Tag: Marketing Leadership

  • Preetha Athrey hits marketing jackpot, trades up to The Trade Desk as brand marketing director

    Preetha Athrey hits marketing jackpot, trades up to The Trade Desk as brand marketing director

    MUMBAI: Ever watched a seasoned marketer switch gigs like she’s flipping pancakes—swiftly, smoothly, and landing perfectly each time? Meet Preetha Athrey, who just flipped herself a sizzling new role as Director of Brand Marketing at The Trade Desk. If career moves were Olympic sports, she’d be clutching gold by now.

    Athrey, a seasoned brand-builder with a CV dazzling enough to make LinkedIn algorithms blush, announced today: “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as director of brand marketing at The Trade Desk!”

    Athrey’s impressive professional innings include stints as marketing director for Twitter Asia Pacific, two-time entrepreneur, and roles at high-flying corporates such as Airtel, Time Warner, and Apollo Tyres. This certified independent director has navigated brands through marketing whirlwinds and emerged victorious each time. Talk about having more experience than a LinkedIn Influencer has connections!

    At The Trade Desk, a global leader in digital advertising technology, Athrey’s move signals a strategic play—much like swapping pawns for queens in a chess match of corporate marketing. Will her magic branding wand sprinkle gold dust again? Only every colleague who’s ever worked with her would say “obviously, yes!”

    Preetha Athrey stepping into her new role highlights the growing importance of brand narrative in a world ruled by algorithms and attention spans shorter than your last Netflix binge. Who better to keep audiences glued than someone who once kept Twitter timelines ticking across Asia Pacific?

    This career leap is not just a win for Athrey—it’s a slam dunk for The Trade Desk. As marketing continues to evolve at a dizzying pace, they’ve snagged someone who knows precisely how to make brands not just heard but adored.

    Stay tuned, folks—this could get very interesting, very fast. Because when Preetha Athrey makes a move, you know it’s going to shake things up.

  • Agilitas snags ex-Bumble director Samarpita Samaddar for comms lead

    Agilitas snags ex-Bumble director Samarpita Samaddar for comms lead

    MUMBAI: Agilitas is making bold moves, and this time, it’s off the track. India’s fastest-growing, end-to-end futuristic sportswear company has roped in Samarpita Samaddar as its communications lead, ensuring the brand sprints ahead in storytelling, reputation, and PR-led campaigns.

    With a stellar track record, Samaddar is no stranger to crafting narratives that resonate. As the former communications director, India and southeast Asia at Bumble Inc., she was the force behind the women-first dating app’s award-winning campaigns, leading its communication strategies and serving as its official spokesperson in India for nearly four years. If Bumble made headlines, chances are, she had a hand in it.

    But her expertise goes beyond swiping right. With 14 years of experience under her belt, Samaddar has built aspirational brands across consumer technology, entertainment, arts, lifestyle, and sports. Before diving into the world of dating apps, she shaped India’s film industry, helping establish powerhouse studios such as Zee Studios and Eros International. Her portfolio boasts over 40 film campaigns, including blockbusters like Bajirao Mastani, Newton, Aligarh, Dhadak, Ki & Ka, and Kesari.

    Now, at Agilitas, she steps into a world where performance meets innovation—this time, in sportswear. Her challenge? To drive brand and corporate communications while ensuring Agilitas makes as much noise in the media as it does in the athletic arena.

    Sharing her excitement on LinkedIn, Samaddar stated, “Super excited to share that I’ll be leading communications strategies at Agilitas in my new role! Building a pathbreaking journey for and telling the story of India’s fastest growing end-to-end, agile, futuristic, consumer-focused sportswear company is a rare opportunity, and I’m all geared up to go! I’m thrilled to help revolutionise India’s sports, fitness and fashion landscape, working closely with visionaries and an incredibly talented team. Here’s to making moves to change how people look and feel as they move!”

    From Hindi cinema to Bumble and now to bold new beginnings in sportswear, Samaddar’s journey proves that storytelling has no boundaries—only new arenas waiting to be conquered.

