MAM
Deepali Naair steps down as group CMO at CKA Birla Group after power-packed run
MUMBAI: Marketing heavyweight Deepali Naair has called time on her high-voltage tenure as group chief marketing officer at the CKA Birla group, wrapping up a transformative 2.5-year stint marked by bold rebranding moves, big-league M&As, and boardroom-to-ground level action across a sprawling portfolio of businesses.
Naair, a veteran of IBM, IIFL, Mahindra Holidays and L&T Insurance, exits after helming marquee projects like the launch of BirlaNu, renaming of Trust Hospitals, and the pivotal transition from CK Birla Group to the sharper, sleeker ‘CKA’ moniker. Her remit spanned industrial giants—from NBC Bearings to GMMCO, Orient Electric to Avtec—and included stints leading marketing strategy for Birlasoft, Neosym, and the group’s hospitals and fertility ventures.
“It felt like being at a private equity firm with a front-row view,” Naair said in a LinkedIn post, recalling her tenure that also saw her coordinate four mergers and acquisitions, launch a new school, and even host the president of India.
Colleagues describe her as a formidable mix of brand savant and business tactician—one who brings both EQ and IQ to the table. Known for her cross-industry versatility, Naair has toggled between digital transformation, brand identity overhauls, and sales pipeline acceleration with equal flair.
The exit marks the close of yet another chapter in a career that spans three decades and top-drawer roles at Tata Motors, BPL Mobile, Marico, HSBC Asset Management, and Mahindra group, where she was also on the diversity council. From launching Mediker’s “school adda” campaigns to reshaping demand patterns at Mahindra resorts via analytics, Naair has consistently played in the big leagues.
With no announcement yet on her next move, speculation is already swirling about what challenge she’ll take on next. If history is anything to go by, it’ll be bold, brand-first, and anything but boring.
Brands
Disney Cruise Line launches Disney Adventure as Robert Downey Jr. christens ship in Singapore
Star studded ceremony marks line’s first Southeast Asia ship
SINGAPORE: Disney Cruise Line has officially welcomed its newest and largest ship, the Disney Adventure, with a glittering, music filled christening ceremony in Singapore, marking the brand’s first ever vessel to homeport in Southeast Asia.
Held inside the ship’s grand Walt Disney Theatre, the celebration unfolded as a theatrical spectacle worthy of Broadway. Regional vocalists and musicians were joined by a 23 piece orchestra, while sweeping video projections wrapped the stage in classic Disney, Pixar and Marvel moments. Special appearances from captain Mickey Mouse and captain Minnie Mouse added a touch of nautical charm.
Among the headline performers were Jed Madela, hollywood performing arts hall of fame inductee, and Dami Im, international recording artist known for Eurovision. Together, they led a soaring tribute to Disney’s musical legacy.
On stage to mark the milestone were Josh D’Amaro, chairman of disney experiences and incoming chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, and Joe Schott, president of disney signature experiences.
D’Amaro described the ship as a new chapter for the company in Asia, saying it would bring Disney storytelling to audiences who may be experiencing the brand’s magic for the first time.
The ceremonial highlight came from Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr., who serves as the ship’s godparent. With characteristic flair, he declared, “You bring the theme and I’ll bring the thunder,” before delivering the traditional blessing: “I christen thee, Disney Adventure, may God bless this ship and all who sail upon her.”
The ceremony closed with a jubilant rendition of “Let’s Set Sail”, a long standing Disney Cruise Line tradition designed to stir excitement for the voyages ahead.
Drawing on more than a century of storytelling from Disney, Pixar and Marvel, the Disney Adventure promises a floating world of fantasy. Guests can wander through seven immersive themed areas, including San Fransokyo Street inspired by Big Hero 6.
On board highlights include a brand new Broadway style musical titled Remember, immersive dining, signature fireworks at sea, imaginative children’s clubs and a vibrant collection of bars and lounges for adults. Thrill seekers can also take on Ironcycle Test Run, the cruise line’s first roller coaster at sea.
The Disney Adventure is the eighth ship in the fleet and sets sail on its maiden voyage on 10 March, launching an inaugural season of three and four night itineraries. It forms part of an ambitious expansion plan that will see five more ships join the fleet by 2031.
For Disney, the magic is no longer just on stage or screen. In Singapore, it now sails.
