Kaizzen, a leading independent communications agency, has announced the strategic appointment of Suresh Rangarajan as Senior Vice President – South. With over 25 years of experience across both corporate and agency roles, Suresh is a seasoned communication leader known for crafting impactful narratives, fostering strong stakeholder relationships, and driving business growth through strategic communications.Suresh’s appointment aligns with Kaizzen’s commitment to deepening its presence in South India. In his new role, he will be instrumental in expanding Kaizzen’s business, strengthening client partnerships, and leading high-impact communication strategies across key sectors in the region.Welcoming Suresh to the team, Vineet Handa, CEO of Kaizzen, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Suresh to team Kaizzen as Senior Vice President for South," said Vineet Handa, CEO, Kaizzen. "Kaizzen today has a well-established footprint in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai. I feel he will be one of the strong flagbearers of our services and culture as we continue to grow our service offerings, geographic presence and people strength."Suresh brings deep expertise in technology, telecommunications, and automotive sectors. His dynamic leadership, combined with a solutions-driven approach, will help Kaizzen deliver best-in-class services, create competitive advantages for clients, and drive significant business growth.Nikhil Pavithran, COO of Kaizzen, added, “Suresh’s expertise will not only help expand our client portfolio but also play a crucial role in scaling our specialized verticals. With his addition to our leadership team, we are confident in achieving new milestones in South India.”Expressing his enthusiasm, Suresh Rangarajan said, “Joining Kaizzen at such an exciting phase of its growth is truly inspiring. Today, communication is not just about storytelling—it’s about building purpose-driven narratives that foster trust, shape perceptions, and drive real business impact. South India is a thriving center for innovation and entrepreneurship, and I look forward to collaborating with our talented teams and valued clients to craft strategies that make a meaningful difference. Kaizzen’s commitment to excellence and its expanding global footprint make this an exciting opportunity to set new benchmarks in integrated communications.”With a career spanning over two decades, Suresh has held key leadership positions across top PR consultancies and corporate brands, including Tata Motors, Vodafone India, Nissan Motor India, and Concept PR. Having led brand communications on a pan-India scale, and working closely with global teams, he is recognized as a global-minded communicator.

 Kaizzen, a global award-winning integrated communications consultancy, launches Public Affairs Advisory Services as a new business vertical. This strategic portfolio expansion reinforces Kaizzen’s commitment to providing a comprehensive solution that addresses the evolving needs of businesses and institutions operating in a dynamic regulatory and policy landscape. The Public Affairs vertical has been established to address the growing need for dedicated policy advisory services and to support organizations in navigating the ever-evolving policy landscape, facilitating effective engagement with key stakeholders, and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable business growth. With India's rapid socio-economic development and rising global stature, there is an increasing demand for well researched representation to support business continuity and growth. In view of this, the Public Affairs vertical will offer services such as stakeholder mapping, government engagement, policy advisory & advocacy, issue management, legislative tracking, research, and narrative building."I strongly believe policy formation will play a pivotal role in India’s vision of becoming the third-largest economy by 2030 and in achieving our net-zero goals. With Kaizzen’s Public Affairs practice, we aim to enable policy formation by bringing leaders, experts, industry, government, and think tanks together," said Vineet Handa, Founder and CEO of Kaizzen.Handa further added, "With the launch of Kaizzen Public Affairs, Kaizzen will complete its service offerings and further strengthen its growth trajectory."To lead the newly launched vertical, Kaizzen is excited to welcome two eminent professionals. Jitendra Lall comes on board as a Senior Director, bringing over 27 years of experience in managing compliance, approvals, business continuity, and policy amendments across various sectors. Additionally, Kalyan Ranjan joins as an Advisor, with over 32 years of expertise in Public Relations, Corporate Communication, Public Affairs, CSR, and Sustainability. An alumnus of Jawaharlal Nehru University and the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Mr. Ranjan has held leadership positions, including at Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, and is known for his philosophy, "Together, we grow." Their combined expertise will immensely enhance Kaizzen's capabilities in navigating and influencing policy formulation."I am elated to join Kaizzen and contribute to the inception of the Public Affairs vertical. With our collective experience and a shared vision, we aim to create a robust platform to support the sustainable growth of businesses and innovation. We will collaborate towards cultivating meaningful stakeholder outreach and engagement, aligned with the government’s aim to enhance ease of doing business,” said Ranjan.

