MAM
Cannes Lions 2014: Grey, JWT only Indian agencies making it to Press Lions shortlist
MUMBAI: Last year 37 Indian entries had got shortlisted in the Press Lions category, but this year the numbers have been disappointing. Only three entries each from Grey and JWT have made it to the Press Lions shortlist this year.
Grey’s campaign ‘Choo-Choo’, ‘Remote Control’ and ‘Camera’ for Duracell Batteries have qualified for the finals under the ‘Household Category.’ The other three entries that made it to the finals are JWT India’s ‘Ouse’, ‘Antique’ and ‘Music’ campaign for Godrej Security Solutions. These campaigns qualified under ‘Home Appliances & Furnishings’ subcategory.
Around 472 entries have made it to the Press Lions shortlist. The Press Lions was introduced in 1992. Since 2002, the festival has recognised Press and Outdoor as separate advertising media, awarding each their own Grand Prix.
Brands
Pocket FM elevates Lalit Gangwar to COO to drive global growth
Founding member to lead operations, monetisation and expansion across markets
MUMBAI: Pocket FM has elevated Lalit Gangwar to chief operating officer, tasking the founding team member with leading global business operations as the company sharpens its international growth strategy.
In his new role, Gangwar will oversee end-to-end operations across markets, including growth, monetisation and execution for the company’s audio business. The appointment comes as Pocket FM looks to strengthen its operating foundation and build a more predictable, scalable global business.
Gangwar has been closely involved in shaping the company’s trajectory from its early days. He played a key role in building the growth and marketing playbook in India, helping the platform scale to over 150 million users within its first year and establish a strong foothold in the audio storytelling category.
He later led Pocket FM’s expansion into the United States, where he set up teams, defined market strategy and drove scale, contributing significantly to the company’s international ambitions.
Pocket FM co-founder and CEO Rohan Nayak said, “Lalit has been central to Pocket FM’s journey from the very beginning. He has built our growth engine and scaled our business across markets.” He added that the company’s focus on nurturing internal talent makes Gangwar a natural choice to lead the next phase.
Gangwar said, “Pocket FM has always been driven by a simple belief that powerful stories can travel across borders and create meaningful impact.” He noted that the company will continue to focus on scaling markets, investing in AI-led storytelling and strengthening monetisation.
As COO, Gangwar is expected to bring greater operating discipline while building systems, talent and processes to support long-term growth.
With leadership continuity and a clear global focus, Pocket FM appears to be turning the page to its next chapter, one that aims to take its storytelling playbook well beyond home turf.
