Lakmé Lever Pvt. Ltd. has announced the elevation of Siddhesh Upadhyay to Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant milestone in his nearly 12-year journey with the company. The appointment, revealed by Upadhyay on social media this week, took effect in April 2026 and positions him at the helm of strategic leadership within the organisation.  

Upadhyay’s career at Lakmé Lever has been defined by steady progression through senior roles spanning regional business management, business excellence and analytics, and nationwide operations leadership. Most recently, as Head of Business, he oversaw the performance of more than 450 Lakmé Salons across India, driving profitability and laying the foundation for sustainable market expansion. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening the company’s operational framework and ensuring consistent growth across diverse markets.  

In his new role as COO, Upadhyay joins Lakmé Lever’s core leadership team, where he will be responsible for shaping and executing strategic plans aligned with the company’s vision of “Beautify the Future.” His mandate includes delivering both short- and long-term business goals, expanding the salon network in line with annual growth plans, and elevating the customer and franchise partner experience nationwide. This appointment underscores Lakmé Lever’s commitment to reinforcing its leadership in India’s beauty and wellness sector while preparing for future opportunities in an evolving marketplace.  

Reflecting on his journey, Upadhyay expressed gratitude in a social media post: “As I step into this new chapter, I find myself looking back with immense gratitude for the journey that brought me here. No milestone is achieved in isolation, and this moment belongs to the incredible people who have supported, challenged, and inspired me along the way.” His words highlight the collaborative ethos that has defined his career and leadership style.  

Before joining Lakmé Lever, Upadhyay built a strong foundation in operations and retail management through senior roles at Jubilant Retail, Sony India, and McDonald’s India. With over two decades of experience across consumer services, hypermarket operations, and sales leadership, he brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. His academic credentials include a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) from MICA, The School of Ideas, further reinforcing his blend of strategic insight and operational acumen.  

Upadhyay’s elevation to COO signals Lakmé Lever’s focus on strengthening its leadership pipeline and driving innovation in customer engagement. As the company continues to expand its footprint, his appointment is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of growth for one of India’s most recognised beauty and wellness brands.  

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Leo has announced a significant addition to its global leadership team with the appointment of Javier Campopiano as Chief Creative Officer for the Americas and Iberia. The move reflects the agency’s commitment to strengthening its creative offering in markets that are both strategically vital and culturally dynamic. By placing creativity at the heart of business transformation, Leo signals its intent to drive deeper connections between brands and consumers in regions where storytelling and innovation are critical to growth.  

Campopiano’s appointment is notable not only for the breadth of his experience but also for the recognition his work has received across the world’s most prestigious awards programmes. From Cannes Lions to D&AD, his campaigns have consistently demonstrated the power of creativity to deliver both cultural resonance and business impact. This track record positions him as a leader capable of shaping Leo’s creative vision in territories that demand bold, integrated ideas.  

The Americas and Iberia represent diverse markets with distinct consumer behaviours and cultural nuances. In the United States and Latin America, creativity often intersects with technology and entertainment, while Iberia’s advertising landscape is deeply rooted in heritage and evolving digital engagement. Campopiano’s ability to navigate these complexities will be central to Leo’s ambition of offering transformative solutions that go beyond traditional advertising. His leadership is expected to foster collaboration across teams, ensuring that creativity remains the driving force behind brand strategies.  

Leo’s statement accompanying the appointment emphasised its ongoing evolution as a creative company. By “putting creativity at the heart of business transformation,” the agency is aligning itself with a broader industry trend where creative excellence is increasingly seen as a catalyst for growth. In an environment where brands face fragmented media channels and heightened consumer expectations, the role of a Chief Creative Officer extends beyond campaign ideation to shaping holistic brand experiences.  

Campopiano’s arrival also reflects Leo’s recognition of the importance of leadership that bridges global standards with local insights. His career achievements across multiple geographies highlight a versatility that will be invaluable in steering creative output across two regions with distinct challenges and opportunities. Industry observers note that such appointments are part of a wider movement among agencies to invest in leaders who can combine award-winning craft with strategic foresight.  

