Ruder Finn, a leading independent global communications and marketing agency, has announced the appointment of Ilana Shenitzer as EVP, Brand Experience, and Head of Consumer Goods. Based in Denver, Ilana’s expertise will enhance the agency’s expanding presence in the region while driving innovation in brand storytelling and consumer engagement.

Ilana Shenitzer’s Extensive Experience

• Over 20 years of experience in consumer brand marketing.
• Led strategic and creative campaigns for major brands, including:
  • Beverages & Food: ABSOLUT, General Mills, J.M. Smucker Company, Mars Inc., Nestlé Purina, PepsiCo Foods (Frito-Lay).
  • Consumer Packaged Goods: Procter & Gamble, Whirlpool Corporation, Champion Petfoods.
  • Technology & Communications: Kodak, Motorola, U.S. Cellular.

Impact on Ruder Finn’s Consumer Goods Division

• Strengthens the agency’s expertise in consumer technology, food & beverage, and packaged goods.
• Enhances brand storytelling and executive thought leadership strategies.
• Expands Ruder Finn’s footprint in Denver following the acquisition of Big Sky Communications.

Ilana’s Vision for Ruder Finn

• Committed to driving innovation and growth in consumer marketing.
• Aims to build strong collaborative partnerships within the industry.
• Focuses on delivering impactful brand experiences through strategic communications.

Ruder Finn’s Recent Success: Kite Hill Partnership

• Ruder Finn has been named the agency of record for Kite Hill, a premium dairy-free food brand.
• Leading Kite Hill’s holistic communications strategy, including:
  • Media Relations – Enhancing brand awareness through press and media coverage.
  • Influencer Marketing – Partnering with key figures in the dairy-free space.
  • Social Media (Paid & Organic) – Strengthening digital presence and consumer engagement.
• Client Testimonial: Connie Sintuvat, VP of Marketing at Kite Hill, praised Ruder Finn’s ability to scale its expertise across multiple marketing channels.

With Ilana Shenitzer’s appointment, Ruder Finn continues to solidify its leadership in consumer brand marketing. Her extensive experience, combined with the agency’s strategic acquisitions and successful brand partnerships, positions Ruder Finn as a powerhouse in integrated marketing and communications.

Click fraud is a persistent challenge for advertisers, with bots generating fake leads, conversions, and wasted ad spend. Polygraph, a click fraud prevention service, advises advertisers to disable bots to re-train advertising networks, ensuring they send human traffic instead of fraudulent bot activity.

Why Detecting Click Fraud Bots Isn’t Enough

• Merely detecting bots does not stop them from:
  • Submitting fake leads.
  • Signing up for mailing lists.
  • Adding items to shopping carts.
  • Generating no-cost conversions that skew ad data.
• Solution: Disabling bots prevents fake conversions, preventing ad networks from being misled.

How Ad Networks Get Trained to Send Bots

• Advertising networks optimize traffic based on conversion signals.
• If bots generate conversions, the network learns to send more bots.
• Garbage in, garbage out—allowing bot traffic results in more bot traffic over time.

The Impact of Disabling Bots on Click Fraud

• Disabling bots results in a 50-80% reduction in click fraud within a month.
• It takes 2-4 weeks for ad networks to update their traffic algorithms.
• Long-term benefits include:
  • A significant drop in bot traffic.
  • An increase in human visitors.
  • Higher quality leads and better sales performance.

Polygraph’s Role in Click Fraud Prevention

• Detects and disables click fraud bots.
• Re-trains ad networks to send real human traffic.
• Easy to implement, requiring minimal technical setup.

Click fraud costs advertisers millions in wasted spend. By disabling bots, businesses can re-train ad networks to send genuine human traffic, improving lead quality and increasing revenue. Polygraph’s innovative approach ensures long-term click fraud prevention and higher ad efficiency.

Peppercomm, an integrated communications and marketing firm under the Ruder Finn Group, has promoted Jacqueline Kolek and Maggie O'Neill to Managing Directors at Ruder Finn and Co-Presidents at Peppercomm. Their leadership marks a new phase of innovation, growth, and enhanced client service. Meanwhile, founder Steve Cody transitions to Senior Executive Advisor, where he will focus on industry connections, brand strategy, and thought leadership.

