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Omnicom shakes up PR: Golin-Ketchum merger, Porter Novelli joins FleishmanHillard
Matt Neale to lead combined agency as Porter Novelli shifts into FleishmanHillard
MUMBAI: Omnicom is shaking up its public relations roster with a bold restructuring move, according to media reports. The holding company is merging Golin and Ketchum into a single brand agency, while Porter Novelli will now operate under the FleishmanHillard umbrella.
The combined Golin-Ketchum agency will be led by Golin CEO Matt Neale as chief executive officer, with Ketchum’s Tamara Norman stepping in as global president. Norman, who became Ketchum’s US CEO in 2024, has been steering the ship since former CEO Mike Doyle’s departure in July. Despite the merger, both brands will retain their individual identities during the transition.
Meanwhile, Porter Novelli will no longer operate independently. The agency will continue as a dedicated brand within FleishmanHillard, bringing together expertise in corporate affairs, reputation management, and social impact work. FleishmanHillard CEO J.J. Carter will stay at the helm, while Porter Novelli CEO Jillian Janaczek takes on the role of Americas CEO within the new structure, according to reports.
The shake-up sits within Omnicom Public Relations, one of the group’s “connected capabilities,” overseen by CEO Chris Foster. The move is part of a wider plan to streamline operations, improve consistency across markets, and ensure clients experience uninterrupted service.
Not every agency under Omnicom’s PR umbrella is affected. Weber Shandwick, MMC, and the company’s public affairs firms including DDC Public Affairs, GMMB, FP1 Strategies, Mercury Public Affairs, Plus Communications, Portland Communications, and Vox Global will continue to operate as usual under their existing leadership.
The restructuring is set to roll out in phases throughout 2026, with Omnicom emphasising continuity for both clients and teams.
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.
