e-commerce, education, and healthcare.

    “Our expansion into Pune and Bangalore reflects our commitment to growth, both in terms of team size and client reach,” Rathod continued. “We know the growing market in various industries in these cities. And there is more to come.”

    Koffeetech has built long-term partnerships with brands across India, helping them navigate the digital landscape. The agency’s team now includes over 75 skilled professionals, with plans for continued growth by focusing on specialised talent for each vertical.

    Koffeetech has established expertise in real estate, where its digital marketing solutions have helped developers increase lead generation, brand awareness, and sales. A Morgan Stanley report predicts that India’s e-commerce market will reach $200 billion by 2026, with a 30 per cent compound annual growth rate. Koffeetech is prepared to drive this growth.

    India has also seen a surge in foreign direct investments in education, amounting to $9.51 billion between 2000 and 2024, boosting higher education and EdTech sectors. Koffeetech is recognised for driving student enrollment through targeted campaigns across digital platforms. “Whether we’re working with real estate developers, educational institutions, or e-commerce brands, our goal is to provide them with strategic, impactful services that drive real results,” added Rathod.

  • “Column Inches provides tailored startup guidance services to support emerging businesses Pan-India”: Sanya Bajaj

    “Column Inches provides tailored startup guidance services to support emerging businesses Pan-India”: Sanya Bajaj

    Mumbai: Column Inches is the go-to PR and media relations agency, dedicated to amplifying brands and startups alike. Their tailored services encompass strategic PR campaigns, startup guidance, influencer marketing, event PR, crisis communication, and digital media promotion. They prioritize building trust and visibility for their clients in Gurgaon and beyond.

    With a proven track record of securing exposure and fostering growth, they ensure that every campaign resonates with the target audience and drives tangible results. Whether it’s crafting compelling narratives, navigating crisis, or harnessing the power of digital media, their experienced team is committed to delivering impactful outcomes for brands.

    Indiantelevision.com had an enlightening conversation with Column Inches founder Sanya Bajaj, where she delved into the intricate details of her company.

    Edited excerpts

    On the inspiration to establish Column Inches and sharing your clientele roster and achievements

    The inception of Column Inches was ignited by my profound passion for communications and a fervent aspiration to pioneer a PR agency distinguished by its commitment to innovation, client-centricity, and industry leadership. Drawing upon my extensive experience within the PR realm, I discerned a niche for a boutique agency capable of furnishing bespoke services and tailored strategies aimed to meet the diverse needs of clients spanning myriad sectors.

    At Column Inches, our unwavering dedication revolves around furnishing exceptional PR solutions that yield tangible outcomes for our esteemed clientele. Our roster encapsulates a rich tapestry of startups, SMEs, and renowned enterprises across an eclectic array of industries, encompassing technology, healthcare, education, fintech, and beyond.

    Our journey has been punctuated by noteworthy milestones and achievements:

    Exponential Growth: Since our inception, we’ve experienced meteoric growth, witnessing an impressive surge of 80-100% in our formative years. This trajectory of success has been sustained, with an enviable annual growth rate of 30-35% over the past three consecutive years. Additionally, we have been profitable since day 1.

    Industry Acclaim: Our agency’s endeavors have been lauded by esteemed industry authorities, evidenced by accolades such as the ‘PRmoment 30 under 30’ and the ‘Reputation Today- 40 Young Turks’ awards. These distinctions underscore our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation within the dynamic landscape of PR. Additionally, I have been nominated for the esteemed Social Samosa Superwomen 2024 award and was honored as the Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year at the e4m Women Achievers Summit 2023, further cementing our dedication to driving transformative change and fostering industry-wide recognition.

