MAM
Red Fuse Communications ups Shubha George as Asia MD
MUMBAI: WPP’s Red Fuse Communications has promoted Shubha George as managing director of Asia and CEO of India with immediate effect.
In her new role, George will lead the development of integrated marketing communications for Colgate-Palmolive across Asia.
She will continue to be based out of Mumbai and will continue to report in to Red Fuse Communications global CEO Stephen Forcione.
George’s new remit will be in addition to her current role of CEO India of Red Fuse Communications; a role she assumed in 2013.
Prior to joining Red Fuse, she was the CEO at MEC India, where she started working on the Colgate-Palmolive business. George also led the development of digital, sports marketing and content partnerships for the agency.
Speaking on her new role, George said, “Working with Colgate-Palmolive and the Red Fuse teams at both Mumbai and Hong Kong has been a truly rewarding experience; and with my new responsibilities, I look forward excitedly to contribute to Colgate-Palmolive’s success in the region by efficiently and creatively cross –pollinating ideas and processes across and between, people and offices.”
Previously, she has also worked in agencies like Ogilvy, JWT and Mindshare.
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.