As Chief Creative Officer for the Americas and Iberia, Campopiano will be tasked with mentoring creative talent, driving innovation, and ensuring that Leo’s work continues to resonate with audiences while delivering measurable business results. His appointment is expected to energise the agency’s teams and reinforce Leo’s reputation as a hub for creativity that transforms businesses.  

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Publicis Groupe Hong Kong has announced the appointment of Rhys Turner to the newly established position of Head of Creative Technology, underscoring the agency’s commitment to innovation and the integration of advanced technologies into its creative output.  

Originally from Australia, Turner brings 20 years of expertise spanning agency, client, and production environments, with a career that has taken him across Saudi Arabia, Istanbul, and Shanghai. He began his professional journey teaching electronic media before moving into interactive and digital work, including video game and app development, UX, coding, and experiential design.  

In 2023, Turner transitioned from Sydney-based design and technology company T&DA to Chanel in Hong Kong, where he served as Innovation Technologist for the Asia-Pacific region. His work at Chanel focused on applying technology to enhance creative practice, a skillset that now positions him to drive Publicis Groupe Hong Kong’s ambitions in AI and innovation.  

At Publicis, Turner will collaborate closely with creative teams on client projects, ensuring that technology is embedded seamlessly into storytelling and brand experiences. His remit includes scaling AI-driven solutions and fostering innovation across the Groupe’s operations, reflecting the agency’s broader strategy to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.  

Turner will report to Christopher Lee, Chief Creative Officer, and Tom Kao, Chief Executive Officer at Publicis Groupe Hong Kong. His appointment signals the agency’s intent to strengthen its creative technology leadership and deliver future-facing solutions for clients navigating the intersection of creativity and technology.  

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Wajinie Mahanama, Client Services Director at MullenLowe Sri Lanka, has been named as a jury member for the prestigious Dragons of Asia 2026 Awards, a recognition that underscores her growing influence in the region’s marketing and communications landscape. The appointment marks her debut on the judging panel of one of Asia’s most respected platforms for creative excellence, and she has spoken of her excitement at the opportunity to engage with some of the most innovative campaigns emerging from across the continent.  

For Mahanama, the honour is both professional and personal. “This will be my first time on the jury, and I’m truly looking forward to reviewing and celebrating some of the most inspiring work coming out of the region,” she said, reflecting on the significance of the role. Her words capture the sense of anticipation that accompanies the chance to evaluate projects that not only demonstrate creativity but also embody strategic thinking and cultural insight.  

The Dragons of Asia Awards have long been regarded as a benchmark for marketing effectiveness and creativity, recognising campaigns that push boundaries while resonating deeply with audiences. Mahanama’s selection highlights the increasing visibility of Sri Lanka’s advertising talent within the broader Asian context. It also reflects the industry’s recognition of her expertise in client services, where she has consistently championed work that balances innovation with impact.  

She emphasised the energising nature of the process, noting how the awards provide a window into the evolving dynamics of the industry. “It’s always energising to see the creativity, strategic thinking, and cultural insight that continues to shape our industry across Asia,” she remarked. Her perspective underscores the importance of cultural nuance in campaigns that aim to connect with diverse audiences across the region, a factor that has become increasingly critical in a globalised marketplace.  

Equally, Mahanama expressed gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with fellow jurors, many of whom bring varied experiences and perspectives from across Asia’s marketing and advertising sectors. “I’m excited to learn from fellow jurors while recognising the incredible talent pushing boundaries in our field,” she said. This spirit of collaboration reflects the ethos of the Dragons of Asia Awards, which not only celebrate achievement but also foster dialogue among industry leaders.  

Her appointment comes at a time when Asian advertising is experiencing a surge of creativity, with brands and agencies experimenting with new formats, digital platforms, and storytelling techniques. As a juror, Mahanama will be part of the process that identifies and honours the campaigns setting new standards for effectiveness and originality.  

For MullenLowe Sri Lanka, her selection is also a moment of pride, signalling the agency’s growing role in shaping conversations about creativity and effectiveness beyond national borders. It positions Mahanama as both a representative of Sri Lanka’s advertising community and a participant in a wider regional narrative about innovation and cultural resonance.  

