https://theprpost.com/post/8788/

Impacting 30 crore lives: Hitesh Raj Bhagat's communications strategy

We are in a new era of Public Relations. In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has undergone a sea change. More brands and clients, especially from the leadership teams, are viewing Public Relations from a close range. The industry has undergone a radical change with the advent of social media, which has to a large extent changed the approach to Public Relations. We have a relatively new and young audience that we need to face in the coming years so there are bigger challenges for brands and PR practitioners, who have to be more agile and proactive in their thinking to draw up business solutions for clients.In our exclusive weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully interacts with leading business leaders to gain their exclusive views and insights on various trends in the PR and communications industry.In an exclusive conversation with Adgully, Hitesh Raj Bhagat, Global Head of Corporate Communications at Truecaller, discusses his motivations for transitioning into corporate communications at the company. He elaborates on how Truecaller prepares for and manages potential communication crises, the strategies used to engage users. Bhagat also emphasizes on the role of internal communication in aligning Truecaller’s employees with the company’s goals and values.Additionally, he shares insights on managing communication with external partners, stakeholders, and media, as well as how corporate communications are evolving in the tech industry.After spending nearly a decade in technology journalism, what motivated you to transition into corporate communications at Truecaller?Having spent over 17 years in technology journalism, I developed a deep passion for the tech industry and storytelling. Truecaller as a company always caught my attention, and I closely followed it due to its innovative approach and the significant impact it had on my life personally. When the opportunity arose to be part of a brand that was making a real difference in people’s lives, I jumped at it. Today, I am proud to be in a role that allows me to shape the communication strategy of a company that is an essential part of the daily lives of over 30 crore Indians.My journey in journalism equipped me with the skills to craft engaging narratives, so transitioning to corporate communications at Truecaller felt like a natural progression, allowing me to apply those skills in a new and impactful way.How has your experience at The Economic Times and CyberMedia shaped your approach to corporate communications, especially in conveying technical information to a broader audience?My experience at The Economic Times and CyberMedia provided a strong foundation for simplifying complex technical concepts for a wider audience. As a technology journalist, I was often tasked with taking highly specialised, jargon-heavy information and translating it into engaging content that could inform readers from all walks of life. Being responsible for the Personal Technology sections at The Economic Times, I covered various topics, from emerging technologies to product launches and industry trends. This role taught me the importance of clear, concise messaging, ensuring that a diverse readership could understand and appreciate even intricate advancements in fields like AI, camera technologies, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.At Truecaller, I apply the same principles. I prioritise simplicity and clarity in messaging, ensuring our communication resonates with technical experts and everyday users. Whether discussing advanced features like AI-driven spam detection or providing updates on privacy and security initiatives, the goal is always to make the message accessible and engaging.In an era where misinformation can spread quickly, how does Truecaller prepare for and manage potential communication crises? Could you provide an example of a situation you’ve navigated successfully?In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, Truecaller is keenly aware of the risks of misinformation. People are now more concerned about where their data is being stored and how it is being used, and rightly so! Everyone who uses any digital service should be well aware of their digital rights and all the controls available to them – and they should ask the services/ apps they use about these things.In our case, a crisis occurs when someone with influence spreads misinformation without knowing the facts or without contacting us for clarifications. To proactively manage this, we emphasise transparency and open communication, which are foundational to building and maintaining trust with our stakeholders, including media friends, our consumers, internally with colleagues and investors.We are committed to addressing issues promptly by providing accurate information. This helps us dispel misinformation before it escalates, ensuring our stakeholders are always well-informed and knowledgeable. Our strategy involves regular monitoring of conversations across platforms, which ensures that we are always aware of potential issues. This, along with timely responses to concerns and clear messaging on sensitive topics like privacy, data security, and app functionality, provides a sense of security to our stakeholders.What strategies do you employ to engage users through communication, and how do you measure the effectiveness of these strategies?At Truecaller, our communication strategy is designed to stay aligned with emerging trends and user needs. We carefully plan our message timings, whether introducing new features, responding to industry changes or alerting our users about new market scams. Depending on the nature of the product, we test a feature in one market first before expanding globally. We leverage various tools and strategies, from targeted messaging to data-driven campaigns, and often collaborate with external agencies to enhance our outreach. To measure effectiveness, we closely monitor engagement metrics, user feedback, and market response, allowing us to refine our approach continuously.What role does internal communication play in aligning Truecaller employees with the company’s goals and values, and how do you foster a culture of open communication within the organisation? Additionally, how do you manage communication with external partners, stakeholders, and media to strengthen Truecaller’s brand image and community presence?At Truecaller, our internal communication strategy is not just a tool, but a reflection of our commitment to transparency and trust. It is essential to align our colleagues with the company’s goals and values, just as in our external communications.We are committed to clear and open communication with our consumers, media friends, and stakeholders. This includes explaining how the app functions, how we generate revenue, and addressing critical issues like app permissions. We consistently respond to all questions, including those related to privacy, data safety, and security.Truecaller is also one of the few apps that offer users complete, granular control over their privacy and data directly within the app, further enhancing trust and transparency.What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you use to assess the effectiveness of your corporate communication efforts, and how do you adjust strategies based on these insights?Apart from the usual number of targets for measuring our campaigns’ success, we also measure effectiveness by directly speaking with relevant stakeholders like media and consumers (through the official Truecaller community ‘TrueTalks’, via social media, or our support channels). The message has to have both high reach and retention.How does Truecaller incorporate user feedback into its communication strategies, and what processes do you have in place to respond to user concerns or suggestions effectively?At Truecaller, we prioritise user feedback and incorporate it into our communication strategies through active engagement on platforms like the TrueTalks community and X (formerly Twitter). We regularly monitor these channels to understand user needs and gather insights directly influencing feature development. Many of our key features, such as Call Reason, Spam Statistics, Inbox Cleaner, advanced spam blocking tools (such as the ability to completely block calls from a certain country or block a number series) and many of the privacy tools, were developed directly in response to consumer requests.To address user concerns and suggestions, we have established processes that ensure timely responses. We also prioritise transparency in our communications, informing users about product updates, addressing their questions, and clarifying any issues. This collaborative approach enables us to build a user-centric platform and maintain strong relationships with our community.How do you foresee the role of corporate communications evolving in the tech industry, and what challenges do you anticipate for Truecaller in this regard?Technology has transformed the communications landscape. There will be much higher use of generative AI – which is both a boon and a curse. Faster means of communication demand a real-time response from us. And we have to be monitoring and handling situations that can lead to potential crises.The positive aspect of fast technology is the medium that allows us to connect and communicate with our audiences at any given moment, be it through emails, messaging, social media platforms, or other means. At the same time, the flip side is the misinformation that spreads and affects brands and individuals alike.
https://theprpost.com/post/8798/

Stratzy taps Confiance Communications for  PR push

Confiance Communications, an integrated communications agency renowned for its expertise in brand-building across genres and scales, has acquired the PR mandate for Stratzy, a SEBI-registered investment advisory platform.Founded in 2021 by Mohit Bhandari and Gaurav Sangle, Stratzy is empowering India’s next-generation investors with a tech-first approach, transforming how they approach capital markets. The platform leverages its proprietary technology —developed with years of research—to deploy data-driven, quantitative strategies that democratise investing and simplify wealth creation for retail investors. It has attracted over 4 lac sign-ups since its launch, and currently serves around 35,000 monthly active users, facilitating trading volumes over Rs 1000 crore. Confiance Communications will leverage its deep comprehension of the fintech and startup ecosystem to develop Stratzy’s communication strategy. This includes crafting a resilient PR framework, streamlining Stratzy’s brand messaging, and fostering strategic media relations. The primary objective of this collaboration is to build a robust narrative for Stratzy in the retail investment landscape, thereby enabling time- and expertise-constrained retail investors to employ enterprise-grade tech tools for optimised returns.Speaking on the partnership, Bushra Ismail, Founder & Chief Strategist, Confiance Communications, said, “We're pleased to partner with Mohit and Gaurav in their journey to make retail investing more accessible and intuitive. With its proprietary technology for quant-driven investing—something traditionally used by seasoned fund managers to maximise returns—Stratzy is poised to be a game-changer for retail investors. As its communications partner, we strive to enhance the visibility of its investment solutions and bring their transformative impact to the forefront.” Mohit Bhandari, Co-founder and CEO of Stratzy, commented, “Our collaboration with Confiance comes at a time when Stratzy is scaling rapidly. As we work to revolutionise the investment landscape in India, we believe Confiance’s experience in the startup and financial ecosystem will be instrumental in helping us amplify our brand voice and establish a stronger connection with retail investors and other business stakeholders alike.” Founded by seasoned publicist Bushra Ismail in 2019, Confiance Communications has established a strong foothold as one of India's most reliable and outcome-driven PR agencies, particularly within the startup and venture capital ecosystems. The agency has an exceptional track record of catapulting the media and digital presence of over 80 organisations in India and abroad. Confiance's esteemed clientele includes notable brands like The Quorum Club, Leo Capital, Turkiye Tourism, Salad Days, Transition VC, Bureau ID, PlanetSpark, ProcMart, and Khyaal, among other distinguished names.
https://theprpost.com/post/8800/

Orchestra expands with Acquisition of Small Girls PR

Orchestra, the communications group behind agencies like Derris and BerlinRosen, has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Small Girls PR. While the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, Small Girls PR, known for its expertise in influencer and experiential marketing as well as traditional earned media, boasts an impressive client roster that includes brands such as Billie, Olay (a P&G-owned skincare line), and workwear retailer M.M.LaFleur. Headquartered in New York City and Los Angeles, the agency has a team of 75 employees.Mallory Blair, who co-founded Small Girls PR in 2010, will continue to lead the agency as CEO and will also take on the role of partner at Orchestra.Orchestra, founded in 2022 following BerlinRosen's acquisition of Derris, rebranded from BerlinRosen Holdings earlier this year. With this latest addition, Orchestra now owns 10 agencies, having acquired eight since 2022. The firm has built a reputation as a leader in PR for direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands like Everlane, Glossier, and Warby Parker.This acquisition reflects a growing trend of consolidation in the fashion PR industry. Fashion communications company The Independents has added five agencies to its portfolio in 2024, including The Sunshine Company, Bureau Béatrice, and Kitten Production. Meanwhile, The Lede Company acquired OBCM last year, showcasing a movement towards larger, more competitive PR conglomerates.
https://theprpost.com/post/8784/

Edelman elevates Anthony Chelvanathan to Global Creative Partner

Edelman has promoted Anthony Chelvanathan to Global Creative Partner. As Edelman’s first ever Global Creative Partner, Chelvanathan will work alongside Global Chief Creative Officer Judy John, driving creative excellence across the firm’s top clients and greatest opportunities. He retains his Chief Creative Officer role for Edelman Canada.“The importance of creative excellence has never been greater. As generative AI leads to more and more content flooding the feeds, earning attention in culture has become critical for brands and companies,” says Judy John. “Edelman’s creative offering was built for this moment – we know the power of creativity in earning a brand’s place in culture and solidifying its reputation. And with the incredible talent of Anthony Chelvanathan as Global Creative Partner we will continue to elevate our work for clients across the globe.”Partnering with regional CCOs, Global ECDs and client teams, Chelvanathan will accelerate creative excellence across the business, focused on driving consistency of creative standards and elevation of the firm’s work. In his nearly four years with Edelman, Anthony has helped teams focus on excellence in idea, execution and craft, leading to some of the agency’s most recognized work that drive change for both business and society including IKEA’s SHT Tax campaign, Allegra Airways and Dove #KeepTheGrey.“Being appointed to this role is very humbling and I’m honoured to be championing idea-driven work that pushes our clients’ business goals forward at an agency that understands the power of creativity in culture,” says Chelvanathan. “I believe in the power of helping people be the best at what they do. This journey is proof that with the right combination of passion, hard-work, opportunity, and awesome people around you, nothing can stop you from getting to where you want to be. Even if your journey begins as a small Sri Lankan immigrant kid with big dreams.”This announcement follows a stunning creative year for Edelman highlighted by its performance at the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, being named the Independent Agency of the Year on the Good Track, ranking second place for Independent Network of the Year and earning the firm's first Titanium Lion win, for DP World Move to -15.Chelvanthan has begun his new role effectively immediately, reporting to Judy John.
https://theprpost.com/post/8794/

Media Mantra Group expands global footprint with new Dubai office

Media Mantra Group (MM Group), one of India's leading independent PR and integrated communications conglomerates, has announced the opening of its first international office in Dubai.This strategic expansion into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region marks a pivotal step in MM Group's journey to broaden its global reach and offer cutting-edge communication services to a diverse clientele.Over the past decade, Media Mantra Group has emerged as a powerhouse in India's competitive PR industry. Headquartered in Gurugram, with additional offices in Bangalore and Mumbai, the company boasts a team of 150 talented professionals. The Dubai office not only represents a new chapter for MM Group but also aligns with its goal of meeting the growing demand for sophisticated communication solutions in the MENA region.Commenting on the expansion, Udit Pathak, Founder Director of Media Mantra Group, said: "Expanding into Dubai is a significant moment for the Media Mantra Group. For over a decade, we’ve pushed the boundaries of strategic communications in India, and now we’re ready to bring that expertise to this part of the world. I'm confident that this new chapter will enable us to foster even stronger relationships with global clients and partners. It’s a proud step forward for our team, and we look forward to doing path-breaking work in the MENA region."Dubai's dynamic business environment and its role as a global hub for trade, media, and commerce made it the ideal location for MM Group’s first overseas office. The Dubai branch will serve as a central hub for businesses across the MENA region, offering bespoke public relations, media relations, and integrated communications services tailored to regional needs.Pooja Pathak, Founder Director of Media Mantra Group, added: "The decision to establish a presence in Dubai comes from our desire to strengthen the services we provide to clients, especially those with a global outlook. As an organisation, we’ve always placed a premium on understanding cultural nuances and market dynamics, and this new office allows us to do that on a broader scale. We look forward to offering our unique blend of creative and data-driven communications to clients in this exciting market."This international expansion comes on the heels of several accolades for Media Mantra Group. The company was recently ranked as the third-fastest growing PR agency in AMEA (Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) by PRovoke Media’s Global PR Agency Rankings 2024, and it previously earned the title of the second-fastest growing PR firm in the Asia Pacific and ninth-fastest globally.As MM Group continues to expand its global footprint, it remains committed to leveraging its communication expertise to foster meaningful connections and drive positive social impact. The Dubai office will play a key role in advancing the company’s vision of becoming a global leader in the PR and communications industry, underpinned by its ethos of ABCs (Aggressive, Bold & Credible).
https://theprpost.com/post/8781/

