MAM
Mahindra Lifespaces appoints Viral Oza as chief marketing officer
MUMBAI: Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd, the real estate and infrastructure development arm of Mahindra Group, today announced that it has appointed Viral Oza as chief marketing officer (CMO). In his new role, Oza will play a pivotal role in the journey of all the Company’s brands, building deep market understanding and strengthening customer insight capabilities. Viral will steer this transformation, crafting, and leading marketing and growth programs across the Company’s residential and industrial businesses.
Mahindra Lifespaces MD and CEO Designate Arvind Subramanian said, “The addition of a seasoned leader like Viral to our management team will significantly add to Mahindra Lifespaces’ strengths as one of India’s most trusted real estate companies. Viral brings a perfect mix of organisational leadership, marketing innovation expertise and global brand-building experience that will strengthen the effectiveness of our sales efforts and partnerships, while driving customer experience excellence.”
Oza added, “I am thrilled to join Mahindra Lifespaces’ executive team, especially at a time when the Company is poised for strategic growth in its key markets. I look forward to being a part of the growth journey of all the Company’s brands that have created a space in the minds and hearts of both retail and corporate customers.”
Viral joins the company with over 28 years of experience across FMCG, telecom, media and real estate, spanning several countries in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Through his global career journey, he has developed strong business, management and leadership skills through building and growing diverse teams in companies including Unilever, Nokia and Microsoft. Prior to joining Mahindra Lifespaces, Viral was the chief marketing officer at Lodha Group, where he was responsible for driving marketing excellence, building customer eccentricity, and shaping organizational culture and talent.
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.