As the Dragons of Asia 2026 Awards approach, Mahanama’s presence on the jury adds another dimension to the celebration of creativity, ensuring that voices from across the region are part of the dialogue that defines excellence in marketing. Her enthusiasm and commitment suggest that her contribution will be both insightful and impactful, reinforcing the awards’ reputation as a platform that honours not just campaigns, but the ideas and people behind them.

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Special has appointed Maddie Marovino as its National Head of Social, a newly created role that signals the agency’s growing focus on social-led communication and earned connectivity. The move comes as brands increasingly rely on fast-moving digital conversations and cultural relevance to build stronger connections with audiences.

In the new position, Marovino will lead Special’s social offering across the organisation nationally, developing ideas and content designed to help brands appear meaningfully and memorably within social platforms where trends shift quickly and audience attention is fiercely contested. Her role will involve building strategies that bring together creative thinking, media planning, experiential marketing, public relations and influencer partnerships into a cohesive system centred on audience engagement.

The appointment reflects the agency’s ambition to strengthen its earned connectivity model, which places cultural insight and audience participation at the centre of modern communications. Social media, within this framework, functions not merely as a distribution channel but as the engine that links various creative and marketing disciplines into a unified storytelling ecosystem.

Marovino will work closely with Special’s creative, strategy and production teams, ensuring that social-first thinking shapes campaigns from their earliest stages. By embedding social insight into the development of ideas rather than treating it as an afterthought, the agency aims to create work that resonates with audiences in real time while maintaining consistent brand narratives across multiple platforms.

Alex Bryant, Managing Director of Special PR Australia, described the appointment as a significant addition to the agency’s leadership team and social capabilities.

“It’s not every day you meet someone of Maddie’s calibre,” Bryant said. “Her start-up background gives her the hustle and nimbleness that thrives at an independent agency, while her global and local experience and strong industry partnerships will help expand our agency’s social capability, unlocking new opportunities for clients and driving earned-led connectivity across the business.”

The role will also see Marovino oversee the agency’s national social output while expanding the team of social specialists within Special. As digital ecosystems grow more fragmented and consumer journeys stretch across multiple touchpoints, the agency sees social media as the connective thread that can unite different elements of a campaign into a coherent audience experience.

Marovino herself emphasised the strategic importance of social in modern communications, particularly at a time when brands must respond rapidly to cultural conversations while maintaining authenticity and relevance.

“I’m incredibly excited to join the team at Special and further integrate social firepower into everything we do — from insight and idea through to execution and impact,” she said. “In a landscape where the consumer journey is increasingly fragmented, social can be both the spark and the glue.”

Her career spans more than 15 years and includes experience across start-ups, scale-ups and established global companies, giving her a broad understanding of how brands operate at different stages of growth. Before joining Special, Marovino spent five years at Hello, where she served as Director of Client Experience and played a central role in shaping integrated marketing and communications work for major clients.

During her career, she has worked with an extensive roster of international brands, including Uber, Uber Eats, Air Canada, Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, McDonald’s and Harley-Davidson. Her work with these organisations has involved creating integrated campaigns that combine brand storytelling with real-time audience engagement across digital platforms.

Industry observers note that agencies are increasingly creating senior leadership roles dedicated specifically to social strategy. As platforms evolve and audiences expect faster, more authentic interactions with brands, social media has shifted from being a supplementary communication tool to a central driver of brand relevance and cultural participation.

For Special, Marovino’s appointment represents both a strategic investment and a reflection of wider industry trends. By placing social thinking at the centre of campaign development and integrating it with creative, media, PR and influencer strategies, the agency aims to build campaigns that feel culturally aware and audience-driven rather than purely promotional.

Her leadership will focus not only on producing engaging content but also on translating cultural insights into creative ideas that cut through crowded feeds and spark conversation. In an environment where brand messages compete with entertainment, news and personal updates, success often depends on the ability to create work that feels native to the platform and meaningful to its users.

With Marovino now leading the charge, Special is positioning its social offering as both the spark that ignites creative ideas and the glue that binds together multiple communication channels, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to integrated, culturally attuned brand storytelling.