  • NP Digital India ropes in Venkata Gavaskar Dontha from iProspect India

    NP Digital India ropes in Venkata Gavaskar Dontha from iProspect India

    MUMBAI: The performance-driven digital marketing agency, NP Digital India, has welcomed Venkata Gavaskar Dontha as its new head of digital operations. Armed with over 17 years of expertise in performance marketing, SEO, social media, and analytics, he’s stepping in to lead client growth, revenue expansion, and the next wave of digital innovation tailored for the Indian market.

    Venkata joins NP Digital India from iProspect India, where he helmed the performance practice, driving cross-functional teams to award-winning success. His strategic vision helped the agency bag prestigious Agency of the Year titles, cementing his status as a digital marketing trailblazer. Now, at NP Digital India, he’s all set to shake things up.

    The appointment of Venkata is part of NP Digital India’s aggressive growth strategy. Over the past few months, the company has strategically onboarded two senior leaders, reinforcing its commitment to expanding global digital solutions in India.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Venkata to our leadership team. His remarkable expertise will be key to our strategy of integrating technology-driven digital services and SEO, enabling us to deliver global products in the Indian market. In fact, over the last couple of months, we have strategically onboarded two leadership positions to strengthen our executive team and accelerate our growth. This is just the beginning of a transformative phase for NP Digital India,” said NP Digital India CEO & co-founder Prady.

    Venkata, too, is ready to hit the ground running. “I have always admired the digital marketing insights of Neil Patel. Now, joining NP Digital India gives me a unique opportunity to both learn and apply my existing experience within a company that embodies an innovative, ahead-of-the-curve approach. I’m excited to transform digital challenges into creative, performance-driven solutions for our clients,” he said.

    NP Digital India is on a mission to dominate the digital marketing space, and bringing in leaders like Venkata only strengthens its commitment to innovation and client success. With his expertise, the company aims to drive operational excellence, expand revenue streams, and continue leading the charge in digital marketing’s technological evolution.

  • Aarthy Sridhar shifts into the fast lane as CMO of Gulf Oil India

    Aarthy Sridhar shifts into the fast lane as CMO of Gulf Oil India

    MUMBAI: Aarthy Sridhar is shifting gears—from FMCG powerhouse to the high-octane world of lubricants. After an illustrious 14-year journey at Hindustan Unilever (HUL), she is now stepping into her new role as chief marketing officer at Gulf Oil Lubricants India Ltd. And if her track record is anything to go by, the brand is about to get a turbocharged marketing revamp.

    Sridhar, an IIM Ahmedabad alumna and seasoned marketing leader, has built an impressive career at Unilever, where she drove consumer engagement and brand strategy across multiple categories. Now, she’s set to bring her expertise to a completely different playing field—one filled with high-performance engines, cutting-edge innovation, and a fiercely competitive market.

    In her new role, Sridhar will oversee brand strategy, product innovation, and customer engagement for Gulf Oil India. Known for its strong presence in automotive and industrial lubricants, the company is gearing up for its next phase of growth, and Sridhar is at the helm, ready to fuel its marketing evolution.

    Sridhar expressed her excitement about the new challenge on Linkedin, stating, “Firsts are always special, and after nearly 14 years with my first job at HUL, this one feels especially significant. A truly incredible stint—filled with growth, learning, and countless memories that I will cherish forever. Today, I’m excited to announce the next chapter of my journey as chief marketing officer at Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited.”

    Sridhar’s transition from FMCG to the automotive lubricant industry is an exciting shift that highlights her adaptability and marketing acumen. Gulf Oil, a brand synonymous with endurance, performance, and legacy, is poised to leverage her deep understanding of consumer behaviour and brand-building strategies to stay ahead in the race.

    During her tenure at Unilever, Sridhar spearheaded multiple successful campaigns and strategic initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on the FMCG sector. Now, as she takes charge at Gulf Oil, industry insiders are keen to see how she will apply her data-driven, consumer-focused approach to an industry known for its legacy-driven brand loyalty.

