The Power Shuffle: Week’s big moves

This week saw key leadership changes across auto, retail, communications, advertising, real estate, pharma, and media industries. From global marketing leaders making headlines to major C-suite appointments in India’s top corporations, here are the most impactful executive movements that shaped the business landscape:


Stephane Deblaise appointed CEO for India at Renault Group

Renault Group has appointed Stephane Deblaise as CEO for India. The appointment will be effective September 1 and comes at a time when the brand is recalibrating its growth plans in a highly competitive automobile market.

Patrik Antoni takes over as CEO of IKEA India

Patrik Antoni, who previously served as Deputy CEO at IKEA India, has now been appointed CEO. His elevation is expected to boost the company’s market expansion and omnichannel strategy in India.

Deepali Naair appointed Global Head - Brand & Corporate Communications at Biocon Biologics

Deepali Naair has been appointed to lead the global brand and corporate communications function at Biocon Biologics. Her appointment strengthens the company’s global positioning and outreach efforts.

NP Singh and Bharat N Anand appointed as JioStar Independent Directors

NP Singh, the former MD & CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India, and Prof. Bharat N Anand, an expert in digital strategy, media, and entertainment strategy, have been roped in as Independent Directors at JioStar. Their inclusion signals a focus on experienced governance and media-forward insights.

Rakesh Jallipally named CEO in India at Pepe Jeans London

Pepe Jeans London has appointed Rakesh Jallipally as CEO in India. Before joining Pepe Jeans, Rakesh held the position of Vice President at Flipkart, bringing strong e-commerce and retail expertise to the fashion brand.

Sudarshan Karandikar joins Madison Loop as Vice President

Sudarshan Karandikar has joined Madison Loop as Vice President. He has in the past worked with Ogilvy, McCann, FCB Interface, SSB & B Lintas, and Dentsu, making him a seasoned name in the advertising and communication ecosystem.

Laurent Ezekiel exits WPP, to join Publicis

Laurent Ezekiel, who joined WPP in 2019 as its first global chief marketing officer, is moving to Publicis as per reports. This strategic shift follows his earlier exit from Coca-Cola and signals a significant development in global advertising leadership.

 
Amitesh Shah appointed as Zonal CEO – MMR at Godrej Properties

Godrej Properties has named Amitesh Shah as Zonal CEO – MMR. In a related move, Sandeep Navlakhe has been appointed the new Chief Operating Officer, reflecting leadership strengthening in key growth regions.