MxMIndia

Category: Ad Agencies

  • To strengthen its digital, performance and integrated solutions

    Havas acquires digital marketing agency Pivotroots

    By Our Staff

     

    Havas has announced the acquisition of PivotRoots, a digital marketing and communications agency. The acquisition will allow Havas Media India to tap into PivotRoots’ deep understanding of the Indian market and enhance its capabilities in the rapidly growing digital advertising space.

     

    Said Yannick Bolloré, Chairman of Vivendi, and Chairman & CEO of Havas: “We are thrilled to welcome PivotRoots to the Havas family,” “The acquisition is part of our broader strategy to expand our presence in lighthouse markets around the world. With a global network that spans over 100 countries, Havas is well-positioned to help clients reach audiences wherever they are.”

     

    Added Shibu Shivanandan, Founder and Managing Director, PivotRoots: “We are excited to be part of Havas Media India. We share a common vision for the future of advertising, and by combining our expertise and talent we can deliver better solutions, services and results to our clients. We are proud of what we have achieved at PivotRoots so far, and we look forward to the next chapter in our journey.”

     

    Said Rana Barua, CEO, Havas India: “I’m delighted to welcome Shibu and the PivotRoots team to the Havas Family. This acquisition comes at an extremely interesting time for Havas India, which has undergone a complete transformation in recent years and has seen unprecedented growth and success. The addition of PivotRoots and their capabilities, advanced analytics and technology, and a new perspective on creativity and innovation distinguishes Havas Media India in the industry in meeting the evolving needs of its clients and succeeding in an increasingly competitive and extremely dynamic market.”

     

  • To 'Redefine Media' growth story of the agency

    Carat appoints Sanchayeeta Verma as CEO India

    By Our Staff

     

    Sanchayeeta Verma
    Sanchayeeta Verma

    Carat India, the media agency from the house of Dentsu, has announced the appointment of Sanchayeeta Verma as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). She will report to Anita Kotwani, CEO Media, South Asia, Dentsu. She will lead new business opportunities, and nurture existing client relationships through operational excellence, becoming a trusted partner for clients. Verma will work in alignment with the network’s global brand proposition, further enhancing the revenue streams in India.

     

    Anita Kotwani
    Anita Kotwani

    Commenting on Verma’s appointment, Anita Kotwani, CEO Media, South Asia, Dentsu said: “The network’s focus on strengthening our media businesses aligns with our global ambition. Getting the best people on board is, therefore, very critical. Sanchayeeta’s ethos and the value systems that drive Carat are inextricably linked. Her varied expertise in consumer research, business planning, and client leadership has kept her abreast of the shifting media landscape. She is also dedicated to lifelong learning and staying ahead of the curve, making her an ideal candidate for this position. Carat has increased its scope over the recent year with notable wins such as Tata Neu, Tata Croma, Hero Vida, Times Pro, and others. Sanchayeeta will accelerate expansion and propel the Carat brand to the forefront of the Indian market.”

     

  • A 6-month internship programme and career development opportunities

    Havas India flags off Havas Spark 3.0

    By Our Staff

     

    Havas India has flagged off the third edition of its flagship internship programme, Havas Spark. Launched in 2021, the programme set the bar high in terms of interest from applicants and outcomes as evidenced by the number of interns hired, which was 16 and 22 in 2021 and 2022 respectively. This year, the initiative aims to onboard 20 interns, putting greater emphasis on the specifics and rigour that each role brings, while simultaneously providing more opportunities for interns to work in tandem with the senior leadership team across the network’s various agencies & divisions.

     

    Rana Barua, Group CEO, Havas India, said: “Havas Spark has become a standout program in our network and the industry. It embodies our commitment to making meaningful contributions to the community and advertising world. It has now become the definitive standard for nurturing and introducing new talent nationwide. This ensures that our legacy and future are in capable hands, as we not only build a successful business but also empower these young minds to become tomorrow’s leaders.”