MSL Group Middle East appoints Nadin Al-Alami as Business Lead for Saudi Arabia

MSL Group Middle East, a prominent communications and PR agency within Publicis Groupe Middle East, has appointed Nadin Al-Alami as Business Lead for its Saudi Arabian operations. This move highlights MSL’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Kingdom, where the team has experienced significant growth, tripling in size over the past year.In her new role, Nadin will lead the agency’s efforts to drive growth, foster client relationships, and pursue new business opportunities in the Saudi market. Her interdisciplinary leadership experience will be critical in advancing Publicis Groupe’s ‘Power of One’ model, which integrates the company’s diverse capabilities to deliver comprehensive client solutions.MacLean Brodie, CEO of MSL ME, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating: “I’m thrilled to welcome Nadin to lead our Saudi team. Her leadership, energy, and regional expertise are exactly what we need to continue growing in this dynamic market. Nadin's deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our clients will help us tell their stories at this pivotal time.”Nadin Al-Alami brings over 20 years of experience in the GCC region, having held leadership roles at top agencies such as ASDA’A Burson Marsteller, Wunderman Thompson, and most recently Horizon FCB, where she served as Managing Director. Her expertise spans a wide array of industries including financial services, healthcare, real estate, consumer goods, and sports. Nadin is widely recognized for her ability to craft and execute strategic omnichannel marketing campaigns that create meaningful customer experiences.Commenting on her new role, Nadin said: "I’m excited to join MSL KSA and look forward to driving innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. Our goal is to strengthen partnerships and leverage the vast capabilities within Publicis Groupe to ensure long-term success in this fast-growing market.”Nadin’s track record of building strong relationships with key stakeholders, media, and influencers has earned her a reputation as a respected industry leader, known for delivering impactful communications strategies that align with both client and company objectives.
https://theprpost.com/post/8765/

Mythily Nair's approach on storytelling in healthcare

In our latest edition of our PR ACE column, spotlighting young PR leaders, we feature Mythily Nair, VP of Communications at UE LifeSciences. She shares communication strategies implemented to raise awareness about the company's mission and the unique challenges of discussing medical devices and cancer detection. Nair reflects on how her agency background has shaped her approach and recounts her experience navigating a communication crisis, including lessons learned. She also discusses anticipated trends in the medical devices industry regarding communication and branding, as well as balancing business results with creative branding and communication efforts, and more. UE LifeSciences is known for its innovative approach to early cancer detection. Can you share how the company differentiates itself in this critical space and what communication strategies you have implemented to raise awareness about UE LifeSciences and its mission?UE LifeSciences has been in the early detection game for well over 16 years. We operate like a startup, and have the mindset, the hustle and most importantly, an uncomplicated way of going about things. It’s simple- cancer sucks. We can quite clearly see a catastrophe coming our way. Our founders spent a long time developing, implementing, and testing these solutions, and have had immense success in the B2G and B2B spaces. I think our approach in going patient access and comfort first, is what sets us apart from our competitors- we always wanted to ensure that the device reached the women, and that it wasn’t the other way around. To ensure that this is effectively communicated, we’ve gone for a three-pronged approach- one, to maintain our very grassroots-level approach where screening camps and ensure coverage in vernacular newspapers; second, to plan the positioning of senior leadership as key opinion leaders in English dailies; and finally, trying new and innovative approaches partnering with docuseries houses like BBC Storyworks. We have some exciting projects coming up, so stay tuned! What unique challenges do you face when communicating about medical devices and cancer detection, and how do you overcome them?So many! For starters, there’s an immense gap in REALLY educating the population about breast cancer. In the decades past, campaigns to associate the pink ribbon with Breast Cancer Awareness Day have succeeded in making pink synonymous with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Monuments light up around the world, but what do folks know about incidence rates? About chances of survival, if you find it early? About the current legislative conversations happening around the world surrounding breast tissue density? Most folks (including myself, until a few months ago) don’t know about Triple Negative breast cancer, one of the deadliest types. Breast cancer awareness, unfortunately, has been packaged and sealed into a really pretty CSR project for large firms to spend their budgets on. But to say you support Breast Cancer Awareness Month is one thing- but you don’t educate or help the populations around you know what they need to do. With medical devices, the problem is twofold. You want to explain the technology in a way that highlights the innovation, but also simplifies it for all audiences, regardless of their background. For both issues, we’ve found that the easiest way to tackle it, is simplify and story tell. Explaining breast cancer awareness sessions in vernacular languages, with simple imagery, or a treatment protocol interactively, with storytelling. We believe in telling universal stories that highlight a sense of community, and that when women feel a sense of community, they take everyone forward with them. Having experience in both agency and in-house roles, how do you think your agency background has influenced your approach to communications at UE LifeSciences?Agency shapes work ethic. With agency life, you had no time to get attached to a project or a pitch. If something doesn’t work, you have to scrap it and move on to turn something around. I think that approach is what I’ve brought with me to UE LifeSciences- I remember telling my bosses early on that I will come up with ideas, we will try things out- if it works and you like it, great. If it doesn’t, we scrap it and try again. All I asked for was the freedom to try and to experiment. I’m really grateful that they’ve trusted me with the same. Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a communication crisis? What did you learn from that situation? What trends do you foresee in the medical devices industry, particularly in communication and branding, over the next few years?I think medical devices will have an overhaul in terms of communications and branding, leaning towards more transparent, consumer centric communications. With Millennials slowly becoming more financially stable, considering that they were the first of the internet generations, they are more media literate, and they will ask critical questions around efficacy, access and affordability, demanding transparency. It’s an exciting time! What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to build a career in communications and branding?Learn around it! I’m fairly green myself, but I’ve always relied on my understanding of areas around communications (like sociology, politics, economics) to inform my communications and branding strategy. It’s important to be well informed in today’s world, so having a well-rounded perspective of why one strategy may work can ensure a holistic lens is applied when you pitch a campaign! How do you balance the need for business results with the creative aspects of branding and communication?That’s a tough one. I generally to take a call in tandem with my founders and the needs they have operationally, but most of the time, I balance it by focusing on any pressing events or announcements we have in the next 6 months, and work backwards, allocating priority/importance to each event, and taking a call from there. I believe there’s merit to a slow-burning brand building exercise. Can you share an experience where you had to navigate a communication crisis? What did you learn from that situation?Navigating a communications crisis is never easy. But from the ones I’ve experienced, here are a few valuable pieces of advice I’ve picked up in my time. In the event of a communications crisis, maintaining composure and strategic action are paramount. Based on experience, I recommend the following approach: Assessment and Strategy: Before initiating any external communication, take time to gather all relevant information and assess the situation's scope and severity. Develop a clear plan of action that can be communicated internally and externally. Accountability and Transparency: Prepare a preliminary statement acknowledging the issue directly and transparently. This demonstrates accountability and a commitment to addressing the situation. While working on a more comprehensive response, this initial statement can help manage immediate public perception. Remember, a well-managed crisis response can strengthen brand trust and reputation in the long run.
https://theprpost.com/post/8775/

Dentsu elevates Anindita Sarkar to VP, Brand & Communications, South Asia

Dentsu has promoted Anindita Sarkar from Senior Director of Corporate Communications to Vice President of Brand & Communications, South Asia. She announced her new role on her LinkedIn profile.Sarkar held the position of Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Dentsu International for over nine years. Before joining the communications world, she worked as an Editor at various publication firms.
https://theprpost.com/post/8772/

Tribes Communication triumphs at Dragons of Asia 2024 Awards

At the prestigious 24th Edition of the Dragons of Asia 2024 Awards held on October 18th in Kuala Lumpur, Tribes Communication, a leading integrated marketing communications agency, achieved remarkable recognition. In addition to being named India’s top agency, it ranked at second in the continent. These distinct rankings are attributed to Tribes, in collaboration with its esteemed partners winning the coveted Blue Dragon for Best Campaign in India and Gold Dragons for Best Brand Loyalty Campaign and Best Marketing Discipline Campaign. In total, Tribes in collaboration with its partners, brought home eight prestigious awards, which also included two Silver, and three Black Dragon recognitions, apart from the above. The Silver Dragons were awarded for Best Product Launch and Best Use of Media, while Black Dragon honors were given for Best Brand Loyalty Campaign, Best Innovative Idea, and Best Small Budget Campaign.The Dragons of Asia Awards are renowned for recognizing the best marketing communications work across the APAC region, with a focus on creativity that drives tangible business results. Tribes Communication’s triumph at one of Asia’s most elite marketing communications’ honors since 2000, reflects its dedication to producing groundbreaking campaigns across diverse sectors. Gour Gupta, Managing Director and CEO of Tribes Communication, said, "We are extremely happy to have been bestowed with this double honor at the Dragons of Asia 2024. This is a special moment for us as it is a celebration of our incredible campaigns that have earned accolades across different categories. It is a testament to the power of collaboration with our partners and clients and the hard work of our teams and has enabled us to deliver winning campaigns consistently.” The Dragons of Asia Director, Mike Da Silva, said, “This year’s international Judging Panels, representing 22 Countries, reported that the 24th Dragons of Asia Programme generated a quality of entries never seen before. Along with winning multiple awards – including the prestigious Blue Dragon for the best campaign in India, as well as Gold, Silver, and Black Dragon recommendations – Tribes ranked number one in India and second in Asia, making them standout agency of the year.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8768/

FCF launches second year of global scholarship program

The Future Communicators Foundation (FCF) has launched the second year of its global scholarship program that fosters communication skills around sustainability, climate, and social responsibility. By partnering with agency sponsors and universities from around the world, the FCF supports aspiring professionals with education funding and mentoring, while creating professional networks among students, faculty, and industry around sustainability initiatives that positively impact the planet.In 2024, the FCF is delivering eleven scholarships for senior students in public relations and communications, in partnership with our six sponsoring agencies on five continents. The FCF Scholarships include two annual awards provided by Adfactors PR at ScoRE, India (link); two annual awards from ICON at RMIT, Australia (link); and annual awards from FINN Partners at FAMU, Florida (link); Tucker/Hall at University of Florida (link); and SPRG at CUHK, Hong Kong (link). The FCF itself sponsors four full-tuition scholarships at WIUC, in Accra, Ghana, partnering with Mahogany Consult (link). The FCF Scholarship is producing long-term impact by creating an ever-growing network of students, faculty, and professionals that value social responsibility to climate and sustainability in the communications industry. The FCF is further impacting University education in public relations through the integration of the scholarship program into course pedagogy. Prestigious universities including RMIT (Australia) and the University of Florida (US) have incorporated the FCF Scholarship into their communications curricula, seeing it as an invaluable means to teach responsible ethics in professional practice. Students are also taking the initiative themselves to pay-it-forward—just like we all need to do for the planet. At ScoRE, in Chennai, India, the 2023 Adfactors PR winners of the FCF Scholarship have used their funds to set-up a ScoRe Alumni Network Scholarship to support their fellow students, encouraging the growth of the profession in India’s Eastern region.The FCF Scholarship is focused around a yearly theme addressing communications strategies for sustainability and climate initiatives. In 2024, competitions focus around fostering meaningful public action and measuring behavioural change. Each competition addresses the theme in ways particular to the region, from “Communicating a Clean Energy Future in Australia” (ICON at RMIT, Melbourne) to “Protecting Paradise: Responsible Tourism and Environmental Stewardship” (FINN Partners at FAMU, Florida). Regional campaigns include “Behaviour Change for a Swachh Bharat (Clean India)” (Adfactors PR at ScoRe, India); “Smart Ideas for Engaging Citizens in Healthier Lifestyle Choices” (SPRG at CUHK, Hong Kong); “Behaviour change(s) that will contribute to sustainability and/or help curb the climate crisis” (Tucker/Hall at University of Florida); and “Communicating the Climate Crisis: Motivating and Measuring Behavioural Change” (FCF Scholarship at WIUC, Ghana). Student entrants are tasked with designing an inventive communications campaign that not only raises awareness of sustainability and climate challenges but also considers how to do so using low-cost and limited means. Students are required to create a campaign brief, short video, slide deck, and statement of purpose as part of their submission, focusing on one key action or behavioural change that can be implemented, and measured, in their community. Student videos from FCF competitions can be viewed on our FCF Youtube. OUR SPONSORS SPEAK TO SUSTAINABILITY “We’re thrilled to partner with the Future Communicators Foundation and RMIT University to offer a scholarship that challenges the next generation of PRs to create inventive and practical communication campaigns addressing the climate crisis and social justice issues,” says Joanne Painter, Co-Founder of ICON Agency. “Sustainability principles are the foundation of sustainable business and an integral part of corporate reputation. Our scholarships in partnership with The PR Trust and SCoRe are a small step in this direction,” says Madan Bahal, Co-Founder of Adfactors PR.“The SPRG FCF Scholarship serves an excellent opportunity for students to apply their hardearned communication skills and knowledge, combined with their passion, enthusiasm and PAGE 3/3 innovative spirit to develop a campaign that advances the environment, public health and social justice. Moreover, we trust that the programme will benefit the community since stakeholders can draw inspiration from the students, who are providing fresh perspectives on building a sustainable future for all of society,” says Richard Tsang, Chairman of SPRG. “Our firm believes that the FCF’s mission of supporting students and young professionals entering the industry, while addressing sustainability and social responsibility in public relations, is an important one,” says Bill Carlson, President of Tucker/Hall.“Sustainability is one of the most pressing topics in today’s society,” says Allard W. van Veen, Founder of The PR Trust, the 501(c)(6) non-profit organization that administers the Future Communicators Foundation. “I firmly believe that PR professionals can play a more prominent role in promoting sustainability. We hope that the FCF Scholarship will help to develop students’ social conscience and encourage them to make an impact, in terms of promoting a fair and sustainable world.” 
https://theprpost.com/post/8763/

