- 21 JUNE 2024
- CONNEXION, BANGSAR SOUTH, KL
Building brand and consumer trust have been the toughest in this age of algorithm and with the overload of data.
This topic explores the possibilities of how people, creativity and technology play their roles in brand building and how important each factor is! Our panelists will dive deep into below points and beyond:
Bharat Avalani is an accomplished marketer, facilitator and communicator who works with thought-leaders across the globe. Throughout his career, Bharat has been a habitual storyteller who captivates his audiences with his wealth of experience.
He believes that Business Storytelling is the number one leadership and communication skill of the next decade. He is committed to helping restore humanity to the workplace, using storytelling as its method.
It took a long time for him to learn how to do this effectively and he has learned lots along the way. There is no better feeling than seeing a leader talk in an authentic and engaging way and to watch their audience ‘lean forward’ and engage. It’s what gets him out of bed in the morning.
Santharuban Thurai Sundaram, appointed CEO of Etika Group for Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei on April 1, 2022, oversees operations, profitability, and expansion. With 18 years of FMCG marketing experience, he previously led brand and trade marketing teams, launching successful brands like WONDA and Calpis. His efforts led to his appointment as CEO of Advend Group in 2020, where he expanded business operations. Santharuban’s vision propels Etika forward amidst industry evolution, driving growth and innovation. Passionate about Etika’s future, he embraces the challenge of elevating the company to greater heights in his current role.
With over 25 years of transformative marketing experience spanning Unilever, HSBC, and currently as the Group Chief Marketing Officer at RHB Banking Group, Sani has left an indelible mark on the industry. From his humble beginnings at Unilever Malaysia to Thailand, he led branding teams, steering businesses to market leadership and earning numerous Business & Marketing awards.
At HSBC Bank Malaysia, he orchestrated structural changes which include launching the Islamic Bank franchise, expanding the affluent clientele, and spearheading digital channel commercialization. Now, as the Group Chief Marketing Officer at RHB, he breathes new life into the brand, resonating with younger, affluent segments, driving digital platform commercialization, and championing financial sustainability, supporting SME growth and community financial literacy.
Sani’s journey is defined by innovation, purpose, and impact which have garnered acclaim. He’s recognized as one of Asia Pacific’s Top 50 Most Influential and Purposeful Marketers by Campaign Asia, and has been honored as ‘CMO of the Year’ for consecutive years in Malaysia. Heralded as a ‘Marketing Trailblazer for Financial Services’ by Marketing Magazine Asia, he continues to shape the future of marketing with passion and purpose.
