MAM
Publicis Ambience & Ambuja Cement part ways
MUMBAI: Ambuja Cement and its creative partner Publicis Ambience have decided to mutually part ways.
“When we started our journey together, the goal was to set stage for Ambuja to be counted among India’s Top 10 brands. We all knew that this task can only be accomplished over many years. Nonetheless our Khali campaign did go a considerable way to move us towards the goal. Together we have celebrated that fact that this campaign won accolades from every national and international award – be it for creativity or effectiveness. However, as we assessed the way forward, we understood that we have differences in our vision for the brand and the category and agreed that it would be best if we parted ways at this point in time,” said Publicis India managing director Srija Chatterjee in a statement.
This mutual decision marks the end of relationship of almost four years in July this year between Publicis Ambience and Ambuja Cement.
“It was a fruitful partnership. Khali certainly was a new high in our brand building process. Not only that it locked strength with Ambuja inseparably, but also took the brand to a new level’, said Ambuja Cement head of brand and marketing strategy Vivek Deshpande, adding, “However, going forward, we have mutually agreed to part ways to explore a different approach to branding. “
MAM
Ameya Velankar steps down as Uber’s head of marketing for India & South Asia
Veteran marketer exits after more than seven years with the ride-hailing giant.
MUMBAI: After more than seven years of steering Uber through the bumpy roads of India’s mobility market, Ameya Velankar has decided to change lanes. Ameya Velankar has stepped down as Head of Marketing for India and South Asia, marking the end of a significant chapter at the ride-hailing company. He had been with Uber since 2019, taking on multiple roles in product and category marketing before rising to lead the marketing function for the region in 2021.
During his tenure, Velankar played a key role in strengthening Uber’s positioning in one of its most competitive and dynamic markets. He helped drive localised marketing strategies and scale adoption across key offerings such as Auto, Moto, Rentals and Intercity, tailoring global platforms to Indian consumer needs.
Prior to joining Uber, Velankar built his marketing expertise at leading consumer companies including SC Johnson and Marico, where he handled category and product leadership roles. His career began at RPG Enterprises.
Details of his next professional move have not been disclosed.
In a fast-evolving mobility landscape where brands constantly battle for attention, Ameya Velankar helped Uber stay relevant and resonant with millions of Indian users. As he moves on from the driver’s seat of marketing, the company will now look for fresh ideas to keep its wheels turning smoothly.
