Sakaal Media Group sets up Brand Solutions Cell; Kajal Malik to head the division

Malik moves in from Lintas Media Group, where she was head, planning, ITC Foods.

Sakaal Media Group has roped in Kajal Malik to head its newly created division, Brand Solutions Cell, with immediate effect. Earlier, she was working with Lintas Media Group as head, planning, ITC Foods.

In her new role, Malik will report to LS Krishnan, business head, Sakaal Media Group and will be based in Pune.

With more than 18 years of experience in strategic planning, media buying and brand and media research, she has worked on various categories including FMCG (ITC, Nestle, Dabur and Hamdard), consumer durables, automobiles and telecom.

In an official communiqué, Krishnan says, "We have various platforms to tap different target groups, be it kids, women, youth or farmers. We feel that this potential has been hitherto under-utilised by brands and therefore, the decision to set up Brand Solutions Cell, which will understand the brand task and then create media opportunities from within the Sakaal Media Group offering - and at times beyond it."

Malik's immediate plan of action involves gaining in depth understanding of Sakaal's offering and then figuring out the best solutions for various brands. "Sakaal is a respected group and has the potential - now the intention is to bring it forth," she says.

About her new assignment, Malik says, "Today's fragmented market is driving most advertisers to find customised solutions to connect better with their consumers. Currently, there are lots of advertisers who are looking for customised solutions in Maharashtra and going by the experience so far, it made sense to bring Sakaal closer to the advertisers in the key markets of the state. Print media has not explored its potential to the hilt."

She adds that the Sakaal group organises about 300 events every year and her aim is to bring more brands closer to the group.

Abhijit Pawar, managing director, Sakaal Media Group, says, "I believe that Malik, with her expertise and ability, will bring to life multiple opportunities for brands to engage with consumers in Maharashtra. We would like Sakaal to be a bridge between brands and consumers in the state."