VML, a leading global creative transformation agency, has announced the appointment of Kalpesh Patankar—better known in the industry as Kal—as Group Chief Creative Officer, India. With nearly two decades of award-winning experience, Patankar most recently served as Chief Creative Officer at Leo Burnett Dubai.
His appointment marks a major addition to VML’s creative leadership. Having previously held the CCO role at VMLY&R Dubai, Kal is no stranger to the agency. His expertise in elevating agencies into global creative powerhouses is well recognized—under his leadership, both VMLY&R Dubai and Leo Burnett Dubai achieved unprecedented success, from securing major business wins to producing iconic, industry-leading campaigns. His achievements include prestigious honors such as “MEA Agency of the Decade” at Cannes Lions, multiple “Agency of the Year” titles at Dubai Lynx and MENA Effies, and being named Advertising Creative Person of the Year.
With a strong command of creative storytelling and a proven track record in building powerful client relationships, Patankar is set to bring fresh, global perspectives to VML India. Returning to his home country after nearly two decades across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, his leadership will play a key role in steering VML India’s creative growth and innovation.
“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. 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,” added Debbi Vandeven, CCO, VML.
“Kal’s philosophy of ‘Do good and put it out there’ perfectly aligns with VML’s vision,” said Babita Baruah, CEO, VML India. “His pursuit of creative excellence, combined with his proven ability to build high-performing teams, makes him the ideal leader to drive our creative vision across India.”
Throughout his career, Kalpesh Patankar has been a trailblazer in creative innovation, constantly challenging conventions, pushing boundaries, and crafting groundbreaking campaigns for some of the world’s most renowned brands, including Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Harvey Nichols, Land Rover, and Colgate. His work has not only earned global acclaim but has also served as inspiration and study material for creatives worldwide. A recognized leader in the industry, he has also been Jury President at some of the most prestigious advertising award shows, including Cannes Lions, D&AD, Andys, and ADFEST.
On taking up the new role, Kalpesh Patankar said, “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. 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.
