MAM
MediaVest to handle Novartis’ media biz in India
MUMBAI: Novartis India has handed over its media duties to MediaVest Worldwide which belongs to the Starcom Mediavest Group (SMG).
The account size in India is estimated to be around Rs 200 million.
Globally Starcom MediaVest Group had won the $600 million account for Novartis in December 2011. According to the agreement SMG took over the Novartis account over the globe from MEC. While in some countries SMG will handle the account, MediaVest Woprldwide will hand the Novartis media account in others.
In India MediaVest will be responsible for the pharmaceutical giant’s media business.
A spokesperson from MediaVest confirmed the news to indiatelevision.com and informed that though the announcement for the win of the global account was made in December 2011, the two parties were in talks and ironing out creases for the final announcement.
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.