Frido, a pioneer in ergonomic solutions with over a decade of innovation, has joined hands with Kaizzen as its strategic communications partner to reinforce its mission of enhancing everyday quality of life. Known for its research-driven, thoughtfully designed products, Frido continues to lead the way in improving comfort, posture, and mobility, bringing a sense of freedom and ease to households across India. With this collaboration, Frido seeks to strengthen its brand narrative, building on its legacy of groundbreaking innovations and delivering high-quality, affordable products that redefine ergonomic living.  Over the years, Frido has introduced iconic solutions such as the Frido Go, the first self-propelled shower wheelchair; Dual Gel insoles; and the suitcase-folding commode wheelchair. Expanding its portfolio, the brand now offers lifestyle-enhancing products like the Ultimate Mattress, Deep Sleep Pillows, and ergonomic cushions, all designed to help individuals walk, sit, and sleep better. Sharing his vision for the partnership, Ganesh Sonawane, Founder and CEO of Frido, said, "At Frido, our mission is to make daily living effortless through thoughtfully designed products. Partnering with Kaizzen marks an important milestone in reaching our audience more effectively. With their expertise in strategic communication, we aim to showcase how Frido enhances comfort and accessibility for 100M+ Indians.” Kaizzen, a globally recognized and award-winning integrated communications agency, brings over 16 years of expertise in delivering impactful campaigns across public relations, digital marketing, and corporate communication. Renowned for combining local insights with global expertise, Kaizzen’s strength lies in its ability to craft and execute seamless, innovative communication strategies on a global scale.On the association, Nikhil Pavithran, Chief Operating Officer at Kaizzen, stated, "Frido's dedication to transforming everyday living through innovation resonates strongly with our philosophy at Kaizzen. We are thrilled to partner with them on this journey, leveraging strategic communication to highlight their impactful solutions. Together, we aim to build a powerful narrative that not only establishes Frido as a leader in ergonomic living but also inspires a future where comfort and accessibility are universal priorities. This partnership underscores our commitment to driving innovation and creating lasting value for brands and their audiences." This partnership stresses Frido’s relentless drive to lead the industry in ergonomic solutions while delivering on its promise to make freedom and comfort an integral part of everyday life. Through this collaboration with Kaizzen, Frido aims to inspire a future where innovation, accessibility, and ease of living are accessible to all.

Kaizzen, a leading integrated PR and digital agency, has announced the elevation of Nikhil Pavithran to the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO). In addition to his new role, Pavithran will spearhead the agency's expansion and operations in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.Pavithran shared the news of his promotion through a LinkedIn post, marking another milestone in his association with Kaizzen, which began in 2018 when he joined as Vice President for the Mumbai region. His leadership journey saw him rise to Group President, a role in which he played a pivotal part in driving the company’s growth and success.Before joining Kaizzen, Pavithran honed his expertise in public relations and media strategy through impactful roles at Percept as Vice President and at other organizations like Fluid Media and Eulogy. His diverse experience and strategic insights have been instrumental in shaping innovative communication campaigns across industries.

As we conclude another year, it is essential to reflect on the key developments, challenges, and achievements that have shaped different sectors throughout the past 12 months. The year 2024 has been marked by dynamic shifts, rapid innovation, and the continued adaptation to both external factors and emerging trends.Adgully’s annual feature – REWIND – revisits different sectors and identifies the key developments as well gauges the long-term impacts of those developments. We speak to a cross-section of industry leaders to bring a 360-degree view of the industry landscape, the growth trends, financial performance, disruptions, innovations, challenges and more.In this Rewind 2024 article, Nikhil Pavithran, Group President, Kaizzen, shares his insights into the year’s defining trends and developments that shaped the PR industry and the Indian economy at large. Highlighting Kaizzen’s performance during the year, Pavithran sheds light on the key achievements and milestones that marked the company’s journey in 2024.PR’s growth in 2024The story of PR is one of constant evolution. While the tools and techniques have advanced, the core essence of connecting with audiences, managing reputations, and crafting compelling narratives remains unchanged. From an economic perspective, the Indian economy has shown remarkable resilience, navigating challenges with agility and emerging as a beacon of opportunity. This resilience mirrors the adaptability of our industry.Despite global uncertainties, sectors like PR, communication, and digital marketing have flourished, driven by the growing importance of transparency, accountability, and authentic engagement.Kaizzen’s journey this year reflects this synergy between tradition and innovation. The future holds immense promise, and our commitment to evolving with the times while preserving our timeless core ensures that our industry will continue to shine as a vital force in shaping narratives and building connections.Trends and developments in PRThe fields of PR, communication, and digital marketing are driven by three key trends: Speed, Seamlessness, and Relationships.Speed: In a fast-paced digital world, swift and strategic responses to news and trends are essential. Tools like social listening, AI analytics, and automation help brands stay relevant.Seamlessness: With user-generated content and influencers shaping narratives, integrating digital and traditional strategies ensures consistent and trustworthy messaging.Relationships: Strong ties with journalists, influencers, and customers remain fundamental, fostering credibility and creating advocates to amplify brand messages.The synergy of these pillars, alongside advancements like AI, AR, and VR, helps combat misinformation while enhancing the value of earned media. Adapting to these trends enables professionals to shape impactful, trustworthy brand perceptions.Kaizzen’s growth story in 2024Kaizzen evolved from being a digital and communications agency to offering a broader range of services, including advocacy, public affairs, investor relations, and Global Sustainability Communication (GSC). This diversification strengthened our ability to cater to the dynamic needs of our clients.We successfully launched Kaizzen Global, opening an office in Dubai and establishing a network of partners in over 80 countries. This move has positioned us as a globally connected agency capable of delivering on international mandates seamlessly. Kaizzen was ranked the 7th fastest-growing agency in the world by the prestigious Provoke Rankings in 2024.Our journey has been marked by enduring relationships. The three clients we started with continue to partner with us, a reflection of the trust and value we bring to our collaborations.Our biggest achievement remains our people. We are proud to be a people-first agency, with team members who joined in our first year still with us today. This highlights our commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive work environment.2024 was a year of transformation and milestones for Kaizzen, reinforcing our position as a leading global agency with a focus on innovation, relationships, and people.Kaizzen - Crafting compelling narrativesKaizzen is a leading integrated communication agency with operations across the globe. Offering 360-degree solutions, it caters to diverse sectors, including corporate, technology, lifestyle, healthcare, education, real estate, startups, government, hospitality, financial services, entertainment, and energy. Key services include Public Relations and Communications, Digital Marketing in addition to various ancillary services like design, video production, web UI/UX, and technology solutions, enabling seamless communication.Kaizzen helps businesses craft compelling narratives, build brand visibility, and foster trust through integrated campaigns, media relations, influencer collaborations, and digital strategies, making it a one-stop solution for all branding needs.

