MAM
Harish Shriyan to step down as CEO of Omnicom Media Group India
MUMBAI: Harish Shriyan has decided to step down from his role as CEO of Omnicom Media Group Indiaby the end of 2019. Over the next six months, Shriyan will work closely with the agencies’ senior leadership team to ensure a smooth transition for the business while the Group searches for a new CEO.
Shriyan was promoted to the chief executive role in December 2017, having been with the Group since its establishment in 2007 and served as its Chief Operating Officer from 2013 to 2017. With Shriyan’s support, the Group’s agencies –OMD and PHD –have grown to become full-fledged enterprises, resulting in the appointment of brand-level CEOs in the past two years: Priti Murthy and Jyoti Bansal respectively.
Speaking on his 12-year journey with the Group, Shriyancomments: “I am incredibly honoured to have had the opportunity to work with so many talented individuals over the years and been part of the Group’s establishment and growth in India. Given its strength in the form of its unique brand positioning, talent pool, infrastructure and exemplary leadership, I am confident that this is the right time for me to pass the baton on. I also have every confidence that the Group and its agencies will continue to excel in India and will follow their journey with pride andadmiration.”
Tony Harradine, Omnicom Media Group APAC CEO, adds: “Since its launch, Omnicom Media Group India has continued to go from strength to strength, becoming a key part of our Global business; Harish has been an integral part of that journey as a founding member and custodian of our brands. We thank Harish for all of his contributions to our business over the past 12 years and wish him all the best for the future.”
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.