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Lotus Herbals, one of India’s leading beauty and personal care brands, has announced the appointment of Puja Singh as Assistant General Manager–Marketing. In her new role, Singh will oversee marketing and brand operations while steering strategic growth for the company’s extensive portfolio, which includes Lotus Herbals, Lotus Dermabotanics, Lotus Makeup, Lotus Organics+, Lotus Botanicals, and the clinical skin-tech brand Dermacy.  

Singh’s appointment signals a significant step in Lotus Herbals’ ongoing journey to consolidate its position in the highly competitive beauty and personal care sector. With consumer preferences shifting rapidly towards organic formulations, dermatological solutions, and digital-first experiences, her leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s future trajectory.  

An alumna of the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, and Miranda House, Singh brings with her more than 15 years of experience in the beauty and personal care landscape. She joins Lotus Herbals after a successful stint at McNROE Consumer Products, where she led marketing and innovations. Her expertise in consumer insights, brand repositioning, and product innovation has been widely recognised in the industry, making her a valuable addition to Lotus Herbals’ leadership team.  

This appointment also marks Singh’s return to Lotus Herbals. She previously served as marketing manager for the company’s Make-up division and Exclusive Brand Outlets (EBOs). During her earlier tenure, she was instrumental in launching and repositioning Lotus Makeup as a high-aspiration, youth-centric brand. Her efforts helped the brand carve out a distinct identity in a crowded market, appealing to younger consumers who sought quality, affordability, and aspirational value in their beauty products.  

In her new capacity, Singh is expected to focus on scaling the brand’s footprint across both digital and traditional ecosystems. With the beauty and personal care industry witnessing a surge in online engagement, particularly through e-commerce platforms and social media, her role will involve strengthening Lotus Herbals’ digital presence while ensuring consistency across offline retail channels. Leveraging her deep insights into female consumer behaviour, Singh will aim to build stronger connections with audiences who are increasingly discerning about product authenticity, sustainability, and efficacy.  

Lotus Herbals has been aggressively expanding its presence in the organic and dermat skincare segments, areas that have seen exponential growth in recent years. Consumers are increasingly drawn to products that combine natural ingredients with scientific formulations, and Lotus Herbals has positioned itself at the intersection of these trends. Singh’s expertise in innovation and brand strategy is expected to accelerate the company’s efforts in these categories, ensuring that Lotus Herbals remains relevant and competitive in a fast-evolving market.  

The appointment also reflects Lotus Herbals’ commitment to nurturing leadership that understands both legacy and innovation. As a brand that has built its reputation on herbal and natural formulations, Lotus Herbals is now embracing new opportunities in clinical skincare and advanced beauty solutions. Singh’s ability to balance tradition with modernity will be crucial in driving campaigns that resonate with consumers across demographics.  

Industry observers note that Singh’s return to Lotus Herbals comes at a time when the brand is poised for significant growth. With a portfolio that spans herbal skincare, organic products, makeup, and dermat-tech solutions, the company is well-positioned to cater to diverse consumer needs. Singh’s leadership will likely focus on integrating these verticals into a cohesive brand narrative, enhancing visibility, and driving consumer trust.  

As the beauty and personal care industry continues to evolve, Lotus Herbals’ decision to bring back a seasoned professional with proven expertise underscores its ambition to strengthen its market presence. Puja Singh’s appointment as AGM–Marketing is not just a leadership change but a strategic move aimed at ensuring that Lotus Herbals remains at the forefront of innovation, consumer engagement, and sustainable growth in the years ahead.

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Kalpana Singh has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer at Raymond Lifestyle Limited, effective March 2026. Based in Mumbai, she will spearhead the marketing strategy, brand architecture, and consumer engagement for the iconic lifestyle and apparel major, with a sharp focus on premiumisation and digital-first growth across Raymond’s extensive retail portfolio.  

Singh’s appointment marks a significant leadership move for Raymond, a brand synonymous with India’s sartorial heritage and evolving lifestyle aspirations. Her mandate is clear: to elevate Raymond’s positioning in an increasingly competitive market by blending tradition with modernity, and by ensuring the brand resonates with digitally savvy, premium-seeking consumers.  