On the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Kaizzen hosted a remarkable art session led by two talented teenagers, Khushii Kohli and Yash Bangia, from the Arts and Souls Foundation. These young artists showcased not just their creative prowess but also the power of inclusion and empathy, proving that art transcends labels and challenges.The session, held at Kaizzen's office, went beyond teaching how to hold a brush—it was about breaking barriers and fostering connections. Khushii and Yash guided the Kaizzen team through an inspiring creative journey, transforming a blank canvas into a vibrant masterpiece with the help of palette knives, art combs, and paintbrushes. Now, that very artwork adorns the office walls, symbolizing creativity, collaboration, and shared humanity."This experience was a poignant reminder of our privileges and the importance of gratitude," said Vineet Handa, CEO of Kaizzen. "Witnessing our team connect with Khushii and Yash while creating something beautiful was truly magical. It was a day of colors, kindness, and lessons in humility."The event was graced by Radhika Shaporjee, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The collaboration was organized in partnership with Arts and Souls Foundation, which uses art as a medium of expression for neurodivergent children. The young artists were accompanied by their mothers, whose unwavering support plays a pivotal role in nurturing their growth and spreading awareness about autism.Suvidha Ohri, Head of Marketing at Arts and Souls Foundation, shared her deeply personal journey: "When my son was diagnosed with autism, my initial reaction, shaped by the corporate mindset, was to 'cure' him. Over time, I realized he wasn't someone who needed fixing but rather understanding and support. Today, I am grateful for the perspective he has given me—he taught me to see life differently and to advocate for environments where children on the spectrum can thrive."This inspiring event underscores Kaizzen's commitment to celebrating abilities, diversity, and the human spirit. The artwork created during the session now stands as a vibrant reminder of what is possible when diverse talents come together, transcending labels to create something extraordinary.

Kaizzen, an award-winning integrated agency, has announced Kaizzen Global – it's own extensive network and trusted global partners to provide real-time knowledge and service excellence across the globe. Building on years of global recognition and industry-leading innovation, this new venture is driven by a strategic vision for the future, creative storytelling, and devotion to accomplishing impactful outcomes.  Kaizzen already has a proven track record of delivering customized communication campaigns around the world, including local PR and digital consultancy. With our current and expanding network, Kaizzen will be able to swiftly deliver across 80+ markets in the US, Europe, Australia, MENA, APAC, Africa and South America.  “Kaizzen Global will offer a comprehensive suite of services that extend beyond traditional PR, encompassing strategic communications, digital marketing, crisis management, ESG consulting, and more. Kaizzen set up its first global footprint in Dubai last year. Now, we are scaling our expertise to help businesses adapt, innovate, and lead in today’s competitive market. Kaizzen Global represents not just growth but a transformation in brand communication, staying ahead of the curve to ensure that our clients not only thrive but also shape the future of the industry.” Vineet Handa, Founder and CEO of Kaizzen. Kaizzen Global will be a collective platform, forming an exclusive alliance of independent communication agency partners. The partners along with Kaizzen will offer professional expertise to clients in projects and retainers. Our partners will enjoy the benefit of market referrals and will have the first right of refusal. The network will also include localized knowledge sharing and on – ground insights services. A win – win situation for our collective clients who can enjoy value adds and expanded services on request while the partner will enjoy exclusive servicing rights in their respective markets.  Ranked as the 7th fastest growing agency worldwide (PRovoke), Kaizzen in its 17th year of existence, has grown exponentially in size, network, client base, business and operations. With 200+ storytellers, 7 offices and 80+ market presence across the globe, Kaizzen is committed to providing the best to our clients anytime and anywhere.  