ON PURPOSE launches menopause leave policy on World Menopause Day

In observance of World Menopause Day, ON PURPOSE, a creative consultancy specialising in social change communications, is proud to announce the launch of an industry-first Menopause Leave Policy. Following the success of its path breaking ‘Period Chutti’ menstrual leave initiative, the new policy aims to address one of the most overlooked workplace challenges: Menopause. The policy is launched in collaboration with BleedEqual, an advocacy organisation advancing menstrual health awareness and gender equality beyond the socially created idea of femininity and womanhood.In India, menopause typically begins around age 46, earlier than the global average of 51. With many set to enter this phase by 2026, creating an inclusive workplace to support those experiencing menopause is crucial. Key features of the Menopause Leave Policy include:Menopause Leave: Employees are entitled to up to six days of paid leave per year, which can be used as needed throughout the year.Flexible Working Arrangements: Employees can request flexible hours or remote work options to manage symptoms like insomnia, low energy, and mood changes.Open Dialogues: ON PURPOSE will host educational sessions to destigmatize menopause, encouraging a supportive and understanding environmentDr. Nalini Kaushik, Founder, Bleed Equal, said: "The launch of this policy is a significant step towards recognizing and addressing the challenges many women face during menopause. Our survey at ON PURPOSE showed a strong interest in a menopause policy, but relatively low self-assessed knowledge of menopause, underscoring the need for more education and awareness initiatives. By launching this policy, ON PURPOSE is not only addressing these gaps but also setting a new standard for workplace inclusivity and support for women going through this natural phase”"By introducing our Menopause Leave Policy, we’re taking another step towards creating a supportive, stigma-free environment for all employees. Open dialogue and flexibility are at the heart of this policy. We want you to know you're not alone. We hope to encourage other organisations to follow our lead in addressing these critical and often overlooked issues" - Girish Balachandran, Founder and Managing Director, ON PURPOSE.This initiative continues ON PURPOSE’s commitment to creating a gender-inclusive workplace, having previously implemented its ‘Period Chutti’ policy and signed the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs). By addressing the unique challenges of menopause, ON PURPOSE seeks to improve the overall well-being and performance of its employees, reaffirming its dedication to inclusivity and support.
https://theprpost.com/post/8762/

Manu Kapoor joins Essar Group as Group Chief of Public Policy & Corporate Affair

Manu Kapoor has transitioned to Essar Group as Group Chief of Public Policy & Corporate Affairs. Prior to this, he served as Executive Director, Corporate Advisory at ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India. He has also been a member of the Board of Advisors at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Over the years, Kapoor has worked with prominent organizations such as Samsung Electronics, Vodafone, Cairn Energy PLC, Reliance Industries Limited, Vestergaard Frandsen and Procter & Gamble, among others.
https://theprpost.com/post/8758/

Treize Communications bags PR mandate of Ayurveda brand Ayushakti

Ayushakti, a global ayurvedic health centre has partnered with Treize Communications, a communication consultancy and public relations firm, founded by Sonam Shah, for its PR and communications.As part of the mandate, Treize Communications will be handling the offline and online PR for Ayushakti and its co-founder Smita Naram, who is a well-accomplished Ayurvedic physician, pharmaceutical herbalist, and nutritionist. The agency will be responsible for getting her featured in a timely and strategic manner in new-age media outlets, thus enhancing and escalating the overall brand recall.Ayushakti is a well-established Ayurveda company which was co-founded by Ayurveda expert Dr. Smita Pankaj Naram in 1987. They have played an integral role in creating awareness of Ayurveda across the globe including Asia, the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the UK.Speaking on the association, Smita Naram, co-founder at Ayushakti said, “In today's time, having a strong media presence is very important. Digital medium has grown a lot, and it helps us in helping people to know about Ayurvedic tips easily. Having the right presence on digital and print is essential.”“PR is a key tool for any consumer-facing brand, as it adds a lot of value and benefits. We have worked with Sonam and her team in the past and are excited to partner once again for our long-term vision.”Speaking on the association with Ayushakti, Sonam Shah, founder and CEO, Treize Communications, said, “We are grateful to Dr. Smita and the team at Ayushakti, for believing in us and keeping faith in our work. It’s always a pleasure to work with them and we look forward to our association.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8754/

Sunny Side Up secures XIX Vodka PR account

Leading PR agency Sunny Side Up will handle XIX Vodka's trade and consumer PR. The agency will amplify the brand's presence in the UK market.Launched in 2021 by YouTube collective The Sidemen, XIX Vodka has gained significant traction in the UK market. Sunny Side Up's previous success with Best Cereal, another The Sidemen spin-off, provides valuable audience insights.Sunny Side Up will lead corporate, trade, and consumer communications initiatives for XIX Vodka, with founder Nick Woods and senior account director Antonia Paget overseeing the account.XIX Vodka's marketing director Phil Neale praised Sunny Side Up's expertise, saying that their strategic insights will propel the vodka brand to new heights.Nick Woods added: “XIX is a great product and we’re so excited to work with the team. Their innovation and dedication align perfectly with our values, and we look forward to a successful partnership.”XIX Vodka joins Sunny Side Up's impressive drinks industry client roster, including Majestic and Ridgeview.
https://theprpost.com/post/8747/

Sabrina Larese to lead SEC Newgate's new Riyadh office

SEC Newgate, a global communications, advocacy, and research firm, has expanded its leadership team in the Middle East by appointing Sabrina Larese to lead its new Riyadh office.Last year, SEC Newgate officially entered the Saudi Arabian market, further growing its footprint in the region.The company’s regional hub in Dubai has been serving clients for 10 years, with its bouquet of services across the middle east and North Africa regions. Larese, who has been based in Saudi Arabia for the past two years, previously held the position of chief client development officer at Edelman. Before this, she served as deputy general manager at Edelman Italy and took on roles such as interim chief growth officer and EMEA affiliates coordinator.Prior to Edelman, Larese worked for nearly a decade at MS&L Mavellia Bellodi, where she specialized in corporate brand communications.In her new role, Larese will report to Elena Gramatica, founder and CEO of SEC Newgate Middle East.(Image: edelman.it)
https://theprpost.com/post/8746/

Crosshairs Communication wins PR mandate for "Les Entretiens" by IFCCI

Crosshairs Communication has been selected as the official public relations partner for the inaugural edition of "Mumbai Les Entretiens." Crosshairs will lead the effort in shaping and delivering the key messaging of this prestigious Indo-French event, ensuring its importance resonates across India. The agency will manage all communication strategies, aligning them with the event's vision of fostering global dialogues and collaborations.Stuti Jalan, Founder and Managing Director of Crosshairs Communication, shared her excitement: “We are honored to be a part of this transformative event that is set to shape Mumbai’s future. Being chosen as the PR partner for Mumbai Les Entretiens is a testament to our commitment to fostering impactful global dialogues. We look forward to facilitating an exchange of ideas that will contribute to Mumbai’s journey as a global metropolis.”Organized by the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (IFCCI), Mumbai Les Entretiens will be held on October 18th, 2024, at the iconic Royal Opera House. The event will explore the theme "Mumbai 2047 – The Rise of a Global Metropolis," with distinguished guests such as Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and His Excellency Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India.This exclusive gathering will feature over 20 prominent figures from India and France, including business leaders, policymakers, and academics. Co-chaired by Sumeet Anand and Florence Verzelen, the discussions will cover topics like urban infrastructure, sustainable consumption, and cultural evolution. Supported by the French Embassy in India and the French Institute in India, Mumbai Les Entretiens promises to spark meaningful conversations that will shape the future of the city, aligning with its vision to become a global icon by 2047.
https://theprpost.com/post/8741/

Omnicom PR posts 4.3% revenue growth in Q3 2024

Omnicom saw its PR division achieve a 4.3% revenue growth in Q3 2024, marking the highest increase for the segment in over a year.While Omnicom PR Group — encompassing FleishmanHillard, Ketchum, and Porter Novelli — lagged behind the company's advertising & media segment (9.4% growth) and experiential marketing (35.3% growth), it outperformed other areas such as precision marketing (0.8%) and execution & support (0.3%). In comparison, healthcare and branding & retail commerce witnessed revenue declines of 1.1% and 5.4%, respectively.Overall, Omnicom’s Q3 2024 revenue jumped by $304.5 million (8.5%) to reach $3.88 billion. The company’s global revenue growth was primarily driven by an organic revenue increase of $231.3 million, or 6.5%.Acquisition-related revenue rose by $74.4 million, or 2.1%, largely due to Omnicom’s acquisition of Flywheel Digital in the Precision Marketing sector during Q1 2024. Foreign currency fluctuations had no significant impact on revenue.Organic growth in Q3 2024, compared to the same quarter in 2023, varied by region: 6.5% in the U.S., 10.9% in the Asia-Pacific region, 6.8% across Europe, 24.8% in the Middle East and Africa, 8.7% in Latin America, and 1.5% in parts of North America, while the UK saw a slight dip of 0.2%.John Wren, Omnicom’s chairman and CEO, commented: "Our cash flow improved, and we continued our very disciplined capital allocation,” he said. “With exceptional new business wins and exciting new work for our clients, we expect to finish the year with strong momentum.”This quarterly boost for Omnicom PR Group (OPRG) marked its most significant in over a year. After facing three consecutive quarters of declines, OPRG had shown modest improvement with a 0.9% revenue increase in Q2.In Q1, OPRG saw a 1.1% drop in revenue, which followed declines of 2.9% in Q4 2023 and 5.5% in Q3 2023, the latter being the group's first quarterly loss since Q1 2021.Prior to these dips, OPRG experienced consistent growth across eight consecutive quarters, with increases of 5.8% in Q1 2023, 12.7% in Q4 2022, 12.6% in Q3 2022, and double-digit growth throughout much of 2022. This was a significant rebound from the 3.5% drop the group faced in early 2021.
https://theprpost.com/post/8718/

Communications+ Strategy: A Gamechanger in Transforming Mining Mindsets

Mining has long been at the center of debate, given the challenge of balancing industrial growth with the need for sustainable environmental protection. In an era where stakeholders demand accountability, the mining industry faces dual challenges: dispelling longstanding misconceptions while demonstrating its commitment to responsible practices. Once viewed as supplementary, communications have now evolved into a strategic force within the mining industry. It plays a pivotal role in building bridges, fostering dialogue, and shaping a positive image. This evolution has shifted mining companies from being reactive to becoming proactive in their engagement with stakeholders. The transformative power of communications lies in its ability to translate an organization's commitments to responsible business practices, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic development into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders. The rise of digital and social media platforms has democratized access to information, enabling a shift from a conservative, minimalist approach to real-time communication. This enhances transparency, builds trust, and strengthens relationships, positively impacting business outcomes. A study by the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) found that companies with strong community engagement programs experience fewer operational disruptions and enjoy greater community support. There are several reasons causing the media landscape to shift and reliance on traditional print media giving way to digital and social platforms. Subscriptions to newspapers are declining, while social media usage is growing exponentially. This demographic shift is particularly evident among users aged 25-55, where social media engagement far outpaces newspaper readership. As a result, social media now lies at the heart of narrative building and stakeholder engagement. This shift calls for a complete overhaul of traditional communications approaches, with the implementation of an impactful "Communications+" strategy. Going further, this strategy entails posting content on official websites and social media channels with an additional focus on making a calibrated shift toward direct engagement with internal and external stakeholders. Utilizing platforms like WhatsApp, with content tailored to regional languages and aimed at last-mile connectivity, is increasingly gaining ground. This direct outreach is particularly effective during crises, helping to quell misinformation and manage alternative narratives swiftly. "Communications+", which is built on the principle of last-mile connectivity, also uses offline tools like information banners and flyers to create an emotional connection with target audiences.  As environmental concerns take center stage globally, the mining industry faces heightened scrutiny. Here, communication serves as a crucial bridge between sustainability efforts and public perception. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has evolved from a niche activity into a core element of corporate strategy. A key component of the "Communications+" strategy is the "PR Bridge." While CSR initiatives and targeted events have their own frequency, communication leaders must plan PR events that emphasize the benefits of these initiatives. It is crucial to maintain visibility and keep the narrative active until the next wave of initiatives is rolled out. A prominent example of how communications in the mining sector has moved beyond its traditional role, is the Minerals Council of Australia's "This is Mining" digital campaign, which highlights the positive contributions of the mining sector to the Australian economy and society. It is particularly satisfying to observe that communications is now deeply integrated with business objectives in the mining industry, with companies measuring the impact of their efforts on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as brand reputation, stakeholder sentiment, and social license to operate. For instance, Anglo American’s Socio-Economic Assessment Toolbox (SEAT) offers a comprehensive framework for managing the socio-economic impacts of mining projects. Communications has also played a strategic role in the mining industry, by helping secure environmental clearances by rallying stakeholder support and achieving accurate sustainability ratings. By showcasing their commitment to environmental and social responsibility, companies can enhance their reputations and attract investors focused on sustainable practices. The S&P Sustainability Index, for example, factors corporate communications practices into its ratings. Looking into the future, the mining industry's ability to evolve hinges on its capacity to communicate effectively and transparently with a broad spectrum of stakeholders. The "Communications+" strategy offers a transformative approach, embracing both digital innovation and direct engagement to build trust, manage perceptions, and highlight the sector's commitment to responsible practices. As environmental and social expectations continue to rise, mining companies that prioritize authentic, proactive communication will not only strengthen their reputations but also secure a more sustainable future. By reshaping how the industry is perceived, corporate communications can truly transform the mining mindscape.
https://theprpost.com/post/8734/

Roarrr Media celebrates 10 years, names Ganapathy Viswanathan as chief mentor

Roarrr Media & Public Relations, a dynamic PR and Marcomm firm in Indian, proudly marks a decade of excellence in the world of communication, branding, and media relations. Founded in 2014 by Sonali Ramaiya, the agency has made a significant mark by unleashing the untapped potential of Indian and global businesses, transforming them into well-recognized brands.As Roarrr commemorates this milestone, it also takes a giant leap forward by roping in Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan, a veteran in the communications industry, as Chief Mentor. With over three decades of experience across various sectors, including FMCG, Consumer Durables, Pharmaceuticals, and Services, Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan ‘s appointment signifies a new chapter of growth and strategic evolution for the firm.A Decade of Impactful Publicity and StorytellingOver the past 10 years, Roarrr has built a reputation for delivering innovative PR campaigns that resonate. Headquartered in Mumbai, with operations in Canada and an affiliate network spanning 165 Indian cities, the agency offers end-to-end visibility solutions. From high-profile brand management and media relations to digital marketing and crisis management, Roarrr prides itself on its creative prowess, helping brands build compelling narratives that echo across markets.Sonali Ramaiya, a multipreneur and educator, is an MBA in Marketing bringing to the fore her experience with global brands and has fostered a client-centric approach, empowering businesses to achieve market prominence.Ganapathy Viswanathan: A Mentor with a Legacy of Excellence Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan brings unparalleled expertise to Roarrr Media, having played leadership roles in various organisation in the field of Advertising, PR & Digital. He started his career with Ogilvy and was part of the core team at Ogilvy in India that has launched several interesting campaigns for brands such as Titan, Philips, Maharashtra Tourism, Crompton Greaves, and AIS glass. His work includes the 360-degree launch of Titan Watches, from IPO to product unveiling, and collaborating with the government of Andhra Pradesh under the leadership of Mr. Chandrababu Naidu to promote the state as a global investment destination two decades back when Mr. Naidu was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh State.Notably, Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan led award winning campaigns for Maharashtra Tourism, including the prestigious launch of the luxury train *Deccan Odyssey*, and developed the celebrated "Maharashtra Unlimited" branding when the repositioning of the Maharashtra Tourism brand happened. Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan was also associated with the Lintas, Mudra and Publicis Group. At Publicis he was part of the leadership team at 2020 MSL (West) where he brought in several success to the branch by winning interesting business in diverse verticals. He believes in sharing his vast knowledge by giving it back to the industry and is also part of the visiting faculty at some of the leading colleges and the Xavier’s Institute of Communication, Mumbai. Looking Forward:With Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan onboard as Chief Mentor, Roarrr Media & Public Relations aims to scale new heights by expanding its capabilities, growing its client portfolio, and nurturing young PR professionals. His mentorship will complement the agency’s ethos of storytelling that roars, setting the stage for the next decade of growth and impact.“We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone and honored to have Mr. Ganapathy Viswanathan join us as Chief Mentor,” said Sonali Ramaiya, Founder of Roarrr Media & Public Relations. “With his vast knowledge, passion, experience and vision, we are poised to take Roarrr to the next level, continuing our legacy of transforming businesses into household names.”“In my career, I’ve been fortunate to learn from and spend valuable time with many great mentors. I am glad to contribute to Roarrr Media’s journey and add value as they scale new heights in this exciting phase of growth”, added Ganapathy Vishwanathan.
https://theprpost.com/post/8714/