With a career spanning two decades, Singh brings formidable expertise in global marketing and consumer insights. Her most recent role as Marketing Director at Hindustan Unilever (HUL) showcased her ability to deliver transformative growth. Under her leadership, the Pears brand achieved 18.5% growth, driven by a digital turnaround that repositioned the heritage brand for contemporary relevance. This achievement underscored her skill in balancing legacy with innovation, a quality that aligns seamlessly with Raymond’s own brand journey.  

Her international experience further strengthens her credentials. As Personal Care Business Group Director for the Middle East, Turkey, and North Africa, Singh managed a portfolio of seven global brands including Lux, Dove, and Rexona. Based in Dubai, she navigated diverse consumer landscapes, tailoring global narratives to regional sensibilities. This ability to merge global brand equity with local storytelling is expected to be a cornerstone of her approach at Raymond, where the brand must appeal to both domestic and international audiences.  

Singh’s career foundation is equally diverse. She has held pivotal roles at Nielsen and Young & Rubicam Group, honing her skills in consumer insights and strategic planning. Her entrepreneurial venture—a premium home accessories brand—adds another dimension to her profile, reflecting her instinct for design, aesthetics, and consumer-centric innovation. This blend of corporate rigour and entrepreneurial creativity positions her uniquely to lead Raymond’s marketing transformation.  

Raymond Lifestyle, with its expansive portfolio spanning apparel, accessories, and retail formats, has been steadily investing in premiumisation and digital integration. Singh’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to these priorities. Her expertise in data-driven growth and portfolio optimisation is expected to sharpen Raymond’s consumer engagement strategies, ensuring the brand remains aspirational while accessible.  

Industry observers note that Singh’s arrival comes at a time when lifestyle brands are under pressure to adapt to shifting consumer behaviours. The rise of e-commerce, the demand for personalised experiences, and the growing preference for premium yet sustainable offerings are reshaping the sector. Singh’s track record of driving digital-first growth and her nuanced understanding of consumer psychology make her well-suited to navigate these challenges.  

For Raymond, the appointment is not just about marketing leadership but about shaping the brand’s future narrative. Singh’s ability to craft compelling stories that resonate across demographics and geographies will be critical in reinforcing Raymond’s identity as both a heritage brand and a modern lifestyle choice.  

As she steps into her new role, Singh embodies the convergence of experience, innovation, and vision. Her journey from global marketing at Unilever to entrepreneurship and now to Raymond Lifestyle reflects a career defined by adaptability and impact. For Raymond, her leadership promises a new chapter—one where premiumisation, digital engagement, and consumer-centric storytelling drive growth and legacy alike.  

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Cheil India, the marketing and communications arm of the Samsung Group in the country, has appointed advertising professional Tanveer Kaur as its new Deputy General Manager, marking another leadership addition as the agency strengthens its strategic and digital marketing capabilities.

Kaur announced her new role through a LinkedIn update, expressing enthusiasm about the transition. “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Deputy General Manager at Cheil India (Samsung Group),” she wrote, signalling the start of a new chapter in a career that has spanned more than 15 years in India’s dynamic advertising and media industry.

Her appointment comes at a time when agencies across the country are navigating a rapidly evolving marketing landscape shaped by digital transformation, data-driven advertising and changing consumer behaviour. With deep experience across media planning, digital strategy and integrated marketing communications, Kaur brings a broad perspective that reflects the industry’s shift towards more agile and insight-led campaigns.

Throughout her career, Kaur has held roles at several prominent global and Indian agency networks. She previously worked with GroupM India, one of the world’s largest media investment groups, where she contributed to media strategy and client servicing across major accounts. Her professional journey also includes stints at Publicis Groupe India, a leading multinational advertising and communications company known for its integrated approach to marketing and digital transformation.

In addition to these roles, Kaur has worked with Interactive Avenues, a digital marketing agency recognised for its performance-driven campaigns, as well as Wavemaker, the global media agency network that focuses on content, technology and data to deliver measurable brand outcomes. She has also been associated with Reprise Media, a performance marketing agency specialising in search, social and programmatic advertising.