NeoNiche, a digital-first full service marketing company, has appointed Kaizzen as its new public relations partner. Kaizzen will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive communications strategy to enhance NeoNiche's brand awareness, media relations, and corporate reputation. Through strategic initiatives and targeted campaigns, Kaizzen will leverage its PR expertise to reinforce NeoNiche’s presence in key markets and support the company’s ambitious growth plans.NeoNiche, a leader in advanced integrated marketing solutions and innovative technology, is committed to delivering exceptional experiences and setting new industry benchmarks. NeoNiche's mission is to build an organization that values individuals, nurtures relationships, and drives innovation. By 2025, NeoNiche aspires to be one of India's leading full-service marketing companies, excelling in people practices, customer satisfaction, and revenue generation. This vision underscores their commitment to nurturing a supportive environment for team members, consistently delivering outstanding service to clients, and achieving sustainable growth through innovative strategies.NeoNiche founder-CEO Prateek N Kumar said: “In the post-pandemic world, the event industry has felt a tectonic shift, demonstrating remarkable agility, rapidly evolving across formats with innovation and technology at its core. This dynamic landscape compels us to continually develop groundbreaking solutions and reinvent ourselves to showcase India's expertise on a global stage. NeoNiche is at the forefront of this transformation, and we believe our partnership with Kaizzen will only fuel our growth further. With their deep understanding of the industry, we are poised to set a new benchmark for global scale, inspiring and transforming businesses worldwide.”Kaizzen Group President Nikhil Pavithran said: “Brands have changed the communication syntax to interact with stakeholders and experiential outings have become a major part of this new methodology. That being said, the event, exhibition, and marketing industry has also witnessed a remarkable growth, and with this partnership with NeoNiche, we want to bring about a comprehensive understanding to all stakeholders, about the possibilities of tomorrow. With their suite of products and services, in-house expertise and drive to innovate, NeoNiche has the potential to be the pioneers of the desired change in sector, charting the way forward. With equal onus on bringing about change to the media and marketing industries, we look forward to amplify NeoNiche’s visibility and propagate meaningful conversations across the spectrum.”The collaboration between NeoNiche and Kaizzen marks the beginning of a new era of digital innovation. Together, they hope to establish industry norms, drive change, and impact the future of businesses.

Winners of the fourth edition of IMAGEXX Awards 2024 were felicitated amid loud cheers at a glittering ceremony in Gurugram yesterday (July 18, 2024). This year saw over 35% increase in the number of entries received from agencies and corporate across the country.Adfactors PR walked away with the top honours this year, being adjudged PR Agency Of The Year.Kaizzen won the PR Agency Of The Year award (Jury’s Choice), while PR Professionals was declared PR Agency Of The Year (Adgully’s Choice).Best Independent PR Agency Of The Year was Media Mantra. The Right PR was declared Emerging PR Agency Of The Year.Candour Communications walked away with the Specialist Consultancy/ Firm Of The Year award. Teamwork Communications Group won the award for Specialist Consultancy/ Firm Of The Year (Jury’s Choice), while Genesis BCW was adjudged Specialist Consultancy/ Firm Of The Year (Adgully’s Choice).Deepak Jolly of Consocia Advisory was declared Communicator Extraordinaire Of The Year.