     

    Vandana Tilwani, Group CHRO, Havas India, added: “I am extremely excited to launch Havas Spark 3.0. This year’s edition has been meticulously crafted to provide our interns with the best possible exposure to the industry and familiarity with its working methods. By the time they graduate, we will already have a team capable of showcasing their finest abilities. Our structured and practical approach ensures that the interns will be the best-in-class in the industry. Interns from our previous batches are now firmly rooted in the Havas India ecosystem, and we are looking forward to the new pool of candidates to once again embark on this rewarding journey together.”

     

  • To offer advanced strategic and creative services

    Lowe Lintas launches Lowe Lintas DX

    By Our Staff

     

    Lowe Lintas has launched Lowe Lintas DX, a digital creative unit, offering advanced strategic and creative services specifically designed for long-term brand building in the digital spheres.

     

    Said Arun Srinivas, Director and Head of Ads Business for Meta in India: “With digital emerging as one the biggest advertising medium in the country, there is a strong need to create new standards of brand building and advertising on digital platforms. Lowe Lintas DX has the potential to become an industry-leading hub of excellence, delivering strong business outcomes for brands that work with both Lowe Lintas and Meta. I am excited to deepen our support with MullenLowe Lintas Group and look forward to some path-breaking work with the team.”

     

    Added Subbu, Group CEO of MullenLowe Lintas Group & Chief Strategy Officer – APAC, MullenLowe Global: “Lowe Lintas DX, a game-changing offering from Lowe Lintas, strategically supported by Meta, is a living system for building brands in a futuristic way. In a rapidly accelerating digital-led marketplace that is characterised by data-driven technologies, our collaboration will explore constantly deepening experiences and smart growth ideas for brands that go far beyond the traditional methods giving businesses unceasing velocity and a competitive leg up. With this collaborative advantage, we are very confident it will enhance learning and possibilities, creating value for everyone in the play – the consumers, our brands, clients, Meta, and us.”

     

  • To spearhead creative excellence

    Dentsu Creative appoints Surjo Dutt as the CCO for W&S regions

    By Our Staff

     

    Dentsu Creative India has appointed Surjo Dutt as Chief Creative Officer (CCO) for the West & South regions.

     

    As per the mandate, Dutt will spearhead creative excellence at Dentsu Creative India, leading the charge in aligning with the agency’s global vision.

     

    Commenting on the appointment, Amit Wadhwa said: “I am delighted to welcome Surjo as our creative partner on this exciting journey at Dentsu Creative India. Having previously worked alongside Surjo, I am well aware of his incredible talent for building powerful brands – a quality he has consistently demonstrated across every project he has been involved in. His seamless grasp of strategic contributions and deep understanding of the contemporary media landscape make him the ideal candidate to embody our philosophy of ‘Modern Creativity’. I firmly believe that together we will produce work that will leave a lasting mark in the industry.”

     

  • TVC created by Ogilvy

    Eveready unveils campaign for its Rechargeable Torch Range

    By Our Staff

     

    Eveready Industries, battery and lighting products manufacturers, has rolled out a TVC, ‘Hero Banne Ka Power’ to launch Boomlite DL 85 rechargeable torch. The TVC shines light on the unsung bravery of our people and celebrates courageous deeds, because not all heroes wear capes – some carry torches

     

    Said Anirban Banerjee, Sr. Vice President & SBU Head (Batteries & Flashlights), Eveready Industries India Ltd.: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of Eveready Boomlite DL 85 rechargeable torch alongside a captivating TVC, ‘Hero Banne Ka Power’. This torch embodies Eveready’s dedication to offer innovative and versatile products to our valued customers. With its exceptional performance, we believe this torch will not only illuminate dark spaces but also ignite a spark within individuals, empowering them to embrace their inner strength and become the true heroes of their own narratives.”

