MAM
Ajay Shanker joins Ultraviolette as CFO to spearhead global expansion
Mumbai: Ultraviolette Automotive, an innovator in future-ready Electric Vehicle Platforms and battery technology, is excited to announce the strategic induction of Ajay Shanker as its chief Financial Officer (CFO). Ajay comes with a rich background spanning over 25 years in pivotal financial roles at Schneider Electric, IIM Bangalore – NSRCEL, Aricent (Flextronics), Cannon Inc and Yamaha Motors. His last stint as CFO was with Schneider Electric for their international business GSC covering India, the Middle East, Africa & South America, East Asia, Japan & Pacific.
Speaking on this strategic move, Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & co-founder, Ultraviolette expressed, “Ajay’s unparalleled experience and strategic insight will be crucial as we evolve into a global scale product company with multiple business verticals. His leadership will enhance our capability to execute our vision, pushing the boundaries of electric mobility worldwide.”
Ajay Shanker, CFO, Ultraviolette expressed his excitement about his new role, “I’m captivated by Ultraviolette’s ambition to lead the electric mobility race with groundbreaking products and a solid business model. The company’s blend of innovation, global talent, strong competitive positioning, and clear vision for the future is what drew me in. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey to redefine electric mobility on a global scale.”
Ultraviolette CTO & co-founder Niraj Rajmohan shared his perspective, “We are on the brink of revolutionising electric mobility. Ajay’s expertise in financial strategy and growth management will play a central role in this transformation, ensuring Ultraviolette not only leads but defines the future of sustainable transportation.”
This pivotal appointment comes at a time when Ultraviolette is gearing up for an exciting phase of expansion and innovation, backed by strong business fundamentals and a track record of success, including the F77’s recent accolade as AUTOCAR Awards 2024 – “Electric Two-Wheeler of the Year.”
Brands
CNBC-Awaaz Udaan wraps debut season, gears up for bigger second run
Pan-India campus drive empowers youth with real-world career skills
MUMBAI: CNBC-Awaaz has wrapped up the first season of its campus initiative, Udaan Taiyari Kal Ki, with plans already in motion for a bigger and broader second edition.
Run in partnership with UTI Mutual Fund, the programme travelled across more than 10 cities and 18 leading institutions, including top management schools, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace readiness.
At its core, Udaan tackled a familiar challenge. While millions graduate each year, many step into the professional world underprepared for its financial, emotional and strategic demands. The initiative sought to change that by offering practical insights into investing basics, career planning, decision-making and mental resilience.
The scale was notable. Over 3,800 final-year postgraduate students participated directly, with sessions spanning cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bengaluru. The impact extended further through television and digital platforms, turning the programme into a hybrid learning experience.
Each campus stop featured a mix of panel discussions, fireside chats and hands-on workshops, bringing newsroom-style conversations directly to students. The format struck a chord, with strong engagement reflecting a growing appetite for real-world skills beyond textbooks.
Reflecting on the journey, CNBC-Awaaz managing editor Anuj Singhal said, “UDAAN is one of our most engaging and interactive IPs, built around empowering India’s youth. It felt good to be back on college campuses, engaging directly with students. These conversations go beyond classrooms, helping students gain real-world perspective and confidence as they step into their careers.”
From the partner’s perspective, the focus remained on financial awareness. UTI Mutual Fund MD and CEO Vetri Subramaniam said, “It is important to engage with students who are on the brink of their corporate journey. We need to guide them on financial investments so they can begin early and build long-term habits.”
Highlighting the broader vision, Network18 CEO of English and Business News Smriti Mehra said, “Through Udaan, CNBC-Awaaz is taking real-world knowledge directly to campuses while shaping the next generation of leaders. The response shows a clear need for platforms that go beyond academics.”
With its first season striking a strong chord, Udaan has positioned itself as more than just a campus event. As it gears up for Season 2, the initiative looks set to expand its footprint and continue preparing young India for the leap from campus to corporate life.