Client Associates (CA), India's premier Multi Family Office and Private Wealth Management firm, headquartered in Gurgaon, has onboarded Kaizzen to amplify financial awareness in Tier 2 cities across India. Over the past 22 years, CA has established a significant presence in major metropolitan cities, including Gurugram, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Patna, Kochi, and Ahmedabad. This partnership signifies a joint commitment to fortify the brand's presence through strategic communications support and corporate reputation management, which will enhance both brand and spokesperson visibility. By leveraging Kaizzen's expertise, CA aims to expand its reach and impact in Tier 2 cities, ensuring more individuals and families benefit from informed wealth management practices.Through a series of exclusive knowledge sessions, CA will address topics pertinent to High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) and Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNIs) families, including Estate Planning, Immigration, Tax, Alternate Investments, Private Wealth Management, Alternate Investments and more. These initiatives are designed to ensure that HNIs and UHNIs are well-informed and financially savvy. In recent years, CA has partnered with many leading industry bodies dealing with HNIs and UHNIs, conducting Client Engagement Programs (CEP) and webinars. These efforts have helped families gain valuable insights into wealth management, estate planning, and investment strategies, thereby enhancing their financial well-being.Amit Chauhan, Associate VP – Marketing & PR, Client Associates stated, " "With the growing number of HNIs and UHNIs in Tier 2 cities, there lies a tremendous opportunity to enhance financial awareness and literacy. Client Associates (CA) is a one-stop platform for the financial needs of HNIs and UHNIs. With a 22-year legacy of handling over 1100+ families, our expertise in wealth preservation and creation should be accessible to individuals across all regions of India.”“CA is committed to creating experiences that are not only engaging but also memorable for our clients. We believe that financial education should go beyond mere information dissemination; it should involve interactive and immersive experiences that resonate on a personal level. By combining data-driven insights with personalized interactions, we ensure our clients not only understand their financial options but also feel deeply connected to their financial strategies. This approach empowers our clients to make informed decisions and builds long-term trust and loyalty. With this partnership with Kaizzen, we aim to achieve this goal and extend our reach to these emerging markets." – Chauhan added.Vineet Handa, Founder and CEO of Kaizzen, added, "We are incredibly excited for this partnership and look forward to the execution of innovative and high-impact communication strategies. Over the past sixteen years, Kaizzen has catered to the BFSI segment and established itself in the segment. The current mandate will help build our strengths in this vertical even further.” By combining their strengths, Client Associates and Kaizzen are poised to make a substantial impact on financial awareness and spread awareness across India.

Leading Indian PR firm Kaizzen, known for its integrated communications approach, has secured funding from Maven Corporate Advisors in 2023. This investment has led to a shift in the company's ownership structure, with Maven acquiring a majority stake, according to sources. Vineet Handa, founder and managing director of Kaizzen, retains a significant share and remains at the helm, with no plans for his departure. Notably, Puja Handa has stepped down as director, while new board members Karan Singh Surjit and Krupa Dashsathbhai Limbachiya have been appointed. While the specific nature of Maven's involvement beyond financial backing remains unclear, sources indicate the investment is aimed at fueling Kaizzen's ambitious growth plans.Kaizzen has set its sights on doubling its turnover in the 2023-2024 fiscal year compared to the previous year, aiming to reach a target of ?50 crores. The secured funds will be strategically deployed to expand its service offerings in key areas like government relations and investor relations. Additionally, the company plans to leverage the investment to establish a presence in Dubai, further solidifying its regional footprint.Kaizzen's funding announcement comes amidst a significant period of consolidation within the Indian PR landscape. Over the past two decades, the liberalization of the Indian economy has seen a steady influx of international PR firms seeking a foothold, either through independent ventures or acquisitions of local players. Examples include Burson Marsteller's acquisition of Genesis PR in 2005, MSL's purchase of Hanmer and Partners in 2007, Cohn & Wolfe's acquisition of 6 Degrees PR in 2015, and WE Communication's acquisition of Avian WE in 2018. Notably, Edelman also acquired a 50% stake in R&PM, led by Roger Pereira, in 2005.India presents a unique scenario in the global PR market. Adfactors PR, an independent firm, stands out as the undisputed leader in terms of size. This independence stands in contrast to the challenges faced by international network firms struggling to achieve significant growth in the Indian market. As a result, India is rapidly emerging as a hotspot for these firms seeking expansion opportunities. Mid-sized and independent firms like Kaizzen are well-positioned to capitalize on their agility, creativity, and ability to better align their services with the working cultures of Indian companies. This unique offering could prove to be a major advantage in the competitive years to come.