     

    Added Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy: “Darkness is not to be feared. It is to be fought and defeated. That’s what most Indians know and do on a regular basis. They dispel the darkness in their own way, armed with resilience and resourcefulness. This new campaign is a celebration of the human spirit, of the never-say-never attitude. Anyone can be a hero. All one needs is power. That’s what Eveready offers. We hope this campaign will serve as a beacon of inspiration for those everyday heroes who make the world a better place.”

     

  • To oversee Integrated buying in the North and East markets

    Havas Media appoints Ramsai Panchapakesan as Managing Partner- Investments

    By Our Staff

     

    In a strategic move to bolster its investment strategies, Havas Media Network India has appointed Ramsai Panchapakesan as Managing Partner- Investments. Based out of Gurugram, he will oversee Integrated buying in the North and East markets, along with assuming additional responsibilities for Trading.

     

    Commenting on Ramsai’s appointment, Mohit Joshi, CEO, Havas Media Network India, said: “The current momentum at the media network in India is remarkable, with new client wins, large acquisitions, and widespread expansion. As we strengthen our teams across verticals to deliver best business solutions, Ramsai’s appointment reinforces our vision and commitment to our clients. His extensive industry experience equips him with a valuable wealth of knowledge and expertise. With him on board, we further scale up and strengthen our media investments and optimize trading and partnership initiatives to create meaningful media solutions.”

     

    R Venkatsubramanian, President – Investments, Havas Media India, and MD, Havas Play, added, “These are exciting times to be driving investment and partnership strategies in the media industry, and I am thrilled to have Ramsai join the team. His expertise and deep understanding of industry nuances will unveil remarkable opportunities for us to showcase the agency’s prowess and forge strategic partnerships that drive unparalleled success for Havas Media India. I am confident that, together with our talented team, we will achieve remarkable results and deliver exceptional value to our esteemed clients.”

     

  • To concentrate on empowering clients through media campaigns

    Dentsu X appoints Jose Leon as CEO

    By Our Staff

     

    Dentsu X, the media agency from dentsu India, has announced the appointment of Jose Leon as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He will report to Anita Kotwani, CEO Media, South Asia, Dentsu.

     

    Based out of Dentsu’s Gurugram office, Jose will concentrate on empowering clients through media campaigns that create excellent consumer experiences, bringing about a big transformation in society, and strengthening their businesses to increase their top-line numbers.

     

    Commenting on the appointment, Anita Kotwani said: “Dentsu, as a network, is driven by forward-thinking tech-enabled practices. Our belief in offering disruptive, cutting-edge solutions keeps us ahead in the ecosystem. We take immense pride in bringing extraordinary talents on board for this journey. Jose is one of the leaders with the right balance of technology and media acumen. His expertise is a great fit for dentsu X’s vision of building valuable experiences for consumers, beyond simple media exposure. I look forward to partnering with him in this marathon ahead. A warm welcome to our dentsu network, Jose, and best wishes for the journey ahead.”

     

  • To help build brand

    W+K  appointed AOR for Casio G-Shock watches

    By Our Staff

     

    Wieden & Kennedy India has been appointed the Creative Agency on Record (AOR) for G-Shock watch brand in India.

     

    The agency’s understanding of the Indian market, combined with its ability to craft compelling brand narratives, made it the ideal choice for fulfilling G-Shock’s creative needs.

     

    Said Shreekant, Head of Delhi Office at Wieden & Kennedy India: “At W+K, we try to design work that makes cultural inroads for our brands, making them an organic part of consumer conversations. A cult brand like G-Shock was built for this kind of work and we can’t wait to get started!”

     

    Added  xHideki Imai, Managing Director at Casio India: “We are delighted to join forces with Wieden & Kennedy India as our Creative Agency on Record. Their creative prowess and strategic insights make them the ideal partner to help us connect with our Indian consumers in meaningful ways. We are confident that this collaboration will enable us to further strengthen G-SHOCK’s position as the go-to brand for individuals seeking unmatched toughness and style.”