    On the role of influencer marketing playing in modern PR strategies, and integrating it into its services

    In modern PR strategies, influencer marketing is pivotal for amplifying brand messaging and engaging target audiences authentically. At Column Inches, we integrate influencer marketing by strategically partnering with influencers whose values align with our clients’ brands. We design targeted campaigns, co-create compelling content, and measure performance meticulously to drive impactful results. Our approach focuses on building long-term relationships with influencers based on trust and transparency, ensuring genuine advocacy and maximum campaign effectiveness. By leveraging the influence and reach of key opinion leaders, we enhance brand visibility, credibility, and reputation, driving tangible business outcomes for our clients.

    On elaborating on the startup guidance services offered by Column Inches

    Column Inches provides tailored startup guidance services to support emerging businesses Pan-India. Our approach involves strategic planning, media relations, thought leadership, content creation, crisis communication, and networking. We work closely with startups to develop PR strategies aligned with their goals, securing media coverage, positioning founders as thought leaders, and creating engaging content to enhance brand visibility. In times of crisis, we offer rapid response strategies to mitigate reputational damage. Additionally, we facilitate networking opportunities for startups to connect with potential investors and collaborators, fostering growth within the startup ecosystem. Through our comprehensive guidance services, we empower emerging businesses with the tools, resources, and strategic support needed to navigate the competitive landscape and achieve long-term success. Startups appreciate working with our young, energetic team that understands the frugal environments typical in early-stage ventures, ensuring efficient and effective solutions tailored to their needs.

    On leveraging online platforms to enhance brand visibility and engagement for its clients

    We meticulously curate compelling content, including press releases, articles, and multimedia materials, optimizing them for online dissemination. Our team orchestrates social media campaigns, influencer collaborations, and online events to amplify brand messaging and foster meaningful interactions with target audiences. We harness the power of online PR channels, securing features on reputable websites, blogs, and digital publications to broaden brand exposure. By synergizing traditional PR expertise with digital acumen, we navigate the dynamic digital landscape to elevate client brands, solidify their online presence, and cultivate lasting engagement with audiences.

    On challenges you faced while building and growing Column Inches

    Building and growing Column Inches posed challenges in talent and client acquisition, and adapting to market dynamics. Overcoming these obstacles required strategic approaches. We fostered a positive work culture to attract top talent, showcasing our commitment to excellence and offering growth opportunities. To build trust with clients, we provided successful case studies, transparent communication, and pilot projects. Flexibility and innovation helped us stay ahead of market trends, ensuring we met evolving client needs. By prioritizing perseverance, strategic planning, and a customer-centric approach, we navigated these challenges and drove the growth of Column Inches.

    On trends do you anticipate shaping the future of PR and media relations

    Anticipating the future of PR and media relations, Column Inches is preparing to adapt to key trends by prioritizing digital transformation, personalized communication, influencer collaboration, transparency, and AI integration. We are investing in advanced analytics tools to optimize our digital strategies, ensuring effective online engagement and audience targeting. Our team undergoes continuous training to master emerging technologies and trends, enabling us to deliver innovative and tailored PR solutions. Additionally, our commitment to authenticity and transparent communication remains unwavering, fostering trust with stakeholders. By embracing these trends and remaining agile in our approach, Column Inches is poised to thrive in the evolving landscape of PR and media relations.

  • BConnect Communication bags PR mandate for AI Logistix

    BConnect Communication bags PR mandate for AI Logistix

    MUMBAI: Bconnect Communication, an integrated communication agency has bagged the PR mandate of AI Logistix. This is a start-up in the delivery arena. Bconnect has become AI Logistix’s official communication partner.

    Bconnect will handle the integrated communications and media relations & strategies for AI Logistix. They will ensure Brand AI Logistix gets the correct visibility, communication advice and complete PR and media connectivity all over India. Their campaigns will focus on AI Logistix’s need to present its rising delivery portfolio.

    The company aims to identify and resolve day-to-day logistics and supply chain issues with a promise of Green Deliveries with Zero carbon emission. They have already started their journey towards optimising the last mile delivery with electric vehicles saving costs to the customer and making this world greener.