We are in a new era of Public Relations. In the last few years, the importance of reputation management has taken 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 column – PR Conversation – Adgully interacts with leading business leaders and obtains their exclusive views and insights on the various trends in the PR and communications industry.In conversation with Adgully, Vineet Handa, Founder & CEO, Kaizzen, speaks at length about the agency’s 16-year journey in the PR industry, how PR strategies should adapt to effectively collaborate with influencers while maintaining brand authenticity and credibility, the significant challenges brands are facing due to the rise of vocal audiences expressing negative views, how the PR industry can adopt proactive strategies for better preparedness, and more.Congratulations on completing 16 years! Looking ahead, how do you envision the PR industry evolving and adapting to emerging trends and challenges over the next five years? What are your predictions for the future of PR?Thank you so much. It is surreal to think that it has been 16 years. I remember on our anniversary last month I was addressing the team-mates. I told them then that when I look back, I realize that there has never been a dull moment; there have been good days and some bad ones, but never a dull one, and that has kept me going. The industry is so dynamic, there is always something new. And there is always a chance to learn, grow and evolve.In the future also, PR is likely to continue evolving in response to shifts in technology, media consumption habits, and societal values.While the use of AI and technology will rise, I firmly believe they are enablers, not solutions. These tools enhance our capabilities, but it’s our brains that must leverage them effectively.The future lies in the integration of traditional media and digital platforms. This integration is already underway and will become even more streamlined. Platforms are central to this future – today, even news is customized based on our search and consumption histories.In a world of fake news, traditional media will retain its credibility, serving as a trusted source of verified information and reliable journalism amidst the proliferation of misinformation.With the rise of vocal audiences expressing negative views, how do you think this poses a challenge for brands, and what strategies do you believe the PR industry should adopt to be better prepared for such scenarios?When we embrace new trends, we must embrace it with all its pros and cons. The digital world has democratized not only content creation and distribution, but it has also given consumers a powerful voice, allowing grievances to spread rapidly and potentially damage a brand’s reputation. It is not new and has been happening for some time now. However, some important points to consider for both the brand as well as the agency are:The best strategy is to always be authentic and transparent in your communication. This helps build trust with audiences and fosters a more positive perception of the brand.Do not ignore!! Ignoring negative feedback is not an option. Brands must actively monitor and engage with their audiences across all platforms. Each platform holds significance, and it is crucial to take charge of each medium to address issues effectively. However, it is necessary to differentiate between legitimate concerns and misinformation or fake news. We need to be careful, yet we need to be proactive. Never shove it below the carpet, but address the crisis, you as an official source have the power to control the narrative.Educate, Inform and Engage: As an agency, we have been taking this approach to deliver brand message to the journalist fraternity over the last many years. First, we educate the fraternity about the brand, then inform via regular updates; this results in effective engagement from journalists. We must take the same approach for influencers as well. By fostering understanding and alignment between the brand's message and its advocates, brands can effectively navigate challenging situations and both the brand, and the partner will be on the same page.With the growing influence of social media influencers in shaping brand perception, how do you think PR strategies should adapt to effectively collaborate with influencers while maintaining brand authenticity and credibility?When it comes to credibility, earned media and platforms with strong reputations are key. These are the benchmarks for trustworthy information. Influencers, while valuable, have not yet reached the same level of credibility. At present, they can complement earned media, but cannot fully replace it.There are many challenges we see as far as content creators and influencers are concerned and it ranges from loyalties towards brands – there are various examples of well-known influencers endorsing competing brands. Additionally, while there are differing reports on the exact percentage of fake followers, reports suggest that on an average in India 50% of followers in influencer accounts are fake. Paid reach also raises questions about authenticity, and sometimes the target audience alignment is off. Over time, these issues should improve, leading to better outcomes from influencers.Despite these challenges, I firmly believe that influencers as a category and business are here to stay. The future will see the continued evolution of different platforms, which will shape the landscape of influencer marketing. Building long-term relationships based on mutual trust and understanding can lead to more authentic and impactful influencer partnerships.As a PR professional, how can you assist brands in avoiding such issues in the first place through proactive steps and strategic planning?Elaborating on where we left off in the first question, authenticity and transparency is the most important in brand building. You can’t build a legacy brand without proper alignment of your offerings and promises. As a PR professional, helping brands avoid issues through proactive steps and strategic planning is crucial and one thing I have learnt is that being genuine in communication fosters trust and positive perception always. Ignoring negative feedback is not an option, especially since silence from the brand can be construed as a failure from their side, or as the brand hiding something; brands must actively monitor and engage with their audiences across all platforms, addressing issues effectively while distinguishing between legitimate concerns and misinformation.As an agency, we have always prioritized educating and informing the journalist community about the various brands we work with, and now we follow the same approach for influencers too. By fostering understanding and alignment between the brand’s message and its advocates, brands can effectively navigate challenging situations and ensure both the brand and its partners are on the same page.Could you share insights into the ‘Kaizen’ approach of leveraging technology to optimize engagement for brands, especially in the context of handling moment marketing challenges?Moment marketing is a ‘me too’ thing now. When we work with brands, we play the long game and always advise brands to be the trendsetters and not the trend jackers. Moment marketing is a trend and while it is important to be able to jump into it when we see trends, as a brand we should know which trends to jump into and which ones to pass. At the end of the day, what we stand for regularly and do continuously is how the audience connects with us.In today’s world, smartphones are not just devices, but powerful tools that enable people to expose, share, and report information instantly. Such a small device, but so powerful. With technology like this in people’s hands, managing without it is impossible. Today, we must be comfortable using the best online reputation management (ORM) tools that are core to our listening and monitoring. Similarly effective engagement tools are crucial for understanding, interacting, and responding to audiences. Additionally, tools that measure the success of campaigns, whether it is via earned mediums or influencer-driven, are vital.Technology also simplifies content creation, making it indispensable in our industry. As the industry evolves, leveraging technology is essential for delivering successful outcomes.