This breadth of experience across agencies of different scales and specialisations has equipped Kaur with a well-rounded understanding of brand strategy, digital media and consumer engagement. Industry observers note that such cross-network exposure is increasingly valuable as brands demand integrated solutions that combine creativity with measurable performance.

Cheil India, part of the South Korean conglomerate Samsung Group, has steadily expanded its footprint in India’s marketing and advertising sector. Known for its work on Samsung’s campaigns and other brand accounts, the agency has built a reputation for blending creative storytelling with technology-driven marketing solutions. The company has been investing in talent and capabilities as competition intensifies in the advertising and digital media space.

Kaur’s arrival is expected to further strengthen the agency’s leadership bench, particularly as brands seek more sophisticated marketing strategies that span digital platforms, data analytics and consumer insights. Professionals with multi-agency experience often play a key role in bridging traditional media planning with emerging digital channels.

For Kaur, the move represents both continuity and progression in a career defined by collaboration with global networks and diverse client portfolios. As she steps into her new position, industry watchers will be keen to see how her experience and strategic perspective contribute to Cheil India’s ongoing growth and its efforts to navigate the next phase of India’s rapidly evolving marketing ecosystem.

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Chandni Shah has taken charge as Chief Executive Officer of Kinnect and 22feet Tribal, signalling a strategic shift in how the agencies plan to pursue growth and client partnerships in the coming year. In her first major announcement after stepping into the role, Shah revealed that the agencies will significantly limit new client acquisitions, onboarding only five new brands this year.

The decision, which she shared in a LinkedIn post, marks a departure from the rapid client acquisition model that has long characterised the advertising and digital marketing industry. Shah emphasised that the move is rooted in her belief that sustainable growth is defined not by speed but by the quality and longevity of partnerships built along the way.

“I’ve always believed that how you grow matters more than how fast you grow,” Shah wrote, explaining the rationale behind the decision. She also made it clear that the agencies intend to move away from the cycle of constant competitive pitching that often dominates the business landscape. “I’m done with serial pitching,” she said.

According to Shah, the decision to cap new client additions reflects a conscious effort to prioritise long-term brand building over short-term wins. By limiting the number of new partnerships, the agencies aim to invest deeper attention and resources into the brands they choose to work with, ensuring that the collaboration produces measurable business outcomes.

She explained that selectivity will play a key role in this new phase. The agencies plan to be deliberate about the brands they partner with, seeking relationships that align with their long-term vision and creative philosophy. “We believe in long-term brand building, and so want to be extremely mindful of who we partner with,” Shah noted in her post.

The shift is intended to strengthen the agencies’ ability to deliver tangible impact for clients, positioning creativity not merely as a communication tool but as a driver of business growth. Shah described the goal as ensuring that creative thinking becomes a “business multiplier” for the brands the agencies serve.

Equally important, she said, is the depth of commitment once a partnership begins. Rather than managing a large portfolio of accounts with limited engagement, the agencies intend to fully immerse themselves in the success of each client they bring on board. “And once we bring them onboard, we go all in. All heart,” she wrote, highlighting the culture of dedication she hopes to reinforce across the organisation.

While the announcement may appear to suggest a more cautious pace of expansion, Shah was quick to clarify that the strategy should not be interpreted as a retreat from growth ambitions. Instead, she described it as an effort to safeguard the quality and sustainability of the agencies’ progress.

“This isn’t about trading growth,” she explained. “We remain deeply ambitious about what we want to achieve this year. But we’re equally committed to protecting the kind of growth that lasts.”

Her comments underline a broader industry conversation about the pressures of constant pitching, rapid scaling and client churn, which many agencies have increasingly begun to question. By choosing to limit new business opportunities, Shah appears to be positioning Kinnect and 22feet Tribal around a model that prioritises strategic collaboration and deeper creative partnerships.

The philosophy also reflects Shah’s own entrepreneurial journey. She founded Kinnect at the age of 22 alongside partner Rohan Mehta, building it from a startup into a major digital marketing agency with a workforce of more than 500 professionals. Over the years, the company expanded its presence across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru and established itself as a full-service digital marketing firm.

