Kritika Talwar Bhakuni’s promotion to Associate General Manager – Creative, Product Marketing at Hyundai Motor Company marks a significant milestone in her career. Having spent close to ten years with the organisation, she has played a pivotal role in shaping brand narratives, driving impactful campaigns, and strengthening Hyundai’s creative and product marketing strategies.  

Currently serving as Creative Team Lead, Bhakuni has been instrumental in blending storytelling with brand strategy, ensuring Hyundai’s campaigns resonate with consumers in a competitive automotive landscape. Her earlier roles as Marketing Manager and Assistant Manager saw her contribute to multiple creative and brand-building initiatives, reinforcing her reputation as a versatile marketing leader.  

Her journey with Hyundai has been defined by a consistent focus on brand awareness, creative marketing, and integrated communication strategies. Prior to joining the company, Bhakuni gained early exposure to global marketing environments through an internship at Virgin Atlantic, which helped shape her international perspective and sharpen her skills in consumer engagement.  

Over the years, she has established herself as a key contributor to high-impact campaigns, evolving Hyundai’s consumer engagement approach and strengthening its market presence. Her elevation reflects not only her professional growth but also Hyundai’s recognition of her ability to combine creativity with strategic product marketing expertise.  

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Jenil Sheth has been promoted to Head of Marketing at Abbott, marking a significant step in his career and reinforcing the company’s focus on strategic, market-driven growth. With years of experience in the pharmaceutical sector, Sheth brings a comprehensive understanding of both product and sales management, positioning him as a key figure in shaping Abbott’s marketing direction.

Over the course of his professional journey, Sheth has built expertise across a wide range of therapeutic areas, including cardiology, dermatology, oncology, nutraceuticals and general medicines. This breadth of experience has enabled him to navigate complex healthcare markets while aligning product strategies with evolving consumer and industry demands. His ability to integrate scientific insight with commercial acumen has made him a well-rounded leader in the healthcare marketing space.

In his new role, Sheth is expected to drive Abbott’s marketing initiatives with a sharper focus on innovation, relevance and growth. His approach, rooted in understanding both patient needs and market dynamics, is likely to play a crucial role in strengthening the company’s positioning across key therapeutic segments. Industry observers note that such leadership is increasingly vital in a landscape where healthcare marketing must balance regulatory frameworks, technological advancement and patient-centric communication.

Prior to this appointment, Sheth held important roles at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Merck Healthcare and Bioplus Lifesciences. These experiences have contributed to a deep and nuanced understanding of diverse markets and therapeutic categories. His tenure across these organisations has been marked by a consistent emphasis on growth strategies driven by data, market insights and cross-functional collaboration.

At Abbott, Sheth steps into a role that demands both strategic foresight and operational excellence. The company’s expansive portfolio and global reputation provide a platform for impactful leadership, and his appointment signals a continued investment in strengthening its marketing capabilities. As the pharmaceutical industry evolves with increasing focus on personalised care and digital transformation, leaders like Sheth are expected to bridge the gap between innovation and accessibility.

His promotion reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also a broader trend of organisations prioritising leaders who can blend scientific knowledge with business strategy. With his proven track record and multidimensional expertise, Sheth is poised to contribute significantly to Abbott’s next phase of growth, shaping how its products connect with healthcare professionals and patients alike.

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Kasun Tennakoon has announced his appointment as Executive Creative Director at TBWA\Sri Lanka, marking a new chapter in his career. Reflecting on his journey, Tennakoon likens the creative profession to a roller-coaster ride—filled with soaring highs and daunting dives—but one that has shaped his growth as both a professional and a person.  

He credits years of immersion in the advertising world for giving him the opportunity to reinvent himself, explore new ideas, and develop a deep appreciation for the vocation. For Tennakoon, the true reward lies not only in the craft itself but in the people who make the industry vibrant and collaborative.  

Motivated by the conviction that creativity can drive meaningful change, Tennakoon emphasises the impact of advertising beyond brands and clients, extending to society at large. “There aren’t many things that feel as good or are as rewarding as accomplishing great work,” he notes, underscoring his commitment to producing ideas that resonate with purpose and passion.  

His appointment at TBWA\Sri Lanka signals a continuation of this ethos, as he brings his conscientiousness and creative drive to one of the world’s most recognised agency networks. With a focus on blending innovation with humanity, Tennakoon’s leadership is set to inspire campaigns that not only elevate brands but also contribute positively to the wider cultural landscape.