Integrated communications agency Kaizzen has announced its partnership with RedBeryl, a luxury lifestyle management company. This collaboration aims to enhance RedBeryl's communication strategy, focusing on brand awareness, thought leadership and reputation management which will subsequently enhance company’s growth initiatives.RedBeryl offers unparalleled access to the finest experiences, exclusive events, and a dedicated team of lifestyle experts. Driven by a passion for excellence, RedBeryl paves the gateway to an elevated life, ensuring that each moment is remarkable. The company’s vision is rooted in the vision of the founder; Manoj Adlakha’s commitment to providing impeccable membership services in India, is to curate bespoke experiences that leave lasting impressions.Kaizzen CEO Vineet Handa said: “We are incredibly excited about this strategic partnership with RedBeryl. Their dedication to creating exclusive and personalized experiences positions them as a leader in the luxury lifestyle management sector. Our goal is to amplify RedBeryl’s visibility, enhance their brand reputation, and engage in meaningful conversations with the media. We look forward to contributing to their communication strategy and supporting their growth trajectory.”RedBeryl Founder-CEO Manoj Adlakha said: “At RedBeryl, we believe that life should be full of unforgettable moments. Partnering with Kaizzen resonates with our aim of providing our valued members with unique, tailored experiences. We are delighted to collaborate with Kaizzen, and their expertise in strategic communications will significantly raise our market visibility and support our ambitious growth objectives.”RedBeryl’s core values of exclusivity, personalization, attention to detail, and exceptional service are at the heart of everything they do. These values guide their mission to deliver unforgettable moments that reflect the individuality of their members.This collaboration with RedBeryl further diversifies Kaizzen’s portfolio of clients across various sectors such as lifestyle, corporate, HR, start-ups, and technology. Vineet added: “Over the past 16 years, Kaizzen has established itself as a leading multi-practice and full-service PR and digital media agency. We are confident that our expertise will significantly enhance RedBeryl’s public relations and brand reputation, delivering maximum ROI for them.”

Kaizzen, a leading independent Communications Agency, announces the strategic appointment of Ankita Malik as Vice President-North. With more than 14 years of experience in the communications industry, Ankita brings a wealth of expertise in crafting impactful strategies and fostering client relationships.Ankita's appointment underscores Kaizzen's commitment to enhancing its presence and service offerings in the Northern markets. In her new role, Ankita will spearhead initiatives to drive growth, expand client engagement, and elevate Kaizzen's standing as a trusted partner for strategic communications solutions across verticals."We are thrilled to welcome Ankita to our team as Vice President for North," said Vineet Handa, CEO, Kaizzen. "Her proven track record of delivering results and her deep understanding of the communications landscape will be instrumental in propelling our North operations to newer heights. Ankita's strategic vision and leadership will undoubtedly reinforce Kaizzen's position as a preferred communications partner in the region."Ankita’s expertise spans technology, telecommunications, auto, and lifestyle sectors. With her dynamic leadership, Ankita is poised to deliver top-notch services and drive competitive advantages for products and services, bolstering Kaizzen's revenue portfolio.Welcoming her to the team, Nikhil Pavithran, Group President, Kaizzen said, “Ankita’s experience will not only help us in growing Kaizzen’s portfolio but will also be instrumental in expanding our other specialized verticals. With her appointment, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering diverse leadership perspectives and working towards a more inclusive organization. I welcome her formally on-board and wish her the best.” "I am excited to embark on this new journey with Kaizzen and contribute to the company's continued success," said Ankita Malik. "The opportunity to lead the North operations presents an exciting challenge, and I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Kaizzen to deliver unparalleled value to our clients."Ankita has served on senior counsel teams and contributed to renowned PR consultancies such as Zeno Group, MSL Group, and Six Degrees BCW. She has also led marketing communications for notable brands like Intex Technologies and Comio Smartphones. With over 14 years of experience, Ankita has managed brands across India, China, the USA, and APAC regions, showcasing her versatility and global perspective. Based in New Delhi, she brings a wealth of international expertise to her role at Kaizzen.