    AI Logistix co-founder Abdul said, “The engagement of Bconnect Communication as our PR agency is a matter of happiness. They have the confidence to help push AI Logistix more into public focus via various campaigns. AI Logistix is committed to revolutionising the delivery field with our expertise. And we need our vision & work to be well-represented in the public domain. It will help us progress with the right investors and buyers approaching us. Bconnect captured the vision in their pitch. We are excited about this partnership.”

    Bconnect Communication founder & director Neha Bahri said, “We, at Bconnect, want to thank the founders of AI Logistix, for providing us with this opportunity. India’s delivery sector is hugely expanding. What AI Logistix is working on is truly something to watch out for. And to be a part of their journey and help it rise through our work will be exciting.”

  • GUEST ARTICLE: How PR is evolving to go beyond local geographies and meet the global needs of fast-growing local brands?

    GUEST ARTICLE: How PR is evolving to go beyond local geographies and meet the global needs of fast-growing local brands?

    Mumbai: Local brands have evolved rapidly in the recent decades because of technological advancements and changes in business practices. The emergence of numerous technologies, most notably the Internet, may be monitored and linked to the growth of local brands. New channels and different working techniques were introduced by technology, resulting in a shift in profession and practice that could not have been expected when they were first introduced. Local brands are enhancing their online presence among a certain target audience and may communicate the appropriate message at the right time, improving brand reputation and supporting local brands in becoming global brands. A sound marketing plan is critical to the success of local brands and may help them generate consistent profits.

    With PR local brands can communicate with a wide range of people and are not restricted to the geographical borders of their markets, this also implies that companies may conduct business and that their reach has grown global. With such rise and development in technologies, local brands can expand them quicker, reaching the maximum number of audience and connecting brands with different markets throughout the globe. As technology develops, it will emerge with new strategies for brands, which will be supporting the local brands in enhancing the brand awareness and brand position in the global market. Here are the some of the ways in which PR helps the local brands to grow-faster and how it is going beyond local geographics and meeting the global needs:

    Digital PR

    Digital PR helps local brands to adapt and build their online presence, because brands are wherever people are. It enables local brands to have direct and two-way communications that are not constrained by place or time. Digital PR overcomes digital obstacles by utilising the digital environment to the brand’s benefit. It builds solid and long-term relationships with the target audience by disseminating information more quickly and efficiently. positively affects brand reputation and aids in brand awareness.

    Building local narrative with global perspective

    PR has perfected interacting with targeted audiences by providing customised material that is relevant to the audience and news that is of interest to them. It is assisting in the creation of a story for local businesses, and via that narrative, local brands are gaining a global perspective. It is now simpler for brands to establish a perspective and engage with their desired audience.

    Creating larger categories for local brands

    With the increased usage of social media, viewers are far more powerful than they were previously. PR helps local brands in creating wider categories and spreading knowledge about them; it also creates a narrative that is controlled by the brands via the use of various instruments. With so much competition in every sector, public relations assist businesses by utilising their USP and categorising them for increased brand recognition among targeted customers.

    Facilitated local and International collaboration

    The purpose of public relations is to preserve brand image while also representing the fundamental values and offers of the company. It is difficult to connect with a worldwide audience. PR may assist local brands in using sponsored partnerships with global influencers to generate unique engagement programmes and enhance brand recognition for local brands. These may be strategically mapped across channels, from social media and blogger partnerships to on-ground activations at modern trade establishments or leisure/social events, where the local brand can effortlessly connect with its audience and by this local brand can raise funds.

    Local brands can now contact the correct audience more efficiently and with more success. Local brands thrive because they can connect with customers and understand their requirements, while still offering products and services at reasonable pricing. In today’s world, social media applications like Instagram and Facebook make it simple to establish a local brand. The idea that individuals want to tell their stories and those businesses need to develop and manage their image and communication remains consistent, but there has been a shift in how, what, and where tales are shared because of PR.

    The author is Scenic Communications co-founder Anindita Gupta.