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Mighty Union has appointed Angela Herbst as President, marking a pivotal moment in the agency’s trajectory as it continues to champion “critical brands.” The Boston-based firm announced the promotion on 9 April, recognising Herbst’s role in shaping its positioning, strengthening its operating model, and driving sustained growth.  

Herbst, who joined Mighty Union seven years ago, most recently served as Chief Client Officer. In that role, she helped define the agency’s impact as an integrated marketing partner to organisations that people depend on to protect and propel the modern world. Her remit now expands to overseeing the agency’s evolution as it doubles down on serving mission-, life-, and future-critical brands across aerospace and defence, healthcare, financial services, and higher education.  

Her leadership has coincided with a period of remarkable momentum for Mighty Union, including triple-digit growth, new business wins, expanded client partnerships, and consistently high retention rates. CEO Matt Naffah praised her influence, noting that Herbst has been instrumental in shaping how the agency presents itself in the market and collaborates internally and externally. “Angela has been a driving force behind Mighty Union’s growth,” he said. “Her curiosity and conviction have been central to our momentum, and this promotion reflects both her impact and the role she’ll continue to play as we scale.”  

Herbst has also spearheaded initiatives that delivered tangible outcomes for clients, such as launching a deal-based marketing practice that secured substantial contracts for B2G organisations. Reflecting on her journey, she said: “I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside this agency and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together. While our momentum has been exciting, what matters most is that we’ve stayed grounded in being insight-driven and collaborative. I’m honoured to help lead the next chapter.”  

Herbst’s career spans leadership roles at Arnold, Allen & Gerritsen, Hill Holliday, and PJA, where she honed her expertise in brand, strategy, and client leadership. She has worked with major names including Raytheon Defense, South Shore Bank, UMass Memorial Health, Intelsat, and WIN Waste Innovations. An active member of Ad Club Boston, she is widely recognised for her strong track record in B2B and B2G marketing.  

Her appointment underscores Mighty Union’s ambition to scale its influence in sectors where trust, resilience, and innovation are paramount, positioning the agency as a partner of choice for organisations shaping the future.  

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VML has named Kunal Roy as its new Managing Partner – West & Growth Lead, a role that underscores the agency’s commitment to driving growth and deepening client partnerships in one of its most dynamic markets. The appointment comes at a pivotal time for VML, which has emerged as a global creative force following the unification of Wunderman Thompson and VMLY&R.  

Roy’s new mandate reflects both the scale and ambition of VML’s integrated model, which combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce practices underpinned by data and technology. With this appointment, the agency signals its intent to accelerate growth in the western region while reinforcing its industry-unique ability to deliver end-to-end solutions for clients navigating an increasingly complex marketing landscape.  

VML’s formation brought together two of the world’s most accomplished creative agencies, each with complementary strengths and geographic reach. The merger created a powerhouse capable of offering holistic services that span creativity, technology, and commerce. In this context, Roy’s leadership role is expected to be instrumental in shaping the agency’s growth trajectory, particularly in markets where innovation and integration are critical to brand success.  

Industry observers note that VML’s integrated approach is well-timed, as brands increasingly seek partners who can deliver seamless experiences across platforms and channels. By blending creativity with data-driven insights, VML positions itself as a partner capable of not only building brand equity but also driving measurable business outcomes.  

Roy’s appointment is also seen as a recognition of his proven ability to lead teams and foster growth in competitive environments. His experience and vision are expected to strengthen VML’s presence in the region, while also contributing to the agency’s global ambition of redefining how creativity and technology intersect.  

As VML continues to expand its footprint, the addition of Roy to its leadership team highlights the agency’s focus on talent and innovation. For clients, it represents an opportunity to engage with a partner that offers both creative excellence and commercial impact. For VML, it is another step in its journey to set new benchmarks in the industry.  

Congratulations to Kunal Roy on this new chapter, and best wishes as he embarks on his endeavour to drive growth and shape the future of VML’s integrated offering.

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Bilal Hasan has announced his appointment as Associate Vice President at Leo, a new creative powerhouse that merges the heritage of Leo Burnett with the innovation of Publicis Worldwide. The move marks a significant step in Hasan’s career, aligning him with a network that is positioning itself as a modern constellation of globally awarded talent.  