 Zeno has announced the appointment of Prashant Subramanian as the National Practice Lead - Corporate. With more than 18 years of experience across sectors, Prashant will play a vital role in expanding Zeno India’s corporate practice. Based in Gurugram, Prashant will work closely with Rekha Rao, Managing Director for Zeno India.“The addition of Prashant with his wealth of experience across sectors coupled with Zeno’s unique corporate offerings will help deliver strategic thinking and real impact to clients in India,” said Rekha Rao, MD, Zeno Group India. “Zeno is known for keeping in step and leveraging timely developments in the communications sector to innovate and provide real business impact. Prashant will also be integral in delivering our latest technology-backed integrated marketing services to the market.”Prashant’s expertise extends across various industries, including , public health, pharma, healthcare, FMCG, media & entertainment, consumer technology, ed-tech, health-tech, ai, robotics, banking, and financial services, among others. With a strong foundation in public relations, strategy development, advocacy, campaign, and project management, he has consistently delivered impactful communication solutions that align with organizational objectives.On his move to Zeno, Prashant said "I am enthusiastic about joining Zeno during this crucial phase of the organization's progression. Zeno's distinguished global perspective coupled with its use of innovative contemporary methods to provide effective communications for clients, has consistently defined its identity. I look forward to partnering with the skilled team at Zeno to cultivate robust corporate practice. I am confident that my background and expertise will contribute significantly to Zeno's success and enable us to leverage emerging opportunities and realizing our long-term vision."Prashant occupied pivotal agency positions including Vice President – North at Kaizzen prior to joining Zeno. Additionally, he made notable contributions while working with corporate giants like Ansal Properties and Infrastructure Limited, a prominent real estate conglomerate; and SG Cricket, the world's largest cricket equipment manufacturer, where he served as the Brand & Category Head.To learn more about Zeno and its capabilities visit ZenoGroup.com or on social media at LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. 

LS Digital, a leading independent digital marketing transformation (DMT) company, has awarded their PR and communications mandate to Kaizzen, a leading integrated communications agency, following a multi-agency pitch. Kaizzen’s mandate encompasses managing LS Digital's communication strategy, media relations, and corporate reputation. Through strategic initiatives and targeted campaigns, Kaizzen will leverage its expertise to further strengthen LS Digital's presence in key markets and support the company’s ambitious growth plans.LS Digital is committed to revolutionizing the digital landscape by placing digital marketing transformation (DMT) at the premise of its brand identity, with its specialised business units Langoor, a CX & Web 3.0 company, f1studioz, a UI/UX company, and Social Panga, a digital-first creative company. With a vision to drive innovation and redefine digital marketing standards to grow the industry, LS Digital follows its guiding mantra #ChallengeTheNow to build industry best solutions today that will reshape the future of global business.Speaking on the partnership, Anshuman Misra, SVP Strategic Partnerships, Marketing & PR "LS Digital is a visionary company working with a single purpose of putting Digital Marketing Transformation at the core of businesses. As India takes the centre stage in developing and delivering tech-enabled, innovative services to the world, LS Digital is geared-up in spirit and strength to lead this conversation, we are happy to welcome Kaizzen on board as our PR partner. We are confident that this collaboration will further strengthen our position as a pioneering force in business transformation." On this collaboration, Anshuman further said, “In this new era of digital innovation and transformation, joining forces with young and dynamic team of Kaizzen, will help us in our journey of redefining industry standards, inspire change and shape the future by transforming businesses digitally”.Nikhil Pavithran, Group President of Kaizzen, stated, “This partnership with LS Digital marks a pivotal moment for Kaizzen, symbolizing our commitment to driving digital innovation and transformation. LS Digital's forward-thinking approach, coupled with their integration of digital-first programmatic services to transform the way brands interact with their audience in the tech age, resonates deeply with our vision. We firmly believe in the immense potential of this collaboration, especially in alignment with the Honourable Prime Minister's Digital India initiative, which sets the stage for substantial market growth. This partnership signifies a synergy of expertise and gives us a great opportunity to leverage our combined strengths to drive meaningful impact and foster impactful dialogues."

The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) partnered with Kaizzen, a leading integrated communications agency, has partnered with to curate the media and social media outreach for the upcoming World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2023 to be held at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi in February.The 23rd edition annual flagship event of the not-for-profit, policy research organization is scheduled to be held from 7th February to 9th February 2024. WSDS 2024 will focus on the umbrella theme: ‘Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice’.Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shailly Kedia, Senior Fellow and Associate Director, TERI said, “We are living in a time of Polycrisis. Key challenges confronting the world include planetary crises, sliding back of key sustainable development goals and the ever-growing conflict situation threatening world peace. It is more important than ever that environment stewardship is promoted at all levels and across all spheres. Today’s challenges for attaining sustainable development are complex and interconnected and will need everyone to work towards creating a more sustainable future. With this backdrop, the umbrella theme of the World Sustainable Development Summit 2024 is: Leadership for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice.”Sharing views on the association, Vineet Handa, CEO, Kaizzen, said, “WSDS (World Sustainability Development Summit) by TERI over the years has established itself as the most impactful and prominent summit on sustainability and environment around the globe. Key opinion leaders from across the globe share their vision on this platform which has had a clear impact on creating momentum towards impactful policy change. Relevance of all the topics deliberated during these summits are of immense importance for mankind and therefore it is a matter of pride for Kaizzen to continuously partner with WSDS for this flagship event.”