MAM
Adfactors PR launches in Singapore and Canada
MUMBAI: Indian communication consultancy firm Adfactors Public Relations has launched its Singapore and Canada operations.
Adfactors Public Relations director Madan Bahal says, “These are the first steps in providing a global delivery capability to our Indian clients who are venturing into the international markets. Over time we will gear up to compete for local business in these markets.”
Both the Singapore and Toronto offices will function as independent business units. The practice focus will be consistent with the Indian operations, namely corporate communications, investor communications, public affairs and crises. The firm will target sectors like financial services, IT and ITES, infrastructure and aviation as well as medium to large listed corporates requiring investor communications.
In the first quarter of next year, the firm’s Dubai representative set-up will be upgraded to a full-service office. Bahal adds, “Progressively, Singapore will emerge as our service base for the Asean region while Dubai becomes the focal point of our GCC operations”.
The Singapore office is headed by Rajesh Nair while Orencio Rodrigues leads the Toronto operations. Both of them have had long stints in Adfactors Public Relations India. This is consistent with Adfactors Public Relations’ philosophy of providing growth opportunities to its team and fostering the evolution of a consistent culture across regions.
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.
