Brands
‘Winning in India’, co-authored by Samarjit Singh and Amit Burman unveiled
MUMBAI: The book ‘Winning in India’- Secrets of the World’s Most Complex Market, was launched at the Oberoi, New Delhi by Montek Singh Ahluwalia in the presence of Analjit Singh and Sunil Munjal. Over 350 high profile guests representing the most successful entrepreneurs and who’s who of the Delhi circle attended the event.
The book written by Samarjit Singh and Amit Burman with Pooja S Mehta explores secrets for running a successful business enterprise in India. Montek Singh Ahluwalia in his launch speech called it “an affectionate account of India.” R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki Ltd, said that the book is “A fascinating and deeply insightful understanding of what makes India “Different.” The authors have compiled a must read for anyone doing business in India, especially foreign investors.
In ‘Winning in India’, the authors, who themselves run very large companies, India Homes and Dabur Foods Ltd, have distilled the business learning of five business titans- Analjit Singh, Sunil Mittal, K P Singh, Sunil Munjal and Hari S Bhartia.
An essence of many intense discussions with these business leaders, ‘Winning in India’ explores how Indian frugality makes admiration of flamboyance a spectator sport and therefore what it means for a business in India. It unravels how deep spirituality ensures that while we are teetering on the brink of chaos, we are never falling. It provides insights for working with emotionally sensitive Indians who find solace in community. From Jugaad mindset to value perception to a unique Indian way, the book takes you through a series of experiences that help envisage a strategy for winning in India.
In a nation that was always known to be obsessed with cricket and Hindi cinema, the unbridled pursuit of success and winning is becoming a new national sport. Millions of starry-eyed graduates leave schools and colleges armed with over-reaching ambition as their primary emotion. On the other hand the international businesses have viewed the rising spending power and the promise of volumes in India with a longing eye. Yet, India has remained elusive and business in India a daunting challenge.
However, in this conundrum of action, there is an axiom of insight. The book unravels the secrets of the world’s most complex market in a simple actionable format that allows for racy reading, thought provoking reflection and determined action.
The authors call it a project that is not intended to be a conclusive thesis. It is a thought and a conversation starter. It is an invitation for the readers to join them on their quest to understand the enigmas called corporate India and the Indian consumer and therefore they invite the readers to join the debate at www.WinningInIndia.com and share their personal experiences at #WinningInIndia.
Brands
Rohini Laya Venkateswaran named executive director at Gillette India
P&G veteran with two decades of experience steps into leadership role
NEW DELHI: Rohini Laya Venkateswaran has been appointed executive director at Gillette India Pvt. Ltd., bringing with her more than two decades of experience across sales, strategy and brand leadership within the consumer goods sector. In her new role, she will help steer the company’s strategic direction and growth while strengthening its footprint in the grooming and personal care category.
Venkateswaran joins the board after a long career at Procter & Gamble, where she spent nearly 21 years shaping sales strategy, building brands and driving market expansion across India and international markets.
Most recently, she served as chief sales officer for India at P&G. Prior to that, she was vice president and country manager for east gulf markets, overseeing operations in Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Qatar while also guiding sales strategy across the Gulf region, including the UAE.
Earlier in her career, she led sales strategy and planning for India while serving as marketing leader for brands such as Olay and Old Spice. During this stint, she focused on reshaping go-to-market channels and building awareness through digital, social and influencer-led campaigns to drive growth.
Her journey at P&G also included roles such as director sales strategy and planning leader India, associate director modern retail and ecommerce, regional manager for Delhi and Rajasthan, and several key account and trade marketing roles across the country. She also spent time in the United States working on the P&G Walmart international team, collaborating on global retail initiatives.
Venkateswaran holds an MBA in marketing from SP Jain Institute of Management and Research and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from RV College of Engineering.
With her mix of sales acumen, brand-building experience and global exposure, Venkateswaran’s appointment signals a sharpened focus on growth and market leadership for Gillette India.
