MAM
Orient Technologies appoints Shrihari Bhat as CEO
MUMBAI: Orient Technologies Ltd., an IT solutions and services provider specialising in cloud and data management for enterprises in India, has appointed Shrihari Bhat as its chief executive officer, effective 1 January 2025. The board of directors approved his appointment in November 2024. With over 25 years of leadership experience, Shrihari will guide the company in enhancing its service offerings and expanding its market presence.
He holds a degree in engineering and a Master’s in marketing management. Before joining Orient Technologies, he served as a division executive for International markets at FIS and held senior roles at NCR and FirstData (now Fiserv). In his new position, Shrihari will oversee technology transformation and business expansion, supporting the company’s goal of becoming a key player in the IT solutions landscape.
Orient Technologies Ltd chairman and managing director Ajay Sawant said, “Shrihari is a highly accomplished business leader and we are delighted to welcome him on our team. Shrihari has demonstrated a strong track record in building high-performance teams and executing strategic growth initiatives. He will be working closely with Umesh, Jayesh, Ujjwal, and me to foster innovation and ensure our company’s success. His in-depth knowledge and industry expertise, combined with his visionary approach, will be instrumental in guiding the company as we continue to expand our presence and deliver innovative solutions to our clients.”
Shrihari’s experience includes leading cross-functional teams and delivering advanced solutions, with over 20 years spent in international markets, including Singapore. His global perspective will aid in scaling innovative solutions across regions.
“I am deeply humbled and grateful to the board of directors at Orient Technologies Ltd. for entrusting me with this exceptional opportunity,” Shrihari stated. “As I step into this role, I am keenly aware of the responsibility and privilege that comes with leading a pioneering IT services organization. My focus will be on empowering our teams to deliver exceptional solutions and fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and customer-centricity. I am committed to building a resilient and agile organisation that not only adapts to the rapidly evolving IT landscape but also leads the way in digital transformation, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data management. Together with our talented team, I look forward to delivering operational excellence, driving innovation, and creating value for our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”
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.
