MAM
Birla Move Forward as Saif Mulla Takes Charge of Mid Markets
MUMBAI: A new chapter is turning at Aditya Birla Capital, with Saif Mulla stepping into a bigger national role just as India’s mid-market lending story gathers pace.
Mulla has been appointed National head of mid markets at Aditya Birla Capital Limited, marking a significant progression in a career that has spanned two decades across India’s leading financial institutions. He takes on the role after close to seven years with the group, most recently serving as zonal head.
Based in Mumbai, Mulla’s new mandate places him at the centre of one of the most competitive and fast-evolving segments of India’s financial ecosystem. Mid-market enterprises, often seen as the backbone of economic growth, have been gaining renewed focus from lenders amid improving credit appetite and expanding business ambitions.
Mulla joined Aditya Birla Capital in April 2019 as zonal head, overseeing regional growth and strengthening the company’s mid-market presence across key geographies. His elevation reflects both continuity and confidence, as the group looks to scale responsibly while deepening relationships with emerging and established enterprises.
Before his stint at Aditya Birla Capital, Mulla spent over 12 years at Kotak Mahindra Bank, where he held the role of vice president, building extensive experience in corporate and relationship-led banking. Earlier in his career, he worked with ICICI Bank as a Relationship Manager, laying the groundwork for his long-term focus on client-centric growth.
With this appointment, Aditya Birla Capital signals its intent to sharpen leadership in the mid-markets space, betting on seasoned expertise as businesses look for partners who understand both scale and nuance.
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.
