Hires & Promotions: Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, L&K Saatchi & Saatchi

SkodaAuto Volkswagen India names Jan Bures as EVP-Sales, Marketing & Digital

Jan Bures has been appointed as EVP for Sales, Marketing and Digital at SkodaAuto Volkswagen India. He will be succeeding Christian Cahn von Seelen.

He was earlier Managing Director of Audi Volkswagen Middle East.

Bures has also worked with other automakers like Audi and Honda. He has 27 years of experience in automotive sales, marketing and engineering OEM.

L&K Saatchi & Saatchi appoints Balakrishna Gajelli as Executive Creative Director

Balakrishna Gajelli has been named Executive Creative Director at L&K Saatchi & Saatchi. He will operate from the Mumbai office, reporting to Chief Creative Officer, Kartik Smetacek.

Commenting on his appointment, Kartik Smetacek, Chief Creative Officer, L&K Saatchi & Saatchi said, “This will be the second time I’m working with Bala. He’s a solid thinker, a talented designer and a trustworthy individual. In recent years, he’s also gained a lot of experience with non-traditional work, working on some on India’s most awarded campaigns. It’s fantastic to have him be part of our team.”

Bringing over 17 years of expertise in art, design, branding and creative direction, Gajelli has shaped creative communications for brands like P&G, VISA, Bumble, Johnson's Baby, Pillsbury, Amul, Tata Salt, Tata Indicom, Idea Mobile, ITC Foods, Crompton, and more. 

Gajelli added, “I have great respect for L&K Saatchi & Saatchi’s creative, authentic, and brandcentric approach so I am thrilled to be part of this organisation. It’s great to work with Kartik again, and the agency’s vibrant culture and uplifting environment are plus points. I’m enthusiastic about becoming a valued member of this team and family, contributing to an exhilarating new phase for L&K Saatchi & Saatchi, and nurturing my professional development. I eagerly anticipate leveraging the insights gained from my previous stints and experiences to craft meaningful and innovative advertising and marketing solutions for our clients."

His previous roles include stints at FCB Ulka, BBDO India and Leo Burnett India.