India – Havas Life Mumbai, the healthcare communications arm of Havas India, has appointed Dorelle Kulkarni as its new managing director to lead the agency’s strategic expansion and innovation in healthcare communications.
In this role, Kulkarni will succeed Sangeeta Barde, CEO of Havas Life Mumbai, India, and regional head of Havas Life Dubai (Middle East). She will drive the agency’s strategic expansion, strengthen its market position, and lead its next phase of innovation and growth.
Kulkarni brings nearly three decades of experience in marketing and strategic growth within the health and wellness sector. She has held leadership roles at Publicis Health and Lowe Lintas, shaping brand strategies for top global healthcare companies.
Notably, she spent a decade at the former Sorento Healthcare, now Havas Life Mumbai, where she managed an impressive portfolio of blue-chip clients, including Abbott, GSK, Pfizer, Novartis, MSD, Glenmark, and Novo Nordisk.
“Joining Havas Life Mumbai feels like a homecoming. I am excited to collaborate with a team that shares my passion for innovation and excellence in healthcare communications. Together, I am looking forward to creating impactful solutions that make a meaningful difference in the health and wellness landscape,” Kulkarni shared.
Kulkarni will report to Charles Houdoux, global chief client officer and CEO of Havas Health LATAM & APAC, and collaborate closely with Rana Barua, group CEO of Havas India, SEA, and North Asia, to ensure a successful integration with Havas India Village.
Additionally, she will work alongside Sachin Talwalkar, chief creative officer of Havas Life Mumbai, to drive strategic innovation and elevate the agency’s impact in healthcare communications.
Speaking on the appointment, Houdoux said, “Havas Life Mumbai is a key player in our global health and wellness network, and Dorelle’s appointment marks a significant step in strengthening our presence in the APAC region.”
“As healthcare evolves rapidly worldwide – with digital transformation, personalised medicine, and patient-centric solutions redefining the industry – India stands at the forefront of this revolution. With her expertise and leadership, we are confident that Havas Life Mumbai will continue to drive groundbreaking healthcare communications that create real impact,” he added.
Barua also said, “We are thrilled to welcome Dorelle to the Havas family at such a transformative time for healthcare communications. Her deep industry expertise, strategic vision, and passion for innovation will be instrumental in shaping the next phase of growth for Havas Life Mumbai. I also want to take this opportunity to thank Sangeeta for her leadership and being part of Havas and wish her the best always.”
