VML Appoints Kalpesh Patankar as Group Chief Creative Officer, India

VML has appointed Kalpesh Patankar, “Kal,” as Group Chief Creative Officer, India. He brings nearly two decades of experience to the role, most recently serving as Chief Creative Officer at Leo Burnett Dubai.

Patankar’s appointment strengthens VML’s creative leadership. He is no stranger to the agency, having previously served as CCO at VMLY&R Dubai. His track record includes transforming agencies into globally recognized creative powerhouses.

Under his leadership, both VMLY&R Dubai and Leo Burnett Dubai achieved success, from major business wins to industry-leading work. His leadership has earned accolades such as MEA Agency of the Decade at Cannes Lions and multiple Agency of the Year titles at Dubai Lynx and MENA Effies. He has also been named Advertising Creative Person of the Year.

“Patankar’s deep understanding of the creative craft coupled with his expertise in building strong client relationships, makes him a valuable asset to VML,” the agency said. adding that ith his return to India after nearly 20 years in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, he brings a global perspective to the India business. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the agency’s continued growth and success in the region.

“We are looking forward to having Kal back our global creative team. His extraordinary brand skills — particularly in the area of craft — are second to none,” said Debbi Vandeven, CCO, VML.

“Under his creative leadership, brand building and the level of craft will flourish in India. He has a unique ability to bring humanity and creativity together to deliver solutions for clients that transcend marketing.”

“Kal is fantastic at shattering boundaries to create phenomenal work for our clients,” added Paul Nagy, CCO, VML APAC.

“I am excited to have him on board as he leads our teams across India to new heights.”

Throughout his career, Patankar has challenged conventional thinking, pushing boundaries and delivering groundbreaking work for globally recognized brands such as Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Harvey Nichols, Land Rover, and Colgate. His work has been celebrated and studied by creatives worldwide, and he has served as Jury President at prestigious award shows including Cannes Lions, D&AD, Andys, and ADFEST.

“I have been considering returning to India for a long time, but I was waiting for the right moment, agency and team to do it with,” said Patankar.

“I believe that moment is now, with the team at VML. Creativity has the power to transform businesses, and I’m excited to collaborate with teams across India and APAC to deliver exceptional results for our clients.”

Based out of the agency’s Mumbai office, Patankar will report to Debbi Vandeven, Global CCO, VML  and Babita Baruah, CEO VML India. He will work closely with Paul Nagy, APAC CCO, to enhance VML’s creative reputation in APAC and around the world.

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