Leo is described as “HI meets AI” – Human Insight, Human Ideas, Human Impact – amplified by data and technology to deliver more, faster, everywhere. This philosophy underscores the agency’s ambition to blend creativity with cutting-edge innovation, ensuring campaigns resonate deeply with audiences while achieving measurable impact.  

The launch of Leo represents a bold reimagining of what a global creative network can be. By bringing together the recognisable legacy of Leo Burnett, a name synonymous with advertising excellence, and the expansive reach of Publicis Worldwide, the agency now boasts over 15,000 employees across 90 countries. This scale provides Hasan and his colleagues with a platform to deliver ideas that are both locally relevant and globally influential.  

For Hasan, the appointment is not only a personal milestone but also a chance to contribute to a network that is redefining the creative landscape. His role as Associate Vice President places him at the intersection of human vision and technological innovation, a space where Leo intends to thrive. The agency’s emphasis on harnessing data to amplify creativity reflects the evolving demands of clients who seek both emotional resonance and business results.  

Leo’s positioning as a “creative constellation” suggests a collective of talents working in harmony, each star contributing to a brighter whole. It is a metaphor that captures the agency’s ambition to shine globally while remaining rooted in human insight. Hasan’s appointment signals confidence in his ability to help steer this vision, ensuring that campaigns are not only imaginative but also impactful.  

As the advertising industry continues to adapt to rapid technological change, Leo’s model offers a glimpse into the future of creativity – one where human ideas are elevated by artificial intelligence, and where legacy meets innovation. Hasan’s new role at Leo is a testament to the enduring importance of leadership that understands both the art and science of communication.  

With this appointment, Bilal Hasan joins a network that roars with the combined strength of Leo Burnett and Publicis Worldwide, ready to shape the next chapter of global advertising.

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Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC has announced the appointment of Sashi Adele Schaffter as a Non-Executive, Non-Independent Director, effective 2 April 2026. She joins the Board as a representative of Janashakthi Ltd, further strengthening the company’s governance and strategic oversight.

A UK-qualified barrister, Schaffter was called to the Bar of England and Wales at the Inner Temple with distinction. Her professional journey reflects a strong interdisciplinary approach, combining legal expertise with hands-on experience in corporate finance and strategic advisory.

Currently serving as Vice President – Corporate Finance at First Capital Holdings PLC, she plays a key role in delivering financial and advisory solutions, particularly in complex corporate transactions. She has also contributed to group-level strategic planning during her tenure as Apprentice Director at Janashakthi Group.

Her appointment is expected to bring valuable insights to Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC as it continues to expand its role within Sri Lanka’s financial services sector, aligning governance with long-term growth and innovation.

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Uber has announced the appointment of Arjun Kalra as Head of Marketing for India & South Asia, a move that underscores the company’s ambition to sharpen its brand positioning and deepen consumer engagement in one of its most dynamic markets.  

In his new role, Kalra will lead marketing strategy and activities across the region, focusing on growth initiatives and strengthening Uber’s presence as a trusted mobility brand. He will also serve on the APAC Marketing and India & South Asia (INSA) leadership teams, ensuring that the regional narrative aligns with Uber’s global vision.  

Kalra shared the news on LinkedIn, writing: “Excited to share my new ride. Last month, I stepped into a new role leading Marketing for Uber in India & South Asia. Uber isn’t just an app – it’s how our cities move, every single day… chaotic, dynamic, unpredictable, and full of opportunity. I’ll be working with teams across India and globally to build one of the most trusted and loved mobility brands in the region.” His words reflect both the challenges and opportunities of steering Uber’s marketing in a market defined by rapid urbanisation, diverse consumer needs, and fierce competition.  

With a career spanning brand, digital, and growth marketing, Kalra brings a wealth of experience to the role. He spent seven years at Apple, where he contributed to the technology giant’s brand and consumer strategies. His professional journey also includes leadership positions at AB InBev India & Southeast Asia, Yum! Brands, AkzoNobel Decorative Coatings, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). This blend of global and regional expertise positions him to navigate Uber’s complex marketing landscape, balancing innovation with cultural resonance.  

Uber’s decision to appoint Kalra comes at a time when mobility services are evolving rapidly, with consumers increasingly seeking reliability, safety, and sustainability. His appointment signals Uber’s intent to not only expand its footprint but also to embed itself more deeply into the everyday lives of riders and drivers across India and South Asia.  

As Uber continues to adapt to shifting consumer expectations and regulatory frameworks, Kalra’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences while reinforcing Uber’s identity as a brand that moves cities. His arrival marks a significant chapter in Uber’s regional journey, one that blends global expertise with local insight to drive growth and trust.