    With 14 years of Unilever experience under her belt, a sharp strategic mind, and an unmatched passion for marketing, Sridhar is ready to hit the ground running—or rather, hit the accelerator full throttle.

     

  • Amit Gujral joins Aarambh Communications as strategic advisor

    Amit Gujral joins Aarambh Communications as strategic advisor

    MUMBAI: When it comes to marketing mastery, few names shine as brightly as Amit Gujral—and now, he’s bringing his magic to Aarambh Communications as a strategic advisor. The former CMO of JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. and LG Electronics India Ltd. is swapping corporate boardrooms for brand storytelling, and with 29 years of experience in branding, advertising, and product marketing, he’s here to ensure Aarambh’s clients don’t just make noise but own the conversation. After all, why just shine when you can dominate?

    Aarambh Communications, co-founded by Sukriti Vajpayee and Himanshu Upadhyay, has carved a niche for itself across FinTech, Healthcare, Lifestyle, NBFCs, MarTech, Consumer, Real Estate, and Ed-Tech. Now, with Gujral at the advisory helm, the firm is poised to take brand storytelling to the next level, blending creative brilliance with sharp market strategy.

    Gujral is no stranger to game-changing campaigns. At JK Tyre, he led the celebrated “JK Tyre Desh Ka Tyre – Jab Hindustan Mile Hindustan Se”, an ad that didn’t just sell tyres—it ignited national pride. His tenure at LG Electronics was equally iconic, spearheading branding initiatives that cemented LG’s leadership in consumer electronics.

    Sharing his excitement, Gujral stated, “Marketing and branding are not just professions for me – they are a lifelong passion. As I begin this fresh innings, I’m excited to embrace this role of mentor, helping businesses navigate their growth journeys with impactful strategies. Aarambh Communications’ track record of creating lasting brand equity is remarkable. I’m looking forward to contributing to their mission and helping further elevate the brands they work with.”

    Vajpayee called this appointment a defining moment, “Having Amit Gujral join our advisory board is a huge win for Aarambh. His unmatched expertise in marketing and his visionary approach align perfectly with our mission to help brands achieve sustained success. Our growth has always been driven by the trust of our clients, and this step further accelerates our commitment to delivering exceptional value in the PR space.”

    Upadhyay echoed this sentiment, “Amit’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as we expand our service offerings. His deep understanding of consumer behaviour and ability to craft multi-channel marketing strategies will allow us to merge innovative marketing and PR tactics, ensuring that our clients receive holistic, results-driven solutions that strengthen their brand’s market presence.”

    With Gujral’s expertise, Aarambh Communications is set to redefine the future of PR and marketing, offering cutting-edge strategies that don’t just amplify brands but forge deeper, more meaningful connections with their audiences.

     

  • 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.

  • Jaskaran Singh Kapany joins MobiKwik as chief marketing officer

    Jaskaran Singh Kapany joins MobiKwik as chief marketing officer

    Mumbai: MobiKwik proudly announces the appointment of Jaskaran Singh Kapany as its new chief marketing officer (CMO). In his new role, Kapany will spearhead strategic growth initiatives, collaborate with exceptional colleagues, and contribute to MobiKwik’s vision of revolutionising digital payments and financial services in India.

    With an impressive track record in marketing leadership roles, Kapany’s expertise will play a pivotal role in furthering MobiKwik’s commitment to transforming the digital finance landscape. His appointment underscores the company’s focus on innovation and customer-centric strategies to strengthen its position as a leader in digital payments. MobiKwik remains dedicated to enhancing financial inclusivity and delivering cutting-edge payment solutions that simplify lives across India.

  • Hogarth India appoints new VP to drive regional growth

    Hogarth India appoints new VP to drive regional growth

    Mumbai: Hogarth India, part of WPP and a global leader in creative production, announces key leadership appointments with Madhurika Banerjee and Ishita Hora joining the senior leadership team. These strategic hires aim to bolster Hogarth’s creative and production capabilities across India, reflecting the company’s commitment to regional growth.