Sumeet Bhojani on Godrej Enterprises' future-ready strategy

We are in a new era of Public Relations. In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has undergone a sea change. More brands and clients, especially from the leadership teams, are viewing Public Relations from a close range. The industry has undergone a radical change with the advent of social media, which has to a large extent changed the approach to Public Relations. We have a relatively new and young audience that we need to face in the coming years so there are bigger challenges for brands and PR practitioners, who have to be more agile and proactive in their thinking to draw up business solutions for clients.In our exclusive weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully interacts with leading business leaders to gain their exclusive views and insights on various trends in the PR and communications industry.In an exclusive conversation with Adgully, Sumeet Bhojani, Head - Brand & Strategic Insights, Godrej & Boyce Mfg Co Ltd, discusses his journey – from being the Head of Marketing Communications to leading Brand & Strategic Insights at Godrej Enterprises Group. He shares how he ensures consistency in brand messaging across different communication channels and touchpoints, the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in communication strategy, key focus areas for brand and strategic insights at Godrej Enterprises Group, and more.Could you describe your journey from being the Head of Marketing Communications to the Head of Brand & Strategic Insights at Godrej Enterprises Group? How has your role evolved?My journey from Head of Marketing Communications to Head of Brand & Strategic Insights at Godrej Enterprises Group has been both challenging and rewarding. When I was leading Marketing Communications, with Godrej Interio, my focus was very category focused. The primary challenge was to associate the brand with a lifestyle which required a deep understanding of our consumers and how they engage with our products. Given the visual nature of the category, driving inspiring content became crucial. We had to ensure that our brand was not only visible, but also preferred in a highly competitive landscape which meant that digital touchpoints became crucial given that over 60% of the consumers begin their journey online.Transitioning to Head of Brand & Strategic Insights expanded my scope significantly. In this role, I’m responsible for managing the Godrej mother-brand at Godrej & Boyce, ensuring its consistent and cohesive representation across multiple categories. Brand governance has become a key responsibility, where we need to ensure that the brand speaks uniformly across various touchpoints, whether in B2B or B2C contexts. The challenge now is to maintain this consistency while adapting to the unique nuances of each category, ensuring that the mother brand remains strong and relevant across all our business verticals.In your role at Godrej Enterprises Group, how do you ensure consistency in brand messaging across different communication channels and touchpoints?At Godrej Enterprises Group, ensuring consistency in brand messaging is paramount, given the diversity of our business verticals and the unique audiences we engage with. We have established a detailed framework with specific guidelines that clearly define what the brand stands for and the key messaging pillars that must be adhered to across all businesses. This framework is meticulously cascaded across categories, contexts, and touchpoints.For instance, in our B2B communications, we focus on showcasing our capabilities around engineering and manufacturing excellence, which are core to our identity. On the other hand, when it comes to digital touchpoints for a brand like Godrej Interio, the messaging pivots towards how our products enhance the lifestyle of consumers, aligning with their aspirations and needs.Across all channels, whether it’s a B2B exhibit or a digital campaign, the underlying theme remains consistent: our commitment to sustainability and nation-building, and our focus on enhancing the lives of our consumers through innovation and design. By indexing our communications on these pillars, we ensure that the Godrej brand is represented uniformly, yet relevantly, across all touchpoints.Could you discuss the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in your communication strategy and how it impacts brand perception?At Godrej Enterprises Group, CSR is central to our purpose-driven approach, shaping our communication strategy and enhancing brand perception. Our initiatives, such as the Godrej DISHA program, focus on improving employability by offering vocational training in fields like manufacturing, digital skills, and technical trades, aligning with our business needs and national priorities.Additionally, our community development efforts span across education, environment, health, and livelihood. We continue to improve school infrastructure, support underprivileged engineering students, work on water conservation and afforestation projects, enhance health and sanitation facilities, and empower local communities through livelihood initiatives. These programs are implemented across multiple locations, including Khalapur, Shirwal, Madkai, Mohali, and others.These efforts not only address critical societal needs, but also solidify our brand’s reputation as a responsible and conscious organization, fostering trust and goodwill among our stakeholders.How did your previous roles at Asian Paints prepare you for your current position at Godrej Enterprises Group, particularly in handling multiple brands and driving integrated marketing communications?My experience at Asian Paints was instrumental in shaping my approach to handling multiple brands. I had the opportunity to work closely with both sales and marketing functions. This dual exposure gave me a comprehensive understanding of the market, ensuring that our large-scale marketing campaigns, whether ATL or BTL, were always grounded in the realities of the marketplace. Keeping an ear to the ground became essential in crafting strategies that resonated with consumers and drove results.Moreover, managing teams at Asian Paints honed my people leadership skills, teaching me the importance of not just driving performance but also influencing and negotiating effectively and carving a win-win path. These experiences added a unique set of soft skills that are invaluable in managing complex brand portfolios and executing integrated marketing strategies.In addition, my roles in marketing and category management at Asian Paints taught me how critical consumer research and insights are in shaping go-to-market strategies, brand positioning, and creative direction. These skill sets have been crucial in building a well-rounded leadership approach at Godrej Enterprises Group, enabling me to effectively manage multiple brands and ensure cohesive, impactful communication across all touchpoints.Could you share some insights into your leadership style and how it has evolved over the years, particularly in high-pressure roles and fast-paced environments?My leadership style has evolved significantly over the years, particularly as I’ve taken on high-pressure roles in fast-paced environments. Initially, my focus was on relentless execution – getting the job done no matter what. However, as I grew into more managerial roles, I realized the importance of shifting from a task-focused approach to a people-focused one. It’s the people who drive the objectives you set, and their success directly translates to the organization’s success.I’ve learned to be very clear about our goals while also being mindful of the resources required to achieve them. Anticipating potential obstacles and developing mitigation plans has become a key part of my leadership approach. It’s crucial to provide the team with the necessary resources, clarity, and support to navigate challenges and reach their objectives.Ultimately, I see my role as a leader as someone who empowers the team to achieve their goals. By focusing on people, providing the right resources, and maintaining clear communication, I ensure that we can perform effectively even in the most demanding situations.Looking ahead, what are your key focus areas for brand and strategic insights at Godrej Enterprises Group? How do you plan to continue driving growth and innovation?As we look into the future, my key focus areas for brand and strategic insights at Godrej Enterprises Group revolve around ensuring that our brand is not just relevant today, but also future-ready. The world and consumer expectations are rapidly evolving, and it’s imperative that we stay ahead of these changes.One of our primary goals is to build a brand focused on providing a great experience. This means that we need to be present at the right touchpoints and offer a consistent and delightful experience at all stages of the customer journey. In today’s day and age, leveraging digital technology as an enabler becomes paramount towards achieving this. It is also important to consistently, delivering a cohesive brand presence across all channels, ensuring that our values of trust, sustainability, and consciousness are at the core of everything we do.We’re also committed to embracing innovation – whether through digital transformation, technology integration, or aligning our brand with the aspirations of today’s youth. While at the same time keeping the trust and values that Godrej Enterprises Group stands for as a bedrock of everything that we do. By leveraging our strengths and combining them with innovation and design capabilities, we aim to drive growth and build further on our strong brand foundation.
https://theprpost.com/post/8708/

Gulf Marcom Dentsu wins ‘Best Creative Agency in Bahrain’ 2024 titles

Marketing and communications agency Gulf Marcom Dentsu has been honoured with the title of "Best Creative Agency in Bahrain" at the International Business Magazine Awards 2024. This accolade marks a significant milestone for the Bahraini-owned agency, which celebrates 50 years of building impactful brands.Rooted in an Arabian ethos and a deep understanding of the regional market, Gulf Marcom Dentsu has consistently delivered successful brand strategies across the Middle East. The agency embodies the principle of "being local yet thinking global," which has positioned it as a leading choice within the Dentsu Network, a powerhouse in media and digital marketing.The award reflects the agency's unwavering commitment to creativity, innovation, and excellence in marketing and communication. Gulf Marcom Dentsu and its talented team of creative professionals has a proven track record of executing impactful campaigns for a diverse array of clients. This recognition serves not only as validation of their ePorts but also as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity.Khamis Al Muqla, Chairman of Gulf Marcom Group, expressed pride in the achievement, “We are honored to receive this award, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.”Thamer Al Muqla, Group Managing Director, added: “We are grateful to our clients for their trust and support. We look forward to raising the bar in the marketing and communications industry.”As the advertising landscape evolves, driven by technological advancements, Gulf Marcom Dentsu has adeptly adapted to these changes. This agility has fostered a culture of innovative thinking that is reflected in their award-winning work.Receiving the Best Creative Agency award is a testament to our ongoing dedication to innovation and excellence. As we celebrate 50 years of creativity and success, Gulf Marcom Dentsu is more committed than ever to delivering exceptional solutions that drive growth for our clients in Bahrain and beyond. This honour inspires us to continue raising the bar, ensuring that the next chapter of our journey is even more remarkable.
https://theprpost.com/post/8698/

Festive Buzz: Maximize Your Diwali Campaign with Innovative Marketing Strategies

Authored by – Chetan Relhan, Founder and CEO, The Achievers PRThe festive season is one of the most lucrative times for businesses, particularly for online retailers who see a significant surge in traffic and sales. With consumer enthusiasm running high, it’s the perfect time to implement innovative marketing strategies that maximize sales potential. In today’s digital era, staying ahead of the competition requires upgrading your marketing techniques to resonate with the season’s celebratory spirit while ensuring that you’re capturing the attention of eager shoppers. 1. Leverage Data-Driven PersonalizationPersonalization is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Modern consumers expect businesses to understand their preferences and offer tailor-made experiences. Leveraging data-driven insights can help online businesses create personalized recommendations, offers, and messaging. By analyzing customer behavior, purchase history, and browsing patterns, businesses can segment their audience and design targeted marketing campaigns that speak directly to individual preferences. Personalized emails, for instance, can showcase specific festive offers based on past purchases or browsing history. Platforms like Amazon have mastered this, and smaller businesses can follow suit by implementing AI-powered recommendations on their websites and apps. 2. Create Festive-Themed Content and PromotionsFestive-themed content is one of the most effective ways to tap into the emotional and celebratory aspects of the season. Creating visually appealing ads, videos, and banners that align with the festive mood can instantly capture the attention of potential buyers. Consider running holiday-specific promotions, contests, and giveaways that encourage engagement across social media platforms. Seasonal storytelling in your content can also create a connection with your audience. Share stories of how your brand or products are part of people’s celebrations. For instance, a fashion brand can create a video showing how their clothing line can be styled for festive occasions. Engaging narratives and festive-themed content help customers associate your brand with the joy and excitement of the season. 3. Implement Dynamic Pricing StrategiesThe festive season is synonymous with discounts and deals, making it the ideal time to adopt dynamic pricing strategies. By adjusting prices in real time based on demand, competition, and customer behavior, businesses can maximize their profit margins while remaining competitive. Offering limited-time deals, flash sales, and exclusive discounts not only attracts shoppers but also instills a sense of urgency, prompting quicker purchasing decisions. Incorporating scarcity techniques, such as showing how many items are left in stock or running countdown timers, can further motivate customers to act fast. Creating bundles or package deals is another way to increase average order value while providing customers with perceived savings. 4. Optimize for Mobile Shopping ExperienceWith the increasing reliance on smartphones for shopping, it’s crucial to ensure your online store is fully optimized for mobile devices. Mobile commerce (m-commerce) is booming, and during the festive season, customers will likely be shopping on the go. Ensure that your website is mobile-friendly, with fast loading times, intuitive navigation, and a seamless checkout process. Consider creating a dedicated mobile app if your business doesn’t already have one. An app can provide a smoother and more personalized shopping experience, and push notifications can remind users of festive offers, abandoned carts, or exclusive deals. Offering easy payment options such as mobile wallets, UPI, and one-click checkouts also enhances the shopping experience, encouraging users to complete their purchases. 5. Incorporate AR and VR for Enhanced Customer EngagementAugmented Reality and Virtual Reality are emerging technologies that offer immersive shopping experiences. They can be game-changers during the festive season, enabling customers to visualize products before purchasing. These tech-driven strategies not only enhance engagement but also build consumer confidence, leading to higher conversion rates.  6. Leverage Social Media and Influencer CollaborationsSocial media platforms are where festive conversations and trends thrive, and businesses should capitalize on this by crafting campaigns that encourage engagement. Interactive campaigns, product reviews, festive hauls, or even sharing personal Diwali stories, and festive countdowns, keep your audience engaged. Additionally, running paid ad campaigns targeting relevant demographics ensures that your brand reaches a wider audience during this busy season. This could include product reviews, festive hauls, styling tips, or even sharing personal Diwali stories, all while subtly promoting your brand’s products. Collaborating with influencers is another way to maximize visibility. Influencers can create authentic, relatable content that showcases your products in festive settings. These collaborations can drive traffic to your online store and build trust among their followers, making it easier to convert them into customers. 7. Focus on Customer Experience and RetentionWhile acquiring new customers is essential, retaining existing ones should be a key focus, especially during the festive season. Providing exceptional customer service, offering loyalty rewards, and simplifying the shopping experience can turn first-time buyers into long-term customers. Offering free shipping, easy returns, and gift-wrapping options adds value to the customer experience, making it more likely that shoppers will choose your business over competitors. Post-purchase engagement, such as sending thank-you emails or offering exclusive discounts for future purchases, can also encourage repeat business. ConclusionMaximizing your Diwali campaign with innovative marketing strategies requires a mix of personalization, technology, and creativity. From leveraging AR and social commerce to collaborating with influencers and launching interactive campaigns, the opportunities to stand out and drive festive sales are vast. Let your marketing campaign reflect the energy and joy of Diwali, and watch as your sales soar this festive season!
https://theprpost.com/post/8695/