Kinnect later became part of the FCB Group India, which operates under the global Interpublic Group (IPG) network, further strengthening its position within the broader advertising ecosystem.

Before assuming the CEO role, Shah served as the agency’s Chief Operating Officer, playing a central role in scaling the organisation’s operations, talent base and client portfolio. Her transition to chief executive now places her in charge of shaping the next phase of the agencies’ strategic direction.

By placing deliberate limits on new client acquisitions, Shah is seeking to reinforce a philosophy that prioritises meaningful impact over numerical growth. As she summarised in her announcement, the goal is not to simply accumulate brand names in presentations but to ensure that the agencies’ work produces genuine transformation for the businesses they partner with.

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For Sling & Stone, the announcement marks both the end of a defining era and the beginning of a new chapter. Sian Church, who joined the agency with a clear mission to establish a top-tier communications partner in New Zealand, has overseen its transformation into one of the country’s most respected names in the sector. Over her tenure, Church curated a client portfolio that reflects the dynamism of New Zealand’s business landscape, ranging from venture-backed startups and scaleups to global brands entering the market. Companies such as Tracksuit, Kami, LawVu, Stripe, Google Cloud, Krispy Kreme and Too Good To Go have all benefited from the agency’s expertise under her leadership.

Reflecting on her decision to step down, Church described her time at Sling & Stone as one of the most rewarding and inspiring periods of her career. She emphasised that the role had been more than just a professional position, calling it a defining part of her journey. “I came in with a mission to build a top tier comms agency with a strong culture and a reputation for doing impactful work, and I truly believe I achieved that,” she said. Her departure underscores the legacy she leaves behind: an agency known for its creativity, culture and impact.

Taking the reins is Dearra Naidoo, who has been promoted to Director NZ. Naidoo brings more than a decade of experience across fintech, SaaS and consumer lifestyle sectors, and has spent the past four years at Sling & Stone honing her expertise and deepening her understanding of what makes the agency distinctive. She has led campaigns for brands such as Lush Cosmetics, Pathfinder and Akahu, demonstrating her ability to deliver work that resonates with audiences and aligns with the agency’s ethos. Her promotion signals continuity as well as fresh energy, ensuring Sling & Stone remains positioned to scale and innovate in the New Zealand market.

Naidoo expressed her excitement about the opportunity to lead the agency into its next phase. “I’m thrilled to lead Sling & Stone into its next chapter and work with the team to shape the agency’s future and grow our presence in the market. We already have an incredible team, a culture of creativity and a client portfolio that is truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to build on our strong foundations to drive Sling & Stone even further,” she said. Her words reflect both confidence and ambition, qualities that will be vital as the agency continues to expand its capabilities and strengthen its presence.

The transition also highlights Sling & Stone’s commitment to nurturing talent from within. Naidoo’s rise to leadership after four years at the agency demonstrates the value of investing in people who understand its culture and vision. Her close collaboration with the global leadership team will ensure that New Zealand remains a key part of Sling & Stone’s international growth strategy, while also maintaining the local relevance that has been central to its success.

Church’s departure is not simply a change in leadership; it is a moment of reflection on how far Sling & Stone has come in New Zealand. From its early days of building credibility in a competitive market to becoming a trusted partner for high-growth companies, the agency has consistently delivered campaigns that combine creativity with impact. The client roster she helped build is testament to her ability to attract and retain brands that value innovation and storytelling. Her legacy is one of scale, culture and reputation, and it sets a strong foundation for Naidoo to build upon.

As the communications industry continues to evolve, Sling & Stone’s leadership transition positions it to adapt and thrive. With Naidoo at the helm, the agency is expected to deepen its expertise in sectors such as fintech and SaaS, while continuing to support consumer lifestyle brands. Her experience and vision will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring that Sling & Stone remains at the forefront of communications in New Zealand.

The announcement is both a farewell and a welcome: a recognition of Church’s achievements and a celebration of Naidoo’s potential. Together, they represent the past and future of Sling & Stone in New Zealand, a story of growth, culture and ambition that continues to unfold.

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