    Madhurika Banerjee steps in as vice president, North, bringing over 15 years of experience in building high-performing teams and delivering award-winning campaigns across sectors including FMCG, consumer durables, auto, BFSI, real estate, and media & entertainment. Previously, as Schbang, brand solutions, vice president, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Delhi operations and worked with high-profile clients like Tata Beverages and JnJ Pharma. “I’m excited to take up this role to explore new avenues and create transformative experiences for our brands. Hogarth is on a strong growth trajectory, and I look forward to creating strong brands and transforming their content experience journey,” said Banerjee.

    Ishita Hora joins Hogarth as vice president, West, bringing with her 13 years of expertise in integrated marketing, account management, and consumer research. Her ability to build strong client relationships has been instrumental in driving business growth for leading brands such as Coca-Cola, Caratlane, and Haier. Before joining Hogarth, Ishita was at Ogilvy, as client servicing director, where she led key client engagements and strategic initiatives. “Hogarth is a place where creativity, innovation, and production come together seamlessly, and I’m excited to dive in and make the most of it. I’m looking forward to working with an incredibly talented and driven team that pushes boundaries like second nature. Looking forward to this next phase of growth and all the exciting things ahead,” she said.

    Hogarth India, CEO, Karthik Nagarajan commented on the appointments, saying, “Our commitment to clients is to deliver the best content experience for their audiences in a medium-agnostic way. The world of content and production today is more dynamic than any other part of the marketing engine, and so client leaders also need to be change managers. Madhurika and Ishita are exceptional, dynamic leaders who can lead change at our as well as our clients’ end.”

    With Madhurika based in Gurgaon and Ishita in Mumbai, Hogarth India continues to focus on leadership excellence, striving for superior content experiences and client satisfaction.

  • Charuta Saoji joins Viacom18 as Colors marketing head, leaving L’Oréal

    Charuta Saoji joins Viacom18 as Colors marketing head, leaving L’Oréal

    Mumbai: In a notable move within the marketing and media landscape, Charuta Ambardekar Saoji has joined Viacom18 as the vice president and head of marketing for Colors, the network’s flagship entertainment channel. Saoji’s transition from L’Oréal, where she served as marketing director, marks a strategic shift in her career towards the dynamic world of television.

    Saoji brings with her a wealth of experience in brand management, having successfully spearheaded campaigns for several high-profile brands at L’Oréal. Her appointment at Viacom18 comes as Colors continues to seek innovative ways to engage audiences and strengthen its market position in the highly competitive television space.

    Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Saoji stated, “I am thrilled to join the Viacom18 family and look forward to shaping the future of Colors’ brand strategy. It’s an exciting time for the channel as we explore fresh approaches to content and audience engagement.”

    This move comes at a crucial time for Viacom18, as the company aims to further consolidate its leadership position in the entertainment industry. Saoji’s expertise in consumer insights and her ability to craft compelling marketing narratives are expected to play a pivotal role in driving Colors’ growth trajectory. The channel, known for its wide range of popular shows, stands to benefit from her leadership in enhancing brand communication and expanding its reach across diverse audience segments.

    Prior to this, Saoji made significant strides at L’Oréal, where she led campaigns that bolstered the brand’s presence in the Indian market. Her experience in navigating the complexities of consumer behavior and brand loyalty will be instrumental in crafting Colors’ future marketing strategies.

    Industry insiders view Saoji’s appointment as a strategic hire that will add considerable depth to Viacom18’s leadership team. With her track record of executing successful marketing strategies, she is well-positioned to elevate the brand’s market presence.

    “Charuta’s appointment reflects our commitment to bringing on board marketing leaders who can drive brand growth through innovation and consumer focus,” said a Viacom18 spokesperson. “Her ability to understand consumer trends and create impactful brand stories aligns perfectly with our vision for Colors.”