MAM
Essel group’s Fun Republic launches mobile ticketing service
MUMBAI: The Essel Group owned four-screen cinema multiplex Fun Republic has, with the aid of GurukulOnline Wireless, developed a sophisticated SMS-based movie information and ticketing service for the multiplex in Mumbai.
As of now only BPL and Airtel mobile phone subscribers can use this facility by sending an SMS to 3867.
Fun Republic’s Head – Web, Anuj Mehta said, “Our wireless booking service enables the integration with our existing Cinema-Ticketing solution. As a result, customers not only get the confirmation code, but the actual seat numbers. Fun Republic is the first multiplex to provide such information through online wireless means. As the solution is real time, chances of error are totally eliminated. It is India’s first real-time SMS cinema ticket booking facility.”
Customers can book tickets in advance and are required to turn up at Fun Republic’s booking counter 45 minutes before the start of show, after which they will be cancelled, Anuj added.
GurukulOnline CEO Shailesh Mehta said, “The wireless technology solution we have developed for Fun Republic is extremely user-friendly. It enables not only ticket bookings, but also cancellations, supply of information about movies and special schemes applicable from time to time.”
Though this service can presently be used only through BPL and Airtel services, GurukulOnline is in the process of tying up with other mobile phone service providers, Anuj said.
Fun Republic will soon launch contests through the mobile phone network developed by GurukulOnline, and winners will be entitled to a lot of exciting gifts like free tickets, combo vouchers etc at Fun Republic.
MAM
WPP appoints Mark Taylor as chief people officer in leadership reshuffle
Marie-Claire Barker moves to culture role as Cindy Rose builds new team
MUMBAI: WPP has appointed Mark Taylor as its new chief people officer, bringing in a seasoned HR leader as part of a broader leadership reshuffle under chief executive Cindy Rose, according to media reports.
Taylor succeeds Marie-Claire Barker, who will transition into a specialised role focused on performance and culture, reporting to him. The move is seen as part of WPP’s effort to sharpen its organisational structure and align talent strategy with its transformation agenda.
With more than three decades of experience, Taylor brings a diverse track record across industries including pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, retail and digital entertainment. He most recently served as chief people advisor at The LEGO Group, where he worked closely with top leadership on board and executive appointments, governance and organisational strategy.
Prior to that, he held senior HR leadership roles at Burberry and King, where he played a key role in organisational transformation and integration efforts, including the company’s alignment with Activision Blizzard. Earlier in his career, Taylor also worked with Kimberly-Clark and GlaxoSmithKline.
His cross-sector experience is expected to support WPP’s three-year ‘Elevate 28’ turnaround plan, which focuses on simplifying operations, strengthening capabilities and driving sustainable growth.
The appointment marks the second major leadership hire under Rose in a week. Recently, WPP named Anne-Isabelle Choueiri as chief transformation officer, bringing in additional firepower to execute its strategic overhaul. Choueiri previously held a senior transformation role at Estée Lauder Companies.
The leadership changes signal a clear push by WPP to blend experience with transformation as it navigates a rapidly evolving advertising landscape. With Taylor now steering the people agenda, the company appears focused on ensuring its talent strategy keeps pace with its broader ambitions.
