MAM
IPG shuffles McCann Worldgroup senior team
MUMBAI: The Interpublic Group has elevated Harris Diamond from his position as chairman and CEO of IPG’s Constituency Management Group (CMG) to the same role at McCann Worldgroup, replacing Nick Brien.
Also, Luca Lindner and Gustavo Martinez have been given broader mandates within the company with significant geographic responsibilities and full oversight of McCann Erickson Advertising. The trio of Lindner, Martinez and Diamond will occupy a newly-created, three-person office of the Chairman for McCann Worldgroup.
In his new regional role, Lindner will also take charge of Middle East and Africa apart from the Americas while Martinez will add Asia Pacific responsibilities to his current title of president, Europe for McCann Worldgroup. As Diamond takes on his new position, the marketing services agencies that make up the Constituency Management Group will report directly into Interpublic management.
Interpublic chairman and CEO Michael I Roth said, “Harris understands the business needs of global CEOs, across a range of industries. He has a proven track record of effectively managing a portfolio of agencies and growing the top line. He has created a strong culture of collaboration, which is increasingly key in a marketing landscape that requires integration of services. And he brings a deep knowledge of McCann in light of the alignment between Worldgroup and a number of the agencies within CMG, such as Weber Shandwick and FutureBrand. In Luca and Gustavo, we are fortunate to have two outstanding, seasoned practitioners with a deep understanding of the advertising industry and McCann’s fundamental strengths. Over the past year, as co-Presidents of Global Clients for Worldgroup, they have played increasingly key roles in strengthening the agency’s relationships with major clients. Their continuing leadership and complementary skill set will be key to McCann’s future success. We thank Nick for his commitment and for driving change at McCann during his tenure.”
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.
