Deepali Naair: Celebrating a cross-industry career in global marketing leadership

Deepali Naair, Global Head, Brand and Corporate Communications at Biocon Biologics, celebrates her birthday today. Her career, spanning consumer products, financial services, technology and healthcare, reflects one of the most diverse and accomplished journeys in Indian marketing and corporate communications.

In her current role at Biocon Biologics, Naair leads the global brand and corporate communications mandate, overseeing an integrated strategy that includes global brand positioning, digital presence, regulatory and statutory communication, financial reporting, media relations and employer branding. Her remit cuts across geographies and business functions, placing her at the forefront of shaping the company’s narrative as one of India’s most important and fast-growing biopharmaceutical players.

Before joining Biocon Biologics, Naair served as Group Chief Marketing Officer at the CK Birla Group, where she played a central role in strengthening the identity of a diverse conglomerate with interests in healthcare, engineering, automotive, building products and consumer goods. Her work involved unifying brand architecture, sharpening digital engagement and aligning marketing strategy with business transformation across the group’s companies.

Her experience in the technology sector is equally notable. At IBM, Naair held multiple leadership roles, including Director, Digital Sales for the Bengaluru Digital Sales Centre and Digital Sales Centre Growth Leader for JAPAC (Japan, Asia Pacific and China). She has also served as CMO for IBM India & South Asia, driving marketing strategy, digital transformation and demand generation during a period of significant organizational evolution.

Naair’s contributions to financial services span some of the sector’s most recognised institutions. At IIFL Wealth Group of Companies, she led marketing and digital initiatives and also served as a non-executive board member of IIFL Wealth Finance. Her earlier roles at HSBC Global Asset Management and L&T Insurance saw her lead marketing, digital sales, customer service and product initiatives, reinforcing her reputation as a leader capable of navigating highly regulated and high-value segments.

Her career began in the consumer and mobility sectors, with stints at Tata Motors, BPL Mobile and Draft FCB-Ulka. At Marico, she managed iconic brands such as Saffola and Mediker, sharpening her grounding in brand building and consumer behaviour—an experience that continues to inform her strategic approach across categories. She later became Chief Marketing Officer at Mahindra Holidays, heading marketing, digital, analytics and inventory sales across a large consumer network.

Beyond corporate leadership, Naair is known for her contribution to industry conversations and knowledge-building. Her podcast series, Being CEO with Deepali Naair, has gathered a strong following for its candid conversations with business leaders and its exploration of decision-making, leadership and organisational culture.

As Deepali Naair celebrates her birthday today, her professional journey stands out for its breadth, impact and consistency.