MAM
ZenithOptimedia is BBC Worldwide’s media partner
MUMBAI: BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of UK pubcaster the BBC, has appointed ZenithOptimedia as its sole global media agency to deliver media buying and planning for the UK and international markets.
ZenithOptimedia will deliver media campaigns around BBC Worldwide’s key brands such as Top Gear, BBC America, BBC Knowledge, Planet Earth and Doctor Who.
The appointment of ZenithOptimedia as the sole global agency is part of BBC Worldwide’s ongoing strategy to reduce its volume of suppliers and develop high-quality marketing campaigns to drive significant growth outside the UK.
BBC Worldwide global director of marketing Helen Kellie says, “We are delighted to appoint ZenithOptimedia as our new global agency.
“Through this partnership we aim to focus on building greater awareness, presence and revenues for the BBC and our unique portfolio of brands around the world.”
ZenithOptimedia International business development director Nico Guiridlian said, “We are really looking forward to working with BBC Worldwide to build effective marketing campaigns around the world.”
MAM
Tata Communications CEO A S Lakshminarayanan retires
Seasoned leader hands over reins after guiding the company through key growth years.
MUMBAI: Tata Communications is turning a new page and this time, the chapter is being written by a fresh voice from the same trusted book. The company has announced the retirement of its managing director and chief executive officer, A S Lakshminarayanan, effective at the close of business on 13 April 2026. Lakshminarayanan’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the company’s leadership journey.
The board expressed appreciation for his contributions during his tenure, acknowledging the role he played in shaping the organisation. In January 2026, the board had already appointed Ganesh Lakshminarayanan as managing director and CEO (Designate), ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
Ganesh Lakshminarayanan brings over three decades of experience across domestic and global enterprises. He currently serves as Managing Director and Group Vice President at ServiceNow India, where he has focused on driving enterprise adoption of AI-led digital transformation and strengthening go-to-market capabilities. Prior to this, he led Bharti Airtel’s enterprise business as CEO of Airtel Business and earlier headed its Enterprise division. His career also includes roles as Chief Operating Officer at Capillary Technologies, along with advisory positions at Ernst & Young and Sequoia Capital.
The transition reflects Tata Communications’ focus on continuity while bringing in fresh perspectives to navigate the rapidly evolving digital infrastructure landscape.
In the fast-moving world of global communications, leadership changes are like well-timed signal switches necessary to keep the network strong and the journey smooth. As A S Lakshminarayanan steps down, Ganesh Lakshminarayanan steps up, ready to carry forward the legacy while steering the company into its next phase of growth.