     

  • As Head of Non-Biddable GroupM Nexus India

    GroupM appoints Saif Shaikh

    By Our Staff

     

    GroupM, WPP’s media investment group appoints Saif Shaikh as the Head of Non-Biddable at GroupM Nexus India. He takes over from Sidhartha Patnaik, who has assumed a regional remit as Head of Non-Biddable at GroupM Nexus APAC.

     

    In his new role at GroupM Nexus, Shaikh will focus on the long-term prioritization of campaign implementation leveraging cutting-edge tools and software for media planning and data management, and providing media activation solutions to clients. His extensive knowledge and strategic insights will contribute significantly to the growth and success of GroupM Nexus in India.

     

    Priti Murthy, President at GroupM Nexus India said: “Saif’s extensive experience in deployment of tools and software for media strategizing, planning and data management along with driving implementation will further strengthen the way we do media planning at GroupM Nexus India. I look forward to his contribution in elevating our non-biddable craft and embedding additional capabilities across GroupM agencies’ client activations.”

     

    Saif Shaikh, Head of Non-Biddable at GroupM Nexus India added: “I am thrilled and honored to take on this new role. India’s diverse and rapidly evolving market presents immense opportunities, and I am eager to leverage my experience and expertise to drive growth and innovation for GroupM Nexus. It’s an enormous privilege to be part of the world’s largest performance organisation and I look forward to delivering incremental growth for our agencies and clients. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to collaborating with our talented team and valued partners.”

     

  • The new unit, titled Reels Room, will target consumers on Instagram and Facebook

    The Script Room launches Reels Room

    By Our Staff

     

    Creative agency The Script Room has announced its new offering, Reels Room. Reels Room will offer its services in collaboration with Bad Donkey Small Wall, an independent creative & production company.

     

    Said Shiv Parameshwaran, founder of Bad Donkey Small Wall: “It’s exciting to see the potential of exploring films in the vertical dimension, especially with the growing mobile-first audience. Watching horizontal videos on locked phone orientations remains a struggle, while vertical videos boast higher watch completion rates. Therefore, we felt there is a need to get brands excited about thinking and shooting for vertical screens rather than adapting the horizontal videos. After months of catch ups and jam sessions, I couldn’t be happier to see this venture taking off, unlocking a new realm of creativity and connection.”

     

    Added Rajesh Ramaswamy, Founder of Script Room: “Shiv is one of the best creative minds in the industry and a new age film maker with an eclectic range of work. We have been collaborating on various projects and I’m super glad that we are finally launching Reels Room in partnership with him. Ahsan is a rare combination of creative & business. With over ten years of advertising experience and being Associate Director with Anupam Mishra and Sonam Nair, he’s like super-suited for this new venture. Between Ahsan, Namrata, Alex, Ariana and a powerhouse talent like Shiv, we’re looking forward to putting out some good stuff very soon.”

     

  • Spotify will be the first audio platform to be integrated directly into WPP's products and solutions

    WPP inks partnership with Spotify

    By Our Staff

     

    WPP and Spotify have  announced a new global strategic partnership that will enable WPP to offer its clients early access to Spotify’s  ad products, first-party insights and creative ways to reach engaged audiences at scale.

     

    Said Stephan Pretorius, Chief Technology Officer of WPP: “In the fast-evolving media and entertainment landscape, audio streaming has become an integral part of everyday life. At WPP, we recognise the power of audio as a critical component of marketing. The intent of this first-of-its-kind partnership is to integrate Spotify’s insights with the Choreograph platform to create more innovative and relevant ways to connect our clients with their customers.”

     

    Added Brian Berner, Global Head of Advertising Sales, Spotify: “We’ve long partnered with WPP to enable agency planners and buyers to make more informed decisions when planning for digital audio. With our new global partnership, we’re helping WPP clients modernise their strategy and planning. More than 550 million people across 184 markets come to Spotify every month to be entertained, to learn and to discover for nearly 2.5 hours each day. As we continue to drive innovation in audio and the advertising industry at large, partners like WPP are critical to delivering for advertisers, creators and audiences wherever they are.”