Hires & Promotions: Motilal Oswal Financial Services, Zee, Swiggy, iProspect

Motilal Oswal Financial Services ropes in Sandeep Walunj as its group CMO

Motilal Oswal Financial Services has named Sandeep Walunj as its group CMO. In his role, Walunj will spearhead the marketing function across all the MOFSL group businesses.

Walunj brings with him experience of 28+ years in marketing, digital, product and innovation across the BFSI, retail and FMCG sectors. Before joining Motilal Oswal Financial Services, he was working with Nippon India Life Asset Management. Previously, Walunj has worked with organisations like Big Bazaar, PepsiCo India Holdings, Reckitt Benckiser, and others. He has done his PGDM from IIM Ahmedabad after his engineering.

Speaking on the occasion, Motilal Oswal, group MD and CEO, MOFSL says, “We are thrilled to announce Sandeep as our new chief marketing officer of the MOFSL group. His appointment marks a pivotal moment in our journey to reinforce our brand image and strengthen our marketing capabilities. With his deep understanding and successful track record in large domestic and global organisations, Sandeep's expertise will be instrumental as we strive to achieve our ambitious objectives of expanding and elevating our marketing impact."

Walunj comments, “I am excited to be part of the pedigreed Motilal Oswal group as they repurpose their brand, marketing, and growth initiatives for the new decade of opportunities in Indian Financial Services. The focus will be on leveraging consumer & trade insights to build an engaging 360-degree marketing ecosystem and creating a comprehensive communication strategy for the brand.”

The appointment comes as MOFSL is expanding its businesses with new strategies and reaching new geographies.

Zee appoints Tejas Soni as branch head sales (North) and Moumita Ghosh as branch head sales (South)

Zee Media has reported expansion within its leadership team, marking a decisive stride towards fortifying its position in both linear and digital media spheres. Tejas Soni, with over nineteen years of sales and media management experience, has joined Zee Media as branch head– sales (North), while Moumita Ghosh returns as branch head– sales (South), bringing with her over sixteen years of sales and marketing expertise.

Additionally, Darius Maneckji joins as revenue management- branch head – sales (West), equipped with a wealth of strategic acumen and a successful track record in revenue management.

Soni's diverse background in OTT, sports, entertainment and English news sectors positions him as a key asset in expanding Zee Media's influence in the Northern zone, emphasising its strategic focus on broadening reach and revenue streams in this critical region. In the Southern zone, Ghosh's proven track record in market presence establishment and her customer-centric approach perfectly align with the objectives of driving growth and fostering partnerships.

Bringing over twenty years of experience in sales, marketing and advertising, Maneckji is appointed as the branch head– sales (West) for Zee Media's linear properties. In this role, he will oversee revenue management for ZMCL linear properties in the West region, spearheading growth through strategic decision-making and fostering collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders. Reporting directly to ZMCL's chief revenue officer, his leadership is poised to enhance Zee Media's market presence and competitive advantage through the implementation of innovative revenue strategies.

Abhay Ojha, CEO of Zee Media Corporation, underscores the significance of these strategic moves, stating, "As we embark on this journey with our new team members, it's imperative to recognise that their integration into our organization signifies more than just the filling of positions. It represents the convergence of diverse experiences and talents, laying the groundwork for our collective future. Each individual brings a unique perspective, enriching our collaborative efforts as we navigate the evolving landscape ahead."

He further adds, "Together, we're not merely spectators; we're active participants in shaping our destiny. Every decision made, every challenge overcome, and every milestone achieved is a testament to our unwavering dedication to realising our shared vision of sustained growth and success. Through mutual respect, open communication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, we will forge ahead, united in purpose and driven by the boundless possibilities that lie ahead."

Mona Jain, chief revenue officer, ZMCL, shares, "As we strengthen Zee Media's sales team, we're embarking on an exhilarating journey poised at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Our vision is to not only embrace the evolving landscape of media consumption but to lead the charge. With exciting plans unfolding in both the linear and digital spheres, we are primed to showcase the formidable proposition and enduring legacy of our network to the market. This is more than just a strategy; it's a testament to our unwavering dedication to delivering excellence and pushing boundaries. Together, we're shaping the future of media and writing a new chapter of success for Zee Media."

Swiggy adds Titan's Suparna Mitra as an independent director to its board

Suparna Mitra joins Swiggy’s list of independent directors that includes Anand Kripalu- MD and global CEO at EPL and chairperson of the Swiggy board, Shailesh Haribhakti- chairman of Shailesh Haribhakti & Associates, and Sahil Barua- MD and CEO at Delhivery.

With an electrical engineering degree from Jadavpur University and an MBA from IIM Calcutta, she has held key roles including global marketing head at Titan. Mitra also serves on IIM Kozhikode's board of governors.

Sriharsha Majety, group CEO of Swiggy, says, “We are excited to welcome Suparna as an independent director to our board. With her remarkable career and extensive experience in lifestyle and retail industries, along with her refreshing perspectives as a leader, we are confident that she will bring valuable insights and expertise to our Board as our business enters its next era of growth."

"Having seen Swiggy revolutionize on-demand convenience through innovation and customer-centricity, I’m excited by this opportunity. I look forward to collaborating with the Board members and management team of Swiggy; aimed at value-creation and values-based governance,” adds Mitra on her appointment.

Garima Bijlani joins iProspect as managing partner

iProspect has onboarded Garima Bijlani as its managing partner. Bijlani made the announcement on her LinkedIn profile.

She transitioned to the agency from Neo Media World, where she held the role of digital partner for the past two years. With eleven years of experience, she has previously worked with Isobar, FCB Ulka, IPG Media Brands and Lodestar Universal.