MAM
AndAnd Brand Partners expand their strategic leadership team
Mumbai: AndAnd Brand Partners (&&), a pioneering force in the advertising industry known for its innovative approach to client briefs, has announced a significant expansion of its senior leadership team. This strategic enhancement aims to bolster the agency’s capabilities and foster a new era of growth and creativity in response to the evolving market landscape.
The agency, which has consistently adapted to the shifting dynamics of the advertising world, has now strengthened its leadership ranks with the addition of esteemed creative director, Abhi Sengupta. Sengupta, formerly at BBH, brings over 15 years of profound experience in understanding consumer behaviour and managing high-profile accounts like Pepsi, Pizza Hut, Max Life Insurance, Dettol, MMT, Fanta, Greenply and etc. His expertise is set to drive &&’s creative vision forward.
Joining him on the creative front are Shyamakanta Pradhan and Nandini Pathania, both of whom have demonstrated exceptional talent and commitment to the agency’s creative endeavours. Pradhan, a veteran at &&, has an impressive track record with brands like Gionee and Future Group, while Pathania, who joined in 2021, has previously enriched her portfolio with significant stints at Mullen Lowe and Dentsu, working with key clients like Honda and Canon.
On the client relationship side, && continues to rely on the robust partnership of Pinaki Sarkar and Diganta Sinha. Sarkar, with a vast background spanning over 17 years across various industries, and Sinha, known for his dynamic presence in the agency, together form a formidable team driving the agency’s business strategy and client relations.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Abhi Sengupta as the creative director at AndAnd. The new world needs new ideas and the evolving landscape of advertising and marketing favours innovative minds. With our senior leadership in place, we are hopeful of delivering strategic solutions to the complex brand problems” said AndAnd Brand Partners, partner Rajesh Minocha. “This strategic move is set to not only enhance our service offerings but also solidify our position as a leader in the creative industry.”
AndAnd remains committed to its roots in classical creativity while embracing the digital evolution that characterizes today’s advertising landscape. The agency is poised for its next phase of growth, focusing on delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the complex demands of its clients and the market at large.
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.
