Happy mcgarrybowen makes leadership changes

The agency appoints Rajesh Mani as ECD and Kunal Madhavdas as sr. vice president.

Happy mcgarrybowen, a creative agency from Dentsu Aegis Network, has appointed of Rajesh Mani as the agency's first ever the executive creative director (ECD) and Kunal Madhavdas as sr. vice president.

Commenting on Mani's appointment, Kartik Iyer, CEO, Happy mcgarrybowen, says, "We have been very particular about creative leadership within the agency. Because at that level it's not just about the talent but more about having the maturity to nurture ideas. We have a strong culture at Happy mcgarrybowen and in (Rajesh) Mani we found the natural energy to further that culture. It's great to have him in our team."

With over 18 years of experience across agencies - such as BBH, Ogilvy, Leo Burnett and Commonwealth - Mani will head a few of Happy mcgarrybowen's prime accounts, which includes Ola, Suzuki and Jabong. He has worked on a number of popular campaigns, such as Vodafone's Blackberry Boys, The Zoozoos and Lenovo's Sumo film.

Speaking about his new role Mani says, "When I met (Kartik) Iyer, I discovered we had a lot in common and his plans for Happy (mcgarrybowen) were exciting. So the decision to join felt like a natural progression. The mandate is simple and clear; to keep the creative flag flying high and that's what I aim to do."

Madhavdas joins Happy mcgarrybowen after having successful stints at Lowe Lintas, JWT and McCann Erickson. With over 14 years of experience, he has overseen multiple blockbuster campaigns for Flipkart, TVS, Myntra, Fastrack, Britannia and Tata Tea. Madhavdas will work closely with Iyer and Samarjit Choudhry, COO, Happy mcgarrybowen.

"The intent and the capability to crack and execute integrated campaigns that work effectively across mediums is something most brands look for in their advertising partners today. Happy mcgarrybowen has consistently done that. I can sense happier times ahead, so keep watching," says Madhavdas.

According to the press release shared by the agency, the new hires mark a distinct upsurge in direction and ambition from Happy mcgarrybowen on its 10th anniversary and serves as another example of how the agency is investing heavily in the finest talent in India to deliver the best for its clients.

Choudhry says, "We are particular about the people who work with us not just on skill set but also on the attitude. With (Kunal) Madhavdas, and now (Rajesh) Mani, we have two people who come from the same mindset. They are a fabulous addition to the 'Happy' team."