MAM
Nikhil Kamath announces Bill Gates as first guest for his new podcast People by WTF
Mumbai: Podcast series “WTF is with Nikhil Kamath” announces its new segment, “People By WTF,” featuring none other than Bill Gates, the globally renowned co-founder of Microsoft, philanthropist, and influential thought leader, as its first guest. Gates’ appearance marks a significant milestone for the podcast, known for its in-depth conversations with industry titans and innovators around the world.
Scheduled to stream on 14 June 2024, this special segment promises to delve into Gates’ extensive experience in technology, his visionary insights on the future of global health, and his ongoing commitment to philanthropy through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Listeners can expect a candid and thought-provoking discussion as entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath engages with Gates on topics ranging from technological advancements to sustainable development and global health initiatives.
Bill Gates and Nikhil Kamath share a longstanding philanthropic association. Nikhil has pledged to donate 50 per cent of his wealth to ‘The Giving Pledge,’ founded by Bill Gates and Warren Buffet, making him the fourth and youngest Indian to commit to this significant charitable initiative. Their collaboration extends to the Young India Philanthropic Pledge (YIPP), a transformative educational initiative in Karnataka. The YIPP represents a commitment by India’s young change-makers to dedicate a minimum of 25 per cent of their wealth to drive global change, beginning with India. This joint endeavor underscores their shared commitment to improving educational outcomes and empowering the youth of India for a brighter future.
“WTF is with Nikhil Kamath”, continues to rise for intellectual discourse, drawing audiences keen on learning from the most influential personalities. “People by WTF’ promises to bring the world’s renowned personalities, so don’t miss this new segment with Bill Gates, streaming on all major platforms on 14 June 2024.
MAM
Kenneth Roman, former Ogilvy CEO and ad industry veteran, passes away at 95
Longtime Ogilvy & Mather leader and David Ogilvy biographer leaves lasting legacy
NEW YORK: Kenneth Roman, the former chairman and chief executive of Ogilvy & Mather and a defining figure of Madison Avenue’s golden era, has passed away at the age of 95. He died on 22 April 2026 at his home in Manhattan.
Roman spent more than two decades at Ogilvy, joining in 1963 as an account executive and steadily rising through the ranks to lead the agency as chairman and CEO from 1985 to 1989. His tenure coincided with a pivotal period in the company’s history, including its acquisition by WPP.
Beyond the boardroom, Roman was widely respected as the definitive chronicler of the agency’s founder, David Ogilvy. His biography, The King of Madison Avenue, remains one of the most authoritative accounts of modern advertising’s evolution. He also co-authored influential titles such as How to Advertise and Writing That Works, both regarded as essential reading in the industry.
In a tribute, Ogilvy described Roman as a “quietly determined” leader and a lifelong custodian of the agency’s culture. Even after retirement, he remained closely connected to the firm, contributing articles, mentoring talent and serving as a trusted voice on its history and values.
Colleagues remember him not just for his leadership, but for his generosity and commitment to the craft of writing and storytelling. His presence at industry events and continued engagement with the Ogilvy community reflected a career that never quite slowed down.
Roman’s passing marks the end of an era for the original Madison Avenue generation. He leaves behind a legacy shaped by leadership, authorship and an enduring belief in the power of ideas and people.