Strategic storytelling: Shivam Trivedi on building House of Communication

In the second edition of our new column, PR ACE, dedicated to spotlighting young PR leaders and their journeys, we feature Shivam Trivedi, Director at House of Communication. Shivam shares insights into how his prior experiences shaped his approach to PR, drawing from his work across industries such as real estate, FMCG, and healthcare. He discussed how working in these diverse sectors has enriched his understanding of PR, emphasizing the importance of strategic communication and building trust with stakeholders.He also shared his strategies for ensuring that campaigns resonate with diverse audiences across different industries. Additionally, Shivam touched upon his expertise in both traditional and digital PR, explaining how he balances the two approaches to deliver optimal results for his clients. He reflected on some of the key challenges he's encountered while managing PR across various sectors, and much more.Can you tell us about your journey from your early days at multiple PR firms to founding the House of Communication? How did your prior experiences shape your approach to PR?My journey into PR started with a solid foundation in journalism, which sharpened my understanding of storytelling and media dynamics. While working with diverse PR agencies, I was exposed to different sectors-from small startups to multinational corporations-that helped me develop a pretty sound perspective towards developing communications strategies. The experience made me understand that effective PR is more than just coverage-it's creating meaningful narratives that work in tandem with business goals. I took all these learnings forward and laid the foundation of the House of Communication. So, at all times, campaigns that we work with the client are both innovative and deeply connected with the client's objectives.You’ve had experience in various industries such as real estate, FMCG, and healthcare. How has working across these diverse sectors enriched your understanding of PR? It has been very enriching to work across industries like technology, healthcare, real estate, startups, and lifestyle, where each sector has its respective hurdles, stakeholders, and narratives, but the common thread was being authentic and having strategic communication. And hence, it made me understand better what type of communication works best for which type of audience.This cross-industry experience puts us in a position where we're sector-agnostic, so we bring cross-industry insights to the table, which is how we're applying innovative strategies from one industry over into another-and that usually leads to fresh, unexpected solutions. So, our approach is holistic, and it gives our clients the ability to kind of adapt to them, but always cut through the noise with our campaigns.What motivated you to start House of Communication, and what was the vision behind it?The motivation behind starting House of Communication was to create a platform where strategic communications would not only drive brand visibility but deliver measurable business outcomes. For me, I envisioned a PR firm that would streamline a traditional PR approach with modern digital techniques, thereby offering a very holistic approach. I felt it was going to be about being a trusted partner for brands, understanding their pain, and then coming forward with solutions that speak to them and their audience. I wanted to generate that team of people who could share this passion for storytelling and strategic thinking at the same time build incredible relationships with media, clients, and all of our stakeholders.You emphasize the importance of strategic communication and building trust with stakeholders. How do you ensure that your campaigns resonate with diverse audiences across different industries?The bottom line to reach diverse audiences is to understand the unique values, needs, and motivations of each sector. We start by conducting a complete analysis of the client's brand, industry landscape, and target audiences. Once we achieve that insight, we craft messages reflecting the voice of the brand while addressing the concerns of the audience in a relevant manner.This will involve strategic communication with our campaigns, aligning them with the client's vision but also adaptable enough for it to resonate within multiple platforms. That's why we ensure our campaigns speak to the different stakeholders - customers, investors, even partners - by tailoring the message that always lies at the core of authentic and transparent communication.Given your expertise in both traditional and digital PR, how do you balance the two approaches to achieve the best results for your clients?Balancing traditional and digital PR means understanding where your audience is and how they consume information. In reality, we don't view traditional and digital as opposing forces to one another but rather as complementary tools that will really amplify a message when used strategically. Traditional PR embodies credibility and trust while digital PR provides instant engagement and reach to expansive geographies.For instance, we start with traditional media to cement the authority and then amplify the message through various other digital platforms, looking at the engagement in real-time and getting a much broader visibility. An integrated approach ensures that your client gets the best of both worlds, delivering sustained impact across multiple channels.Q - You’ve mentioned focusing on ROI-driven approaches for your clients. Could you share an example of a campaign where this strategy proved particularly successful?Absolutely! We implement ROI-driven strategies so that our client can actually see the difference we are making. One of my favorite campaigns goes back to launching a VC fund for a client. There was significant interest in establishing credibility for that particular market. We implemented a comprehensive approach, combining media outreach, thought leadership, and digital engagement-all anchored on very clear, measurable KPIs. The campaign within a short span received wide media coverage, most inquiries ever, and exceeded client's goals with fund launch. On the other end of the spectrum, we worked with a waste management brand in which we developed a multi-channel communication strategy that placed traditional platforms alongside digital platforms, thereby cutting across a plethora of stakeholders from agencies to government, to environmentally conscious consumers. Using measurable outcomes such as brand visibility, stakeholder engagement, and consumer conversion, the campaign made sure that it created significant awareness and also business outcome tangibles. The remarkable growth witnessed in investor interest did give a clear view of tangible business outcomes, which could then be compared to a form of return on investment through media coverage, social media engagement, and new business leads.The PR industry has evolved rapidly with the rise of digital media and news aggregators. How do you keep up with these changes, and how has it influenced your work?Staying ahead in the fast-evolving digital landscape is crucial. We actively monitor trends, invest in digital tools, and continually upskill our team to ensure we are at the cutting edge of the industry. The rise of digital media and news aggregators has changed how we approach PR—it's more about real-time engagement and data-driven strategies now. For example, we focus heavily on analytics to gauge the performance of campaigns and adjust strategies on the go. The ability to track the direct impact of our efforts has made PR more accountable and results-driven, which benefits both us and our clients.The PR industry has evolved rapidly with the rise of digital media and news aggregators. How do you keep up with these changes, and how has it influenced your work?The rapid pace of change in digital media has made it essential to stay ahead of trends and adapt quickly. At House of Communication, we continuously invest in digital tools and analytics platforms to ensure we’re at the cutting edge of PR technology. We also place a strong emphasis on ongoing training for our team to ensure we remain agile and responsive to new platforms, trends, and audience behaviors.The shift towards digital has influenced our work by making campaigns more data-driven. We can now track the performance of every piece of content, adjust in real-time, and measure outcomes more precisely, which in turn helps us deliver better results for our clients.What are some of the key challenges you’ve encountered while managing PR for different sectors, and how do you overcome them?One of the key challenges across sectors is navigating the unique regulatory, market, and communication landscapes. Each sector has its own set of challenges—whether it's maintaining compliance or standing out in the crowded space. The solution lies in deep research and sector-specific expertise.We overcome these challenges by assembling specialized teams who understand the intricacies of each industry. This allows us to craft strategies that are not only compliant but also innovative and effective in reaching the right stakeholders.How important is creativity in the current PR landscape, and how do you foster a creative mindset in your team while maintaining a focus on measurable results?Creativity is the lifeblood of PR—it’s what makes a campaign stand out. However, creativity is only good if it delivers results based on measurable outcomes. We also develop the creative psyche by encouraging our team to think outside of the box and challenge other conventional methods of doing things in PR. For instance, through brainstorming, we ask one another how we could integrate two seemingly incompatible elements into our campaign, such as experiential marketing or data visualization. In doing so, we always bring our creative ideas back to the client's KPI, so every campaign is not only inventive but also results-driven.As a leader, how do you inspire and manage your team at House of Communication to adapt and innovate in a highly competitive PR industry?Leading by example is crucial. I emphasize the importance of collaboration, continuous improvement, and staying curious. I encourage my team to take calculated risks and come up with innovative solutions, knowing that every challenge presents an opportunity to grow. We foster a culture of open communication where everyone’s ideas are valued. In an industry as dynamic as PR, adaptability is key, and I encourage my team to be agile by staying ahead of trends and being proactive rather than reactive.Looking ahead, what are your goals for the House of Communication in the next few years? Are there any new sectors or services you’re planning to explore?Looking ahead, I see House of Communication expanding its footprint in both new sectors and geographies. We have established ourselves across every sector and keenly look forward to exploring the emerging sectors. We continue to work on further strengthening our digital services in parallel. We have a few collaboration initiatives up in the air that will allow us to present more integrated marketing solutions for our clients. Ultimately, my aspiration is to build House of Communication as a full-service agency presenting end-to-end communication solutions all while maintaining our core of impactful, ROI-driven PR.
https://theprpost.com/post/8696/

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan denies hiring PR agency to boost public image

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan dismissed opposition allegations regarding the use of a PR agency to enhance his public image. In a recent state assembly session, Vijayan firmly denied the claims, asserting that Kerala's secular and peaceful environment has always made it a target for communal forces.He emphasized that the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government and its leadership have never required external PR assistance to address such challenges or maintain the state's reputation. Vijayan highlighted the government's extensive developmental and welfare initiatives, which have garnered widespread public support and appreciation.The Chief Minister also clarified a recent interview with The Hindu newspaper, stating that the state's Information and Public Relations Department (I&PRD) handles all communication and public outreach activities. He refuted any involvement of a PR agency and confirmed that there was no mention of Malappuram in his remarks, as previously clarified by The Hindu.Vijayan dismissed questions about the presence of a PR agency representative during the interview, stating that the query was irrelevant since no such agency was involved.
https://theprpost.com/post/8697/

Arlene Winnick, Veteran Hollywood Publicist, Dies at 77

Arlene Winnick, a seasoned Hollywood publicist who represented high-profile clients such as Universal Studios Hollywood and TCL Chinese Theatre throughout her career spanning over three decades, passed away on October 1 in Beverly Hills following a prolonged illness. Publicist Jerry Digney, who worked closely with Winnick, credited her as a key part of Solters & Digney and later Digney & Co. Public Relations.Winnick played a significant role in the entertainment industry for more than 30 years. Early in her career, she helped pioneer marketing and publicity campaigns for the then-emerging home video industry, contributing to the success of popular exercise tapes featuring Richard Simmons, Jane Fonda, and Zsa Zsa Gabor.Throughout her career, she worked as a consultant for several independent PR firms and the Digney team on notable entertainment accounts. Her clients included Universal Studios Hollywood, Madame Tussauds Hollywood and Las Vegas, Warner Bros. Studio Tour, the Carousel of Hope gala, TCL Chinese Theatres Hollywood, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.In her later years, Winnick worked on handprint-footprint ceremonies at the TCL Chinese Theatre for iconic figures such as James Cameron, Jon Landau, Keanu Reeves, and the cast of the Avengers films.Beyond Hollywood, Winnick's more than 35 years of PR experience extended to the food, restaurant, and travel/tourism industries. Her clients included renowned names like Raffles L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, BeautifulPlaces, Le Meridien Beverly Hills (now the SLS Hotel), RanchWeb, Paradisio de la Bonita, Ceiba del Mar, Pacifica Holistic Resort and Spa in Mexico, Wyndam Bel Age (now The London West Hollywood), Madison and Mulholland (luxury events and celebrity gifting), Lake Arrowhead Resort + Spa, Johnnie Walker, and Westlake Village Inn.Since 2012, Winnick had also been a senior writer for L.A. Arts Online, where she covered and reviewed more than 50 events and shows. Additionally, she volunteered with Project Angel Food. A native of Great Neck, New York, Winnick was preceded in death by her partner of 20 years, Richard Schulenberg.She is survived by two sons, Jon and Andrew Gladston; a brother, Larry Beer; a daughter-in-law, Leslie; two stepdaughters, Katie and Amy, along with her husband Chris; and seven grandchildren, Jacob, Talia, Harper, Lucy, Elenor, Kalan, and Pono.
https://theprpost.com/post/8675/

HAVAS Red expands into Greece through partnership with Solid Havas

Global PR agency HAVAS Red (formerly Red HAVAS), has announced a partnership with SOLID HAVAS to provide enhanced merged media communications support to clients in Greece. SOLID HAVAS has been a valued affiliate of HAVAS in Greece since 2017. One of the country’s foremost consultancies, SOLID HAVAS offers fully integrated communications solutions to clients across multiple industry sectors. Ioanna Leoussi, managing partner of SOLID HAVAS, will lead the partnership with HAVAS Red. “Bigger, better, bolder and more borderless — that’s how HAVAS Red continues to grow each year,” said James Wright, global CEO of HAVAS Red and global chairman of the HAVAS PR Network. “Expanding into India and Africa last year was a significant milestone for us, opening doors to very exciting regions. Now we’re thrilled to extend our footprint into Greece, where our HAVAS colleagues are already delivering outstanding, outcome-led work with iconic clients, and we look forward to providing enhanced PR and social support to continue driving innovation and excellence.” Rachael Sansom, CEO of HAVAS Red Europe and UK, added: “We have continued to grow our commercials and profile across the region, amassing a stellar client base in Europe. SOLID HAVAS has been a terrific partner and having them part of HAVAS Red will enable us to build and strengthen our value proposition across the region.” “We’ve been fortunate to work already with a wonderful portfolio of clients across HAVAS in Greece and Europe, and this expansion represents a significant milestone for us. With this new chapter, we are poised to be even more powerful and integrated partners for these clients on everything from social media to experiential to public relations,” said Ioanna Leoussi, managing partner of SOLID HAVAS. Earlier this year,?HAVAS Red announced its market entry in Japan and the Ivory Coast (its second office in Africa). The addition of Greece brings HAVAS Red’s presence to 20 markets, including Australia, China, Cote d’Ivoire, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Middle East (U.A.E., Saudi Arabia and Oman), the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, the U.K., the U.S. and Vietnam.  2023 marked another period of strong growth and performance for HAVAS Red, which was named Campaign’s?Global PR Network of the Year and shortlisted for Global Agency of the Year in the PRWeek Global and PRWeek Purpose awards. In?Australia, India, the Middle East, Spain and the U.S.,?HAVAS Red also took home Agency of the Year honors. The agency’s roster of clients include Toyota, Pernod Ricard, adidas, Domino’s, Far East Hospitality, Sun Life, Yuu, Merex Investment, Galderma, Sanofi, Novartis, the U.K. Department of Education, IKEA Foundation, Molson Coors, Meltwater, ManpowerGroup, UNICEF, Baddoo and Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, among others.  In August 2024, HAVAS Red introduced Industry by HAVAS Red, an end-to-end strategic communications service designed to help B2B clients drive meaningful connections with audiences across their value chain. Other global offerings from HAVAS Red include Peaks, its award-winning multichannel executive branding support; SWAY by HAVAS Red, an end-to-end influencer marketing service; Red Impact, a global offering that brings together its ESG and sustainability expertise; Health by HAVAS Red, a specialized offering focused on health and wellness; and Red Connect, a B2B content marketing practice.
https://theprpost.com/post/8674/

