MAM
Nikita Hooper takes the helm at Micromax Informatics as head of communications & marketing
MUMBAI: Nikita Hooper has announced her new role as head of external & internal communications and marketing for Micromax Informatics Ltd, MiPhi Semiconductors Pvt Ltd (a joint venture between Micromax and Phison), and Bhagwati Products Ltd.
Nikita Hooper is a seasoned communications professional with over a decade of experience in public relations, corporate strategy, and marketing..
In a heartfelt reflection on her professional journey, Hooper described the past year as one of profound personal and professional growth. “The past year has been transformative,” she shared. “It was a time of self-reflection, growth, and embracing change, even when it meant letting go of things that no longer aligned with my purpose. Heading into 2025, I’ve committed to prioritizing what truly matters and making bold moves toward meaningful impact.”
Hooper’s decision to join Micromax comes after a remarkable tenure with Versuni (formerly Philips Domestic Appliances), where she led communications with distinction. Prior to that, she made significant strides at Haier Appliances India, Jajabor Brand Consultancy, and Ruder Finn India, among others. Throughout her career, she has excelled in roles requiring expertise in corporate communications, internal and external messaging, employee engagement, employer branding, and reputation management.
A graduate of Jesus and Mary College, Hooper brings a wealth of experience in event management, media relations, and client services. Her career trajectory has been defined by a series of leadership roles at top organizations, including Genesis BCW and Brandwidth Events.
In her new position at Micromax, Hooper will focus on pushing boundaries and driving innovation in corporate communications and marketing strategy. She describes the move as “a leap of faith” and an opportunity to “explore uncharted territory while redefining what’s possible.”
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI:Â Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