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Ogilvy Group, the storied WPP-owned network that encompasses agencies such as Ogilvy, Grey, and David, has appointed industry veteran Carol Reed as its first global chief innovation officer. The newly created role signals the company’s determination to stay ahead of rapid shifts in consumer behaviour, cultural trends, and technological disruption.  

Reed, who reports directly to Ogilvy’s global chief executive Laurent Ezekiel, will be tasked with developing and scaling new technology-driven products and services across the network. Her remit includes strengthening practice areas such as social, influencer marketing, and sports and entertainment, while also identifying opportunities for strategic partnerships and acquisitions.  

Speaking to Adweek about the timing of the appointment, Reed emphasised the pace of change reshaping the industry. “There’s just so much change happening between consumer behaviour shifting, and culture changing constantly,” she said. “At the same time, you have technology accelerating with AI.” Her comments underscore the urgency with which agencies are rethinking their models to remain relevant in a marketplace where innovation is increasingly the currency of growth.  

For Ogilvy, the move reflects a broader ambition to integrate creativity with cutting-edge technology. The group has long been recognised for its legacy in brand storytelling and advertising excellence, but Reed’s appointment suggests a sharper focus on building platforms and services that can adapt to the demands of digital-first audiences. By placing innovation at the heart of its global leadership structure, Ogilvy is signalling that it intends to compete not only with traditional rivals but also with technology firms and consultancies encroaching on the marketing space.  

Reed’s role will also be pivotal in ensuring Ogilvy’s agencies can harness artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively. With AI reshaping content creation, consumer engagement, and data analysis, her leadership is expected to guide the network in balancing technological adoption with creative integrity.  

Laurent Ezekiel’s decision to bring Reed into the executive team highlights the importance of innovation as a driver of future growth. It positions Ogilvy to respond to clients seeking integrated solutions that combine creativity, technology, and cultural insight.  

The appointment of a global chief innovation officer is a first for Ogilvy, but it may well set a precedent across the industry. As Reed takes on the challenge, her success will be measured by how effectively she can translate technological advances into meaningful creative outcomes that resonate with audiences worldwide.

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Johnson & Johnson has announced the elevation of Ajit Menon PhD to the role of Chief Global Commercial Data, Digital and AI Officer, effective April 2026. In this newly defined executive capacity, Dr Menon will lead global teams across Data Science, Digital Health, and Precision Medicine, tasked with advancing the company’s overarching data and AI strategy. His mandate is mission-critical: to harness generative and agentic AI in redefining market shaping and driving global product adoption across Johnson & Johnson’s industry-leading healthcare portfolio.  

Dr Menon’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the company’s digital transformation journey. With a distinguished 24-year career at the intersection of biopharmaceuticals, advanced analytics, and digital innovation, he is widely regarded as a titan of the global life sciences landscape. His expertise lies in bridging the gap between data and patient outcomes, a perspective that Johnson & Johnson believes will be pivotal in shaping the digital future of healthcare.  

Having spent the past 11 years at Johnson & Johnson, Dr Menon has steadily risen through the ranks, most recently serving as Vice President of Customer Engagement and Digital Transformation. In that role, he was instrumental in embedding digital-first strategies across commercial operations, ensuring that J&J remained at the forefront of patient-centric innovation. His deep institutional knowledge of the company, combined with his proven ability to deliver transformative outcomes, positions him uniquely to lead this next phase of growth.  

Prior to joining Johnson & Johnson, Dr Menon held senior leadership roles at Biogen, where he spearheaded Global Business Insights and Forecasting, and at ZS, where he honed his strategic consulting expertise. This blend of biopharma leadership and consulting acumen has equipped him with an unparalleled ability to translate complex data into actionable strategies that accelerate patient access to breakthrough therapies.  

As Chief Global Commercial Data, Digital and AI Officer, Dr Menon will oversee the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies into Johnson & Johnson’s commercial ecosystem. His focus will be on leveraging data-driven insights to enhance precision medicine, optimise digital health solutions, and strengthen global market adoption. The company views his appointment as a decisive step in ensuring that its healthcare innovations reach patients worldwide with greater speed, efficiency, and impact.  

Dr Menon’s elevation underscores Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to embedding AI at the heart of its commercial strategy, signalling a bold vision for the future of healthcare innovation.

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