Google Cloud reviews PR agency support

Google Cloud is currently evaluating its public relations agency partnerships, according to PRovoke Media. A spokesperson for the company stated: "We value our agency partners and their role in our success. As we move into 2025, we recently issued an RFP to assess the agency landscape and ensure we have the right strategic partner in place to support our evolving business. This is part of our regular process.” Google Cloud has recently been working with Nectar Communications. Last week, the company shortlisted finalists from a pool of agencies that responded to an RFI issued in September.The RFI outlines the Google Cloud comms team's search for an agency of record to serve as a "trusted partner and extension of the organization's team." The ideal agency will be responsible for managing and executing effective communication strategies that elevate Google Cloud and Google Workspace's brand presence, increase mindshare among key audiences and industries, and drive business growth.
https://theprpost.com/post/8664/

Acorn Strategy’s Kate Midttun joins Future Communicators board

Kate Midttun, Founder and CEO of Acorn Strategy, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Future Communicators Foundation (FCF). Midttun, a trailblazing entrepreneur who became the first female to receive Abu Dhabi’s prestigious Golden Visa, continues to lead Acorn Strategy, an award-winning communications agency based in the UAE. The agency is also partnering with FCF to offer an annual scholarship, providing aspiring communication leaders with financial support and mentorship to foster future talent in the industry.
https://theprpost.com/post/8663/

Shakespeare Communications to handle PR for Oxygen

Dubai-based boutique PR agency Shakespeare Communications has partnered with Oxygen, a CRM integration and digital marketing firm operating across China and Dubai. Oxygen, a HubSpot Diamond Solutions Partner, brings extensive expertise in CRM integration, digital transformation, and AI-driven marketing strategies. Notably, Oxygen is the first HubSpot Solutions Partner in China, a title it has held since 2013, which has cemented its leadership in the digital space.Oxygen's impressive track record includes winning ten HubSpot Impact Awards since 2019, reflecting its exceptional performance in delivering innovative solutions. The company has also earned a seat on the prestigious HubSpot Partner Advisory Council (PAC), a recognition of its influence and contribution to HubSpot’s ecosystem.Through this partnership with Shakespeare Communications, Oxygen aims to strengthen its presence in the UAE, leveraging its specialized knowledge to help businesses streamline their operations using HubSpot's powerful CRM, AI, and automation tools. This collaboration marks a significant step in furthering both companies’ impact in the Middle East digital marketing landscape.For Oxygen, this partnership aligns with its goal to become the leading HubSpot partner in the region, as it continues to expand and assist companies in harnessing the full potential of digital tools and strategies
https://theprpost.com/post/8662/

The PC Agency expands global presence with new teams

The PC Agency, a leading luxury travel PR and trade marketing consultancy based in London, has recently expanded its global footprint by establishing new teams in Dubai, Riyadh, Sydney, and New York. This move is a part of the agency’s ambitious strategy to strengthen its presence in key international markets and better serve its growing client base in the travel and hospitality sectors.As part of this expansion, Sydney-based Katie Moine has been appointed Managing Director of Asia Pacific and Middle East. With an extensive background in travel marketing and PR, Katie is well-positioned to lead the agency's operations in these regions, bringing over two decades of experience in the industry. Additionally, Nicole Trakkas has taken on the role of Vice President for the Middle East, based out of Dubai, to enhance the firm’s capabilities in this strategic region.The PC Agency, founded by Paul Charles, is recognized for its expertise in representing high-end travel brands such as airlines, hotels, and tourism boards. The agency is also known for its award-winning campaigns and crisis communication strategies, having built a strong reputation in both the traditional and digital arenas.
https://theprpost.com/post/8661/

Column Inches retains India Accelerator PR mandate for third year

Column Inches, one of India’s fastest-growing Public Relations agencies, proudly announces that it has secured the PR mandate for India Accelerator, the country’s leading startup accelerator, for the third consecutive year. As part of this ongoing partnership, Column Inches will continue to serve as the official PR partner, spearheading nationwide media activities and communications.Column Inches will formulate and execute impactful media engagement strategies designed to amplify India Accelerator’s brand visibility across various channels of the media. The PR firm will also focus on enhancing the company's messaging and building nationwide communication initiatives, press events, media planning, and ongoing outreach activities.Through customized PR strategies, Column Inches aims to further strengthen India Accelerator’s reputation as a leader in the startup ecosystem, ensuring that its role as a mentor and investor in the startup space is well-recognized across the media landscape.Commenting on the renewed partnership, Ashish Bhatia, Founder of India Accelerator, said, “We are thrilled to extend our collaboration with Column Inches. Over the past two years, their strategic approach has significantly enhanced our visibility, helping us communicate our value to the startup ecosystem. We look forward to continuing this successful partnership as we further expand our reach and impact.”Sanya Bajaj, Founder and CEO of Column Inches, shared her excitement, stating, “It’s an honor to continue working with India Accelerator, one of the most prestigious accelerators in the country. Our goal remains to craft meaningful, results-driven communication strategies that drive growth for the organization. We are committed to delivering impactful PR outcomes that support India Accelerator’s mission of fostering startup success.”Headquartered in Gurugram (Delhi/NCR), Column Inches has a strong portfolio of clients spanning various industries, including tech-led startups and multinational corporations. Since its inception in 2015, the agency has supported over 400+ startups and SMEs in achieving their corporate communication goals through strategic, value-driven PR campaigns.
https://theprpost.com/post/8660/

Ayushakti partners with Treize Communications for their PR

Ayushakti, one of the leading and most trusted ayurvedic health centres around the world has partnered with Treize Communications, a 9-year-old Communication Consultancy and Public Relations firm, founded by Sonam Shah, for their PR and Communications.As part of the mandate, Treize Communications will be handling the Offline and Online PR for Ayushakti and their co-founder Smita Naram, who is a well-accomplished Ayurvedic physician, pharmaceutical herbalist, and nutritionist. The agency will be responsible for getting her featured in a timely and strategic manner in new-age media outlets, thus enhancing and escalating the overall brand recall.Ayushakti is a well-established Ayurveda company which was co-founded by Ayurveda expert Dr. Smita Pankaj Naram in 1987. They have played an integral role in creating awareness of Ayurveda across the globe including Asia, the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the UK.Speaking on the association, Smita Naram, Co-Founder at Ayushakti said, “In today's time, having a strong media presence is very important. Digital medium has grown a lot, and it helps us in helping people to know about Ayurvedic tips easily. Having the right presence on digital and print is essential.”“PR is a key tool for any consumer-facing brand, as it adds a lot of value and benefits. We have worked with Sonam and her team in the past and are excited to partner once again for our long-term vision.”Speaking on the association with Ayushakti, Sonam Shah, Founder and CEO, Treize Communications, said, “We are grateful to Dr. Smita and the team at Ayushakti, for believing in us and keeping faith in our work. It’s always a pleasure to work with them and we look forward to our association.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8659/

Abundantia Entertainment appoints Branquila to lead brand & comm

Abundantia Entertainment, one of India’s premier content creators and producers, has appointed Branquila Brand Ventures (BBV) as its agency to manage the company’s corporate brand and communications mandate. Branquila will handle the brand’s comprehensive mandate, encompassing corporate brand communication strategy, digital marketing, public relations and creative communication. Vikram Malhotra, Founder & CEO of Abundantia Entertainment, shared his thoughts on the appointment, "We are at a pivotal moment in Abundantia’s journey. on the back of a creatively successful and financially solid last few years, we are now ready to enter a new phase of growth to expand our storytelling and business footprint. Branquila brings a fresh perspective and an innovative approach to brand marketing, and we are excited to work with Sandeep and team as we amplify Abundantia’s presence across the entertainment landscape.Echoing the sentiment, Vasundhara Adukia, Head – Marketing and Communications at Abundantia Entertainment added, ““The Abundantia brand is built on the core of differentiated and progressive storytelling. Our vision for brand Abundantia is to be the preferred choice of creative and business collaborators and our work and values constantly need to reflect that. We are delighted to collaborate with Branquila, in who, we believe, we have found the right partners for the growth journey that lies ahead”.Sandeep Dahiya, Founder & CEO of Branquila Brand Ventures, commented, "We are excited to partner with Abundantia Entertainment, a brand known for bringing pathbreaking stories to life - across screens, across geographies, and across genres. He further added, “Given Vikram’s vision, we’re looking forward to playing a role in Abundantia’s next phase of growth.”Abundantia Entertainment has been one of the major success stories to emerge out of the content landscape in the last few years and has notched up an enviable body of work across motion pictures and streaming ecosystems. With several critically acclaimed and commercial hits like Baby, Airlift, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Shakuntala Devi, Sherni, Chhorii, Jalsa and the globally acclaimed series Breathe and Breathe: Into the Shadows Abundantia’s filmography includes work with celebrated and talented creators as well as superstar and breakthrough actors and the company has also been a partner of choice for studios and streaming platforms given its consistently successful track record. 
https://theprpost.com/post/8658/

Ashley Madison selects Pitchfork Partners for communications in India

Mumbai-based communications agency, Pitchfork Partners Strategic Consulting LLP, has been appointed as the strategic communication counsel for Ashley Madison, the world’s leading married dating site. As a platform, Ashley Madison is renowned for offering its users a discreet space to explore personal relationships with a like-minded community. As part of the mandate, Pitchfork Partners will drive the holistic communication narrative and manage the PR, social, and digital mandate for Ashley Madison in India.     With its global presence in 45 countries, the platform empowers people to navigate relationships with discretion and utmost respect for privacy. As it expands its footprint in India, the collaboration with Pitchfork Partners will enable Ashley Madison to create an engaging communication and digital strategy built to resonate with the cultural sensitivities of the country. The approach will focus on positioning Ashley Madison as a service that provides members with access to like-minded individuals who are looking to explore their desires and connect discreetly.    Sharing his thoughts about the partnership, Paul Keable (Chief Strategy Officer, Ashley Madison), shared, “We look forward to expanding our operations in India and growing our global membership base, which now exceeds 85 million since the site’s inception in 2002. In this endeavor, we rely on the expertise of Pitchfork Partners to help us effectively communicate with both existing and prospective users and to establish our platform as a safe and secure space for discreet connections.”Speaking about the appointment, Jaideep Shergill, co-founder of Pitchfork Partners Strategic Consulting, said, “We are excited to collaborate with Ashley Madison. Our approach to building thoughtful communication and digital strategies for the brand is in line with their commitment to providing a non-judgmental and like-minded space for personal exploration. Together, we look forward to creating a positive narrative that respects the cultural fabric of India while supporting Ashley Madison's growth in the market.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8649/

Gozoop joins forces with Vicara PR to boost Independent marketing network

Gozoop, an Independent marketing group, in a significant move to elevate its service offerings and amplify its growth trajectory, has signed a JV with Vicara PR, a Mumbai-based Public Relations firm. This strategic collaboration aims to create a comprehensive Public Relations division for Gozoop Group, enhancing its service offerings and driving mutual growth. The partnership is designed to harness the strengths of both organizations, delivering significant benefits. By merging Vicara PR's specialized knowledge in public relations with Gozoop's extensive digital marketing capabilities, the joint venture aims for a 100% growth in the next 12 months, bringing in new clients and expanding Gozoop's reach into key sectors. Through this collaboration, Gozoop Group will enhance its service suite with specialized public relations services to navigate new-age brands' unique challenges and opportunities.Joint Ventures, Mergers & Acquisitions has been a growth strategy of Gozoop ever since its acquisition of Red Digital in 2013. Most recently the group announced a JV GZPure to strengthen its media capabilities. Jigar Chatwani, Co-Founder, Vicara PR, expressed, "We're excited to join forces with Gozoop Group as a creative PR division that merges our expertise. This partnership will enable us to develop innovative communication strategies that enhance brand narratives and proactively address real-time challenges. By combining Vicara PR's strengths with Gozoop’s digital marketing prowess, we’re set to deliver impactful solutions that benefit both our organizations and our clients, driving growth and resilience in today’s competitive landscape."Rohan Bhansali, Co-Founder & Chairman at Gozoop Group, added "Our partnership with Vicara PR marks a significant step towards realizing our vision of building India’s own homegrown advertising network. The stellar team at Vicara brings in solid domain expertise, independent thinking and a strong alignment towards the Gozoop value system. By integrating Vicara’s PR prowess, we'll amplify our capabilities to provide integrated solutions to our clients.”Aiming to capture a significant market share, Gozoop Group and Vicara PR project a significant revenue increase in the first year of their new PR division. This comprehensive partnership will deliver innovative communication solutions, empowering brands to thrive in a competitive landscape.GOZOOP’s clients include Indian and International brands such as OPPO, Amazon Mini, Tim Hortons, Saint Gobain, Mashreq Bank, Damac and Oman Insurance. 
https://theprpost.com/post/8639/

Ardent announces PR partnership with The Fred Hollows Foundation

The Fred Hollows Foundation has appointed independent full-service agency Ardent to lead its upcoming PR campaign following a competitive pitch.The Australian-owned Ardent will support the Foundation with earned media relations, ambassador recruitment, influencer engagement, and social media amplification for its two major 2024 fundraising events: Fred’s Big Run and the Sydney Harbour Hike.With a 30-year legacy, The Fred Hollows Foundation has restored sight to over 3 million people across 25 countries, including Indigenous Australian communities. The campaign, powered by Ardent's strategic creativity, aims to build awareness and loyalty among a new generation of supporters.Esther Au, Head of Communications at The Foundation, highlighted the role of community events in advancing their mission to eliminate avoidable blindness globally. Ardent COO Elouise Hahn praised the partnership, crediting the agency’s holistic approach and creative solutions.This appointment adds to Ardent’s growing list of not-for-profit clients, including Whiddon, Action on Poverty, HeartKids, Spinal Cure, and several leading schools.(Image: The Ardent Communications Team)
https://theprpost.com/post/8638/

Microsoft taps Boden to boost Hispanic outreach

Microsoft has selected Boden Agency as its PR agency of record to strengthen its connection with the Hispanic community in the U.S. Through this partnership, Boden will collaborate with Microsoft's multicultural communications team to create and execute PR initiatives that effectively engage this key audience. The agency was chosen following a competitive pitch process.Boden’s role will involve supporting Microsoft's internal team with earned media relations, creator engagement, and digital content development. In addition, they will help implement Microsoft's long-term communications strategy, focusing on enhancing the company's brand affinity with the Hispanic community.A key aspect of Boden's work will be to enhance the digital reach and presence of Conexiones, Microsoft's storytelling hub, which emphasizes education and audience engagement.“We’re thrilled to partner with Boden Agency to evolve our communications strategies with this pivotal audience. Our intention is to more closely connect Microsoft’s mission of empowering everyone on the planet to achieve more, with the needs of the Hispanic community in the US,” said Amanda O’Neal, Microsoft’s senior director of multicultural and social media communications. “As our strategic communications partner, Boden’s concentrated, sustained, and culture-first approach will expand our strategic storytelling to bring the community closer to the latest technology, including AI.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8637/

