MAM
WPP appoints Cindy Rose as non-executive director
MUMBAI: WPP has announced the appointment of Cindy Rose to its board as a non-executive director. She has been working as the Microsoft UK CEO. Her appointment will be effective from 1 April 2019 and she will serve as a member of the Audit Committee.
Rose became Microsoft UK CEO in 2016, with responsibility for all of Microsoft’s product, service and support offerings across the United Kingdom, continuing the company’s transformation into the leading productivity and platform company for the mobile-first, cloud-first era. Prior to joining Microsoft, Rose was managing director of the UK consumer division at Vodafone where she led the expansion of its retail store estate from 350 to over 500 stores.
Before Vodafone, she was executive director of Digital Entertainment at Virgin Media where she was responsible for the launch of the company’s next generation pay TV platform powered by TiVo. Rose spent 15 years at The Walt Disney Company where she held a variety of roles including SVP and managing director of the Disney Interactive Media Group EMEA. In 2013, she joined the board of Informa, a FTSE 100 academic publishing and events company, as an independent non-executive director.
Commenting on the appointment, WPP chairman Roberto Quarta said, “Cindy is one of the most admired and respected figures in the technology industry, and we are delighted to welcome her to the WPP board. Her deep understanding of the role of technology in business transformation will be invaluable as the executive team implements its new strategy for growth.”
Cindy Rose said, “WPP has set out a bold new vision for its future as a creative transformation company, with a commitment to invest in talent, technology and culture. I look forward to supporting the team and making a contribution at such an exciting and important moment in the company’s development.”
Brands
RR Kabel expands FMEG portfolio with kitchen appliances and air coolers
Company forays into mixers, cooktops and hand blenders under RR Signature brand.
MUMBAI: RR Kabel has just cooked up something new and it’s not just another wire. The leading wires and cables manufacturer has announced a significant expansion of its Fast-Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) portfolio by entering the kitchen appliances segment and strengthening its air coolers range under the premium RR Signature brand. The company has introduced Mixer Grinders, Electric Cooktops (both Induction and Infra-Red variants), and Hand Blenders. These products mark RR Kabel’s strategic foray into everyday kitchen essentials, allowing it to reach deeper into Indian households beyond traditional electrical categories.
The Induction and Infra-Red Cooktops are seeing particularly strong demand amid global developments affecting LPG pricing and supply. Consumers are increasingly shifting to electric cooking for its energy efficiency, precise control, and safety features. RR Signature is reinforcing its ‘Aapke Kaam Ki Baat’ promise with best-in-class warranties across the range.
The company also plans to introduce additional kitchen appliance categories in FY26-27. In parallel, it has expanded its Air Cooler portfolio with new Industrial (Semi-Commercial) models featuring higher tank capacities and superior air throw, catering to both commercial users and households seeking powerful cooling during intensifying summers.
RR Kabel executive director Mahhesh Kabra said, “Our expansion into kitchen appliances allows us to connect with consumers at more touchpoints in their daily lives, while our expanded air cooler range addresses the rising need for effective cooling solutions. These launches reflect our continued focus on quality, innovation, and market relevance.”
By stepping into kitchen appliances and enhancing its cooling solutions, RR Kabel is wiring itself more deeply into Indian homes proving that even a cables company knows how to heat things up in the kitchen and keep things cool elsewhere. The move positions the brand for broader growth as it evolves from wires to a more complete home solutions player.