The Mavericks India wins integrated communications mandate for CHOSEN

Pure-play management advisory The Mavericks India has won the integrated communications mandate for CHOSEN, a clinical-grade skincare startup dedicated to promoting overall well-being through innovative skincare solutions for Skin of Color, with a focus on Indian skin types. With a mission to redefine the way we approach skin health, CHOSEN is committed to revolutionising the skincare industry by understanding the molecular foundations of beauty and providing holistic solutions that ensure healthy and youthful longevity for all. The mandate includes strategic media outreach, integrated campaign planning and execution, and strategic counsel for the brand.  Founded in 2020 by Dr Renita Rajan, the brand addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals with Skin Of Color (SOC). Over the last 4 years, CHOSEN has developed a diverse range of skincare products, including cosmeceuticals, topical application products, and nutri-cosmetics. These products are specifically designed to address the unique needs of Indian skin types and are free from endocrine disruptors. The brand's commitment to innovation is evident in its ongoing development of new products, with 30 more slated for launch by the end of the coming year.Dr Renita Rajan, Founder, CHOSEN, said: “We believe that true skin health goes beyond surface-level treatments. By combining clinical research, evidence-based medicine, and data-driven insights, we develop innovative skincare products that deliver long-term benefits. Our approach is rooted in understanding the root causes of skin issues and providing targeted solutions that promote overall well-being. In tandem, we’d like for our marketing and PR efforts to go beyond the functionality, by helping consumers truly understand and embrace their skin-vestment journeys. You therefore need a partner who thinks alike and is equally driven by evidence-based innovation. We're happy to have partnered with The Mavericks as our strategic communication partner and are looking forward to changing the way Indian skincare storytelling is done.”Chetan Mahajan, CEO, The Mavericks India, said: "We're thrilled to partner with CHOSEN, a brand that perfectly embodies our commitment to crafting compelling purpose-driven campaigns. Dr. Renita Rajan's innovative approach to skincare, rooted in evidence-based research, offers a unique opportunity to retell the true skincare story. CHOSEN’s dedication to revolutionising the skincare industry aligns seamlessly with our values, and we're excited to contribute to their mission of promoting holistic skin health."
https://theprpost.com/post/8641/

Communications leaders face pressure to validate PR efforts: Outleap study

A striking 90% of CEOs express confidence in their ability to accurately measure the impact of PR and marketing on profitability, sales, and brand recognition, according to a new report by Outleap, a collective of global technology PR agencies. In stark contrast, only 69% of CCO/CMOs and 72% of other communications and marketing leaders share this confidence.The report says that there is a significant gap between how CEOs and communications/marketing leaders perceive the most effective methods for measuring marketing campaign success. This difference in perception offers an opportunity for communications leaders to reevaluate their strategies for delivering value and measuring impact.This divide extends to budget allocation. Specifically, 34% of communications leaders have been asked to change their reporting methods to justify their PR budgets, compared to only 28% of marketing leaders. Moreover, 40% of leaders withunchanged communications budgets this year have faced similar requests, whilea mere 13% of those with increased budgets have. This suggests that those withstagnant budgets are under greater pressure to validate their PR efforts.Interestingly, says the report, many CEOs are pushing for product-led campaigns, reflecting their belief that product understanding is the key metric for assessing campaign success. However, CCOs and CMOs prioritise brand awareness (48%) and company reputation (44%) as the most valuable metrics for evaluating the impact of PR and social media efforts. This view is shared by marketing and communications managers to VPs, who focus on brand awareness (61%) and company reputation (44%).The new global growth playbookcomms leaders are the neW strategic decision-makers While sales have historically been the growth drivers for the business, a clearpicture is emerging of both communications and marketing leaders driving growth. Today, more than two in five (44%) of comms leaders are directly involvedin business strategy. But despite this shift based on the challenges faced over the past year, more than half (51%) are still developing reactive communications recommendations based on existing business strategy. This shows there is a significant opportunity for many communications leaders to take a more active role, especially when it comes to overseas expansions. After years executing top-down strategy as key “doers” in their respective organisations, they are now being called upon to become key decision makers for broader business strategy. This is being driven by two key reasons, which are both related to a new era of tactical growth.The first is an increasing level of understanding of how communications and brand marketing impacts an organisation. The second is the critical need for brand awareness to support expansions into overseas markets. After the value of addressable market (38%), 16% rank already having customers in the market as their most important consideration, and 13% feel existing brand awareness is the most important factor. However, the research also shows that there is still a lack of understanding at CEO level of what is involved in brand marketing and communications. This is being driven by some outdated narratives that marketing should onlybe product-led and ROI-driven. CEOs reported the best way to measure the impact of public relations and social media is product understanding (59%) with share of voice a very distant second(33%). But CCOs and CMOs think the best ways to measure the impact of PR and social media campaigns is brand awareness (48%) and company reputation (44%).Marketing and communications managers to VPs think the best ways to measure the impact of PR + social are brand awareness (61%) and company reputation (44%).When it comes to driving growth with marketing spend, digital marketing is the priority across organisation sizes. It’s not the only growth driver though — for nearlyhalf of later stage organisations, brand strategy is driving the most growth.The report has revealed that companies are adopting new strategies to navigate the evolving global landscape. The report, titled "The new global growth playbook," highlights a shift away from the "growth at all costs" mentality and towards a more targeted and disciplined approach.• Key Findings:• Targeted Expansion: Companies are now focusing on specific markets with untapped potential, rather than expanding into every market available.• Strategic Communication: Communication and marketing leaders are playing a more critical role in business decisions, particularly in overseas expansion.• Brand Building: Building brand awareness is becoming a top priority for companies, as it helps establish a foothold in new markets.• Measurement and Education: There is a growing need for new ways to measure the impact of marketing campaigns and communicate their value to CEOs.• Challenges and Opportunities:• Disagreements between CEOs and communication leaders on how to measure marketing success.• Macroeconomic factors impacting growth.• Opportunities for communication leaders to take on more strategic roles.• Case Study: Speechmatics: The report features a case study of Speechmatics, a company that successfully pivoted its marketing strategy to achieve growth by focusing on brand building and targeted marketing.The report emphasizes the importance of strategic communication and targeted marketing for successful global growth in today's economic climate. Companies that can adapt to these new strategies will be better positioned to thrive in the competitive global market.
https://theprpost.com/post/8643/

Aster DM Healthcare appoints Nalla Karunanithy as CEO of Digital Health & E-Comm

Aster DM Healthcare, the largest integrated healthcare provider in the GCC, has announced the appointment of Nalla Karunanithy as CEO of its Digital Health & E-Commerce division. This strategic move aims to bolster the company’s digital health initiatives and drive the expansion of its myAster platform across the GCC.The appointment comes as myAster, a comprehensive healthcare super-app, continues to lead the region’s digital health transformation. With over 2 million app downloads and 4.37 million lives impacted, myAster has experienced significant growth, becoming a key player in delivering digital healthcare solutions in the UAE. The app’s monthly active users now exceed 750,000, underscoring the rising adoption of digital health services in the region.myAster offers a seamless, integrated healthcare experience through features such as appointment booking, teleconsultations, e-commerce, and home delivery. Recent enhancements include the introduction of Health Profile and Lab on App, which enable users to monitor key health metrics and access prescriptions, lab results, and radiology reports in one place.Nalla Karunanithy, with 15 years of experience in digital and technology leadership, is expected to lead the next phase of growth for myAster, driving innovation and expanding its reach. He brings a track record of successful digital transformations across various industries, including launching the region’s first unmanned grocery store and autonomous warehouses.Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare, emphasized the significance of digital transformation for the healthcare sector in the Middle East. “Digital transformation is the way forward, and the growth of myAster is a testament to this trend. With Nalla’s expertise, we are confident in taking our digital health arm to the next level as we continue expanding in the region.”Karunanithy expressed excitement about his new role, highlighting plans to leverage AI and data analytics to further enhance patient care. “My focus will be on driving innovation to create seamless, patient-centric digital experiences that make healthcare more accessible, predictive, and personalized,” he stated.The appointment aligns with Aster DM Healthcare’s broader vision of revolutionizing the healthcare experience through technology, setting new standards for convenience, quality, and patient empowerment across the GCC.
https://theprpost.com/post/8614/

PR is a long-term game, it’s not something that happens overnight: Komal Rukhana

In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has undergone a sea change. More brands and clients, especially from the leadership teams, are viewing Public Relations from a close range. The industry has undergone a radical change with the advent of social media, which has to a large extent changed the approach to Public Relations. We have a relatively new and young audience that we need to face in the coming years so there are bigger challenges for brands and PR practitioners, who have to be more agile and proactive in their thinking to draw up business solutions for clients.In our weekly column, PR Conversation, Adgully speaks with industry leaders to gain exclusive insights into trends shaping the PR and communications world.In conversation with Adgully, Komal Rukhana, Co-founder of Mint & Milk PR, speaks about the inspiration behind the agency’s unique name, their approach to helping brands stand out in a crowded market, and how they build compelling brand stories. She also shares strategies for repositioning established brands and talks about the impressive growth of Mint & Milk PR from a team of 4 to over 40, fostering creativity and innovation along the way. As a female-led agency, Rukhana reflects on the work culture that drives their success and much more.Why did you choose the name "Mint & Milk" for your agency? How does it resonate with the values and mission of your company?We chose "Mint & Milk" to represent fresh ideas ("Mint") and transparency ("Milk"), which are at the heart of our agency’s vision. Our focus is on delivering innovative marketing strategies with integrity, tailored to purposeful businesses and conscious consumers. Our mission is to help entrepreneurs and tastemakers create lasting impact through intentional and unique storytelling.In a market crowded with start-ups, how do you consistently help brands carve out a unique identity? Could you share your approach to building effective brand stories in today’s competitive landscape?Our approach to building unique brand identities starts with staying ahead of trends through deep research and consumer insights. We constantly track what resonates most with audiences and adapt accordingly. By fueling our creativity and encouraging clients to embrace bold, out-of-the-box ideas, we help brands stand out and capture attention in a crowded market. It’s all about understanding the pulse of consumers and crafting stories that make a lasting impact.Over the past seven years, you’ve led over 100 successful campaigns. Could you walk us through a few standout campaigns, such as MyMuse or SOEZI, and share what made them unique in terms of strategy and execution?Of course, the uniqueness of the brands speaks for itself, but we focused on simple yet impactful strategies, especially since both MyMuse and SOEZI came to us as start-ups with limited resources.For MyMuse, the challenge was breaking the stigma around sexual wellness. We took a lifestyle-focused light-hearted approach, framing the conversation as essential to overall health and happiness. By collaborating with lifestyle publications, influencers, and experts, we transformed the narrative from taboo to open and inclusive. The results were remarkable—we saw influencers reaching out to work with the brand, journalists eager to interview the founders, and publications recognizing their journey through awards and panel invitations.With SOEZI, we aimed to stand out in the crowded space of celebrity brand launches. Leveraging Sonakshi Sinha’s strong social media presence, we created a buzz by hinting at her engagement with a cleverly placed ring in a post. This fun, playful approach not only sparked massive speculation but also drove early media coverage and interviews, making the brand launch truly unforgettable.Rebranding KALKI Fashion as an affordable luxury brand was a major achievement. How do you approach repositioning established brands to ensure the narrative resonates with both current and new audiences?KALKI’s management has always had a very strong, goal based approach, which is the most important aspect. They ensured internal alignment, making sure that everyone—from the brand’s core team to external collaborators—understood and embraced this new direction. We then broke down the larger goal into smaller, achievable targets, each designed to build credibility and trust for this new positioning. By collaborating with the right influencers and tastemakers, we created strategies that felt both aspirational and relatable. Every piece of communication was carefully crafted to speak the same language—luxury that feels accessible—ensuring the narrative resonated with KALKI’s loyal audience while attracting a fresh, discerning crowd. The key was making the transition feel natural yet exciting, and that's where the strategy really came to life.Your portfolio spans from streetwear to intimate wellness and luxury decor. How do you adapt your strategies for such diverse industries, ensuring the campaigns hit the right notes for each audience?When working with such diverse industries—whether it's streetwear, intimate wellness, or luxury decor—the fundamentals of PR stay the same, but it's all about adapting to the right audience. For us, it's exciting to tap into new industries, especially with collaboration being so big right now. The strategy shifts depending on the brand’s goals and target group, and once we’ve nailed that, things flow more smoothly. It might sound simple, but getting it right involves months of research, fine-tuning, and close coordination with the brand to ensure everything hits the right note.You’ve helped international brands like French Connection Watches and D1 Milano gain visibility in India. What are some of the unique challenges of introducing international brands to the Indian market, and how do you overcome them?Working with international brands in the Indian market comes with its own set of challenges. Lead times for approvals can be lengthy, which sometimes slows down momentum. Plus, working within strict international guidelines limits the room for creativity and experimentation. However, we overcome this by finding innovative ways to localize the brand’s messaging while staying true to their global identity, ensuring campaigns resonate with Indian audiences while maintaining the brand’s integrity. It’s about balancing structure with creativity.Under your leadership, Mint & Milk PR has grown from a team of 4 to over 40. What do you believe has been the key to this growth, and how do you nurture creativity and innovation within your team?Mint & Milk’s growth from 4 to over 40 has really come down to two things: adaptability and resilience. We've learned to work with new generations, playing to their strengths and staying on top of market trends. Resilience is just as important—things don’t always go as planned, but having a solution-focused approach keeps us moving forward. To keep creativity alive, we make sure the team feels free to share fresh ideas, and we're always open to new ways of doing things. It’s about staying flexible and keeping things fun and innovative!As a predominantly female-led organization, what kind of work culture have you cultivated at Mint & Milk PR, and how has this contributed to the agency's reputation for reliability and excellence?At Mint & Milk PR, we’ve cultivated a culture driven by collaboration and creativity, thanks to our incredible team of smart, motivated women. From day one, I’ve been fortunate to work with strong female leaders, and now I’m proud to lead a team that brings unique insights and practical solutions to our clients. Our shared drive for success, both personally and as a company, has helped us earn a reputation for being reliable and delivering great results. It’s about supporting each other while doing the best work for our clients.The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point for many businesses, including yours. Could you share how you adapted and maintained momentum using digital events and Instagram Lives during this period?The pandemic taught us the power of adaptability. When the world slowed down, we embraced virtual experiences and online collaborations to stay connected and relevant. This shift wasn’t just a necessity but an opportunity to rethink how we engage with clients and audiences. By embracing new methods of interaction, we found creative ways to maintain momentum and evolve with the changing landscape. It was a lesson in flexibility that not only helped us thrive but also reshaped how we approach business, keeping us ahead of the curve.Looking ahead, you’re planning to expand into industries like technology, art, and travel. What excites you most about these sectors, and how do you plan to approach them from a PR perspective?I’m really excited about expanding into tech, art, and travel! Tech is fascinating because it’s evolving so quickly here in India, and the innovations really challenge us to think outside the box. Then there’s art—it’s such a beautiful, authentic space that allows for limitless expression. I love how it feels unbound and free.And travel? That’s a personal passion of mine! I’ve always enjoyed exploring new places and dreaming up creative ways to showcase them. Each of these sectors brings fresh storytelling opportunities, and I can’t wait to dive into them from a PR perspective!When developing a brand’s position in a crowded market, how do you ensure the messaging not only differentiates the brand but also fosters long-term audience loyalty?Creating a strong brand position in a crowded market really comes down to two key things: time and consistency. We always tell our clients that PR is a long-term game—it’s not something that happens overnight. By delivering consistent messaging over time, we build real connections with niche audiences, which helps foster loyalty. It’s like planting seeds and nurturing them; when done right, you end up with a thriving relationship that really resonates. That’s how brands stand out and stick with people!
https://theprpost.com/post/8615/

Truecaller appoints Seema Jindal as Head of Public Affairs, Telecom

Truecaller, one of the leading global communications platform, has appointed Seema Jindal as the Head of Public Affairs, Telecom in India. Seema joined Truecaller following a distinguished 25-year career at Airtel, where she held multiple key roles in regulatory, interconnection, and compliance roles in different telecom business units within Airtel.Most recently, she served as the Head of Regulatory Affairs for DLT, DTH, Teleports, VSAT and Head of Compliances & Audit for Regulatory. She was instrumental in spearheading the implementation of an intricate and innovative regulatory framework on telecommunication spam based on Digital Ledger Technology. Her work involved defining and interpreting complex regulations, ensuring compliance across multiple business units and managing relationships with regulators/licensors.At Truecaller, Seema will work closely with government ministries and agencies such as TRAI, DoT and MEITY to ensure regulatory and policy support for Truecaller’s continued growth and innovation in India.
https://theprpost.com/post/8616/

Tushar Makkar joins ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India as Head of Corp Comm

Tushar Makkar has been appointed as the Head of Corporate Communications at ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India. He announced his new role on LinkedIn. Before joining ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel, Makkar served as Senior Vice President at Adfactors PR. He also held the position of Group Chief Communications Officer at GMR Group for four years.Throughout his career, he has managed communications for various prominent brands and companies, including Arvind Group (Lalbhai Group), SAP India, Microsoft India, and IBM India & South Asia.
https://theprpost.com/post/8621/

PRP Group appoints Shailja Patyal into its Senior Leadership Team

PRP Group today announced the appointment of Shailja Patyal as Vice President of PR Professionals, marking her return to the senior leadership team. With a robust background in communications and marketing strategy, Shailja brings over 16 years of industry experience to her new role.In her position at PR Professionals, Shailja will concentrate on enhancing client management and servicing. Her strategic vision will focus on aligning teams to improve stakeholder engagement and ensure effective communication with clients. Renowned for her collaborative approach, she has a unique talent for uniting diverse teams to leverage collective expertise and achieve common objectives. Before her return to PRP Group, Shailja held significant roles with multinational companies such as SMEC – A Surbana Jurong Group, Systra India, and IL&FS, where she showcased her strategic acumen and leadership capabilities.Shailja’s extensive background includes expertise in Marketing Strategies, Organizational Development, People Communications, Client Relationships, and Conflict Management. Her educational credentials are impressive, featuring an Executive MBA in Strategic Business Management from IIM Kolkata, an MBA from IIPM, New Delhi, and a Master’s in Electronics & Communications from DAVV University, Indore.Dr. Sarvesh Tiwari, Founder & Managing Director of PR Professionals, expressed his excitement about Shailja’s return: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Shailja back to the PRP Group. She was instrumental in our early days, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company’s foundation and her return brings valuable experience and strategic insight that will propel PRP forward.”Shailja Patyal shared her enthusiasm about rejoining PR Professionals, stating, “Coming back to PR Professionals feels like a homecoming. The warm reception from the team and management has been incredible, and it feels as though I’ve never been away. I am excited to collaborate with this talented team and contribute to the company’s ongoing success in my second innings with PRP.”PR Professionals, established in 2011, is a leading integrated communications agency renowned for delivering exceptional branding and public relations solutions. The agency is dedicated to helping businesses achieve market leadership while engaging in meaningful philanthropic activities. Confianza Consulting, another PRP Group company, offers a comprehensive range of human resource solutions, including talent acquisition, performance management, compliance, and employee engagement. PRP Group has expanded to 12 offices across India and six international locations, reflecting its commitment to excellence and growth.
https://theprpost.com/post/8611/

Bahlsen appoints Aduro Communications for UK Campaigns

Aduro Communications has secured Bahlsen, the renowned biscuit brand, as its latest client following a competitive four-way pitch.The agency has been tasked with managing Bahlsen's social media, press, and influencer programmes in the UK, as well as supporting key campaigns in 2025. Notably, there was no previous agency handling the account.Aduro will oversee communications during major sales periods starting this autumn, covering Bahlsen’s entire product range, including popular brands like Choco Leibniz and Pick Up!.Bahlsen UK Marketing Manager Michelle Green expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are incredibly impressed with Aduro’s expertise and commitment to their approach. Having a true partnership with an agency is critical to drive impact and we’re excited to start delivering standout and salient campaigns together, putting Bahlsen into the hearts and minds of UK consumers.”Aduro Communications founder and MD Natalie Luke also shared her excitement, adding, “After adding some of the nation’s favourite tea brands to our portfolio last year, next on the list had to be our favourite biscuits. We couldn’t be prouder to add Bahlsen to the Aduro stable, in what has been a stand-out year for the business across all sectors.”Bahlsen now joins an impressive roster of clients at Aduro, including TATA Consumer Products (Tetley/Teapigs), Kerry Dairy Consumer Products, Hain Daniels Group, Homebase, and Pharmacare.
https://theprpost.com/post/8610/

W Communications expands to Iceland with new office

Independent agency W Communications is expanding its global footprint with the opening of its fourth international office in Iceland, operating under the name W/Nordic.The agency had previously collaborated on projects in Iceland with consulting firm Instrument and advertising agency Brandenburg. The new office, located in Reykjavik, will be led by Kristjáni Schram, Vice-President of W/Nordic, who will oversee a team of two full-time employees at launch. Schram will continue his role as lead strategist and partner at Instrument. Lucy Austin, W's International Vice President, based in London, will coordinate the operations across all global offices.W Communications owner, Warren Johnson, explained that the new venture will allow Icelandic companies to leverage W’s extensive global network, which includes operations in London, New York, and Singapore. It will also provide global brands with a strong presence in the Nordic region.“We have seen a huge appetite from Icelandic brands and companies in further globalising their business, not only from a commercial point of view, but sharing the wealth of innovation and ingenuity they provide,”* said Johnson. *“The country's geographical position also provides a natural connective opportunity between North America and Europe, especially in the Nordic countries.”Johnson emphasized the importance of local insights for global campaigns, saying, “Global campaigns are most effective when informed by hyper-local insights and activated through trusted partners, which is why our collaboration with Instrument is an important link in our plans in Iceland.”W Communications now boasts a global team of around 200, working with renowned brands such as Sony, Unilever, British Airways, and Disney.
https://theprpost.com/post/8609/

MY PR names Sergio Pisano as First Partner

MY PR, the Italian corporate communications and reputation advisory firm, has appointed Sergio Pisano, the former CEO of Hill & Knowlton Italy, as its first partner. Pisano will collaborate with founding partners Giorgio Cattaneo, CEO, and Stefania Mercuri, COO, as part of the agency's senior leadership team to drive its next growth phase.Pisano brings a wealth of experience to MY PR, having led Hill & Knowlton Italy since 2021. Before that, he was general manager and CEO of iCorporate, where he played a pivotal role in growing the company from a start-up in 2014 to a well-established business. His career also includes positions as general manager of Publicis Consultants Italia and heading the corporate and financial division at Mavellia MS&L (now MSL).MY PR, which has a 22-person team, has doubled its fee income over the last three years and is gearing up for its 2025-2028 strategic plan. This plan focuses on expanding the firm’s services, team, and exploring new opportunities both in Italy and internationally. MY PR is already part of the GlobalCom PR network, which operates in more than 70 countries.Commenting on the appointment, Cattaneo said, “We chose Sergio as our new partner because we share the ambition of being able to innovate the offer and business model of consulting companies in the PR sector.”Reflecting on the firm's journey, he added, “Our entrepreneurial journey started 25 years ago and has developed mainly in two practices, corporate & finance and brand & innovation. The next chapter will be made up of new platforms and consultancy services as well as operational activities useful to the communication and marketing departments and C-levels of our customers and the market.”Cattaneo also highlighted upcoming initiatives: “Fresh approaches and new communities for content creation and talent communication management, a revamped strategic advisory platform, and the development of new skills in broadcasting and analyst journalism are some of the topics that we will address together with Sergio and those who will join this journey.”
https://theprpost.com/post/8607/

BC Web Wise wins Social Media Mandate for TATA Power

BC Web Wise has been awarded the end-to-end social media mandate for TATA Power, one of India’s largest integrated power companies, in a partnership set to redefine how the brand engages with its audience across digital platforms.As a leader in the energy sector, TATA Power has been at the forefront of innovation, particularly in the renewable energy space. The company has been increasingly focusing on digital transformation to connect with a broader audience and foster a community that supports green initiatives. The social media mandate awarded to BC Web Wise is thus a crucial part of this transformation, aiming to leverage social platforms to drive engagement, build trust, and communicate TATA Power’s commitment to a sustainable future.
https://theprpost.com/post/8602/

The Romans to lead Audi Middle East’s PR efforts

Audi Middle East has appointed The Romans, an independent creative communications agency, as its new PR partner in a three-year contract aimed at boosting the brand's presence across key markets in the region. This partnership comes as Audi prepares for a series of upcoming marketing initiatives that highlight its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and electric mobility.Elmir Arnautovic, Communications Director at Audi Middle East, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in light of the rapidly evolving mobility sector. He commented: "Audi is entering an exciting and critical new phase. To successfully grow our brand during this period, we need fresh ideas and integrated thinking. The Romans impressed us with their ability to use PR as a true brand-building tool, standing out from the conventional approaches we often see in the industry."The Romans, known for taking on projects that challenge the status quo, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. Joe Lipscombe, Partner at The Romans, shared: "Audi is one of the most iconic automotive brands globally, and its focus on design, innovation, and sustainability is truly inspiring. The goals they've set are ambitious and challenging, and we're eager to bring our unique strategic and creative expertise to support Audi in this transformative time for the industry."The partnership aims to help Audi navigate this competitive era while reinforcing its leadership in the automotive sector.
https://theprpost.com/post/8601/

The Romans to lead Audi Middle East’s PR efforts

Audi Middle East has appointed The Romans, an independent creative communications agency, as its new PR partner in a three-year contract aimed at boosting the brand's presence across key markets in the region. This partnership comes as Audi prepares for a series of upcoming marketing initiatives that highlight its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and electric mobility.Elmir Arnautovic, Communications Director at Audi Middle East, emphasized the importance of this collaboration in light of the rapidly evolving mobility sector. He commented: "Audi is entering an exciting and critical new phase. To successfully grow our brand during this period, we need fresh ideas and integrated thinking. The Romans impressed us with their ability to use PR as a true brand-building tool, standing out from the conventional approaches we often see in the industry."The Romans, known for taking on projects that challenge the status quo, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. Joe Lipscombe, Partner at The Romans, shared: "Audi is one of the most iconic automotive brands globally, and its focus on design, innovation, and sustainability is truly inspiring. The goals they've set are ambitious and challenging, and we're eager to bring our unique strategic and creative expertise to support Audi in this transformative time for the industry."The partnership aims to help Audi navigate this competitive era while reinforcing its leadership in the automotive sector.
https://theprpost.com/post/8594/

MSL India strengthens Organic, its digital offering with key promotions

Organic by MSL, MSL India's digital communications practice, has strengthened its leadership team with key elevations to better serve clients' strategic and creative needs in a dynamic media environment. A 150-strong operation, Organic sits at the confluence of creativity, communications, and platforms, reaching diverse stakeholders across touchpoints. The business has been growing steadily with unique offerings and prominent client wins having been recognised with 20+ awards in the last year alone. Tushar Bajaj, MD Organic by MSL, said, "I am delighted to share the promotions of our two leaders in shaping the future of Organic. We are incredibly lucky to have in-house talent with a unique understanding of audiences and risks and being able to power solutions with innovation and creativity.”Vidhi Thakur has taken on the role of Chief Operating Officer for Organic by MSL in addition to leading the integrated Social Sector practice, Mobilise. She has spent over a decade at the firm, working in PR and strategy, and she has had a stint in MSL Hong Kong. Over the last four years, leading client engagement for Organic and building the social sector practice, she has been instrumental in driving operational efficiencies and expanding the capabilities and in her new role, she will be responsible for integrating core capabilities across the entire digital team and driving strategic growth for the business. Sharing her thoughts on the elevation, she said, "I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Organic by MSL. MSL is where I have had the privilege to grow and evolve alongside an incredible team witnessing firsthand the agency's transformation and our remarkable achievements together. Our collective dedication to innovation and excellence has shaped my journey here. I look forward to leading us into the next chapter of our growth. Srishti Gairola has been elevated to lead the creative duties as National Creative Director in addition to her role as EVP leading the west for Organic by MSL. Her experience leading creative client solutions in India and Singapore enables her to drive the expanded creative capabilities Organic now offers with multiple award wins across major industry platforms recognising this progress. In her new role, she will drive the creative charter forward, bringing new innovations and digital thinking to marketing and corporate communications mandates, helping clients stand out from the content clutter surrounding us, and influencing their audiences to take action. Srishti on her new role said, “We've been hard at work at Organic, building a future-ready team and bringing home some of the best and most innovative brands in the country. The success we've seen is a direct result of that hard work. We now have some of the best creative talent in the industry and I am super excited at what we can deliver for our clients. Commenting on the changes, Amit Misra, CEO of MSL South Asia, said, “Organic by MSL has grown from being 10% of our business to now contributing to 50%. The team has augmented our strong public relations offering, allowing us to cater to the diverse and evolving needs of our clients."