Leadership Evolution at Peppercomm

• Jacqueline Kolek

  • 25-year tenure at Peppercomm.
  • Led financial & professional services sector and key crisis engagements.
  • Developed the Team Meridian specialty issues and crisis group.
  • Co-created the humor-driven communication strategy and manages the Laughing Matters Council.
  • Will continue to lead client engagement, marketing strategy, and employee communications.

• Maggie O’Neill

  • 24-year tenure at Peppercomm.
  • Previously served as Chief Client Officer, ensuring high-quality client service.
  • Led consumer & lifestyle sector (home, auto, mobility, consumer tech).
  • Spearheaded the Stakeholder Experience (SX) initiative.
  • Will oversee finance, operations, and new business integration across Ruder Finn.

Steve Cody’s Transition to Senior Executive Advisor

• Remains involved with key Peppercomm clients.
• Expands engagement across Ruder Finn Group.
• Provides strategic insights on the challenges faced by Chief Communications Officers.
• Influences the development of:
  • New products and services.
  • Industry content and research.
  • Talent development initiatives.

The Future of Peppercomm Under New Leadership

• Stronger alignment with Ruder Finn Group for seamless collaboration.
• Focus on innovation-driven communication strategies.
• Commitment to enhanced client services and operational excellence.
• Expansion of stakeholder engagement, brand-building, and thought leadership.

With Jacqueline Kolek and Maggie O'Neill at the helm, Peppercomm is poised for a new era of growth and innovation. Their deep expertise, combined with Steve Cody’s strategic advisory role, ensures the firm continues to deliver exceptional client service while expanding its capabilities within Ruder Finn Group.

Michelle Gines, CEO of Purpose Publishing, has been officially accepted into the Forbes Business Council, an exclusive invitation-only community for top business leaders. Her inclusion highlights her expertise in publishing, business growth, and leadership, positioning her among an elite group of global executives.

Selection Process & Criteria for Membership

• Forbes Business Council membership is highly selective, with candidates evaluated on:
  • Proven business success in publishing and consulting.
  • Impact on industry growth and leadership development.
  • Personal and professional achievements demonstrating excellence.

Benefits of Forbes Business Council Membership

• Exclusive Networking Opportunities
  • Access to a private forum connecting influential business leaders.
  • Collaboration with executives across multiple industries.
• Thought Leadership Contributions
  • Publishes original articles on Forbes.com.
  • Participates in Forbes Expert Panels, sharing insights with global industry leaders.
• Premium Business & Lifestyle Perks
  • Membership-branded marketing assets to enhance visibility.
  • High-touch concierge support for professional needs.
  • Complimentary access to EXEC, a program offering luxury travel, business, and lifestyle benefits.

Michelle Gines on Joining Forbes Business Council

"Being accepted into the Forbes Business Council is an incredible honor. Joining this esteemed community allows me to contribute, collaborate, and elevate my impact on a global scale. I'm excited to bring my leadership to this prestigious platform!"

Forbes Business Council’s Recognition of Michelle Gines

• Acknowledges her leadership and influence in publishing and business.
• Recognizes her commitment to industry innovation and professional growth.
• Provides a global platform to expand her impact and thought leadership.

Michelle Gines’ acceptance into the Forbes Business Council is a testament to her excellence in publishing, business strategy, and leadership. As she steps into this new role, her insights and expertise will contribute to industry-wide growth while further strengthening her global presence.

Comcast Business has announced the launch of its new multichannel brand campaign, "Powering the Engine of Modern Business," emphasizing its role as a global enterprise technology partner. The campaign highlights real-world technological solutions provided by Comcast Business, demonstrating how businesses across industries—from small enterprises to global corporations—benefit from advanced connectivity, cybersecurity, and networking solutions.

The campaign includes three TV spots featuring narration by Josh Brolin and cameos from Billy Horschel, golf legend Tom Watson, and Golf Channel’s Rich Lerner. Additionally, Comcast Business has secured a two-year agreement with Billy Horschel as its brand ambassador, aligning with its partnership with THE PLAYERS Championship and the PGA TOUR.

Highlights of the Campaign

1. Comcast Business as a Global Technology Solutions Partner

• The campaign showcases how Comcast Business empowers organizations with:
  • Advanced networking and connectivity solutions.
  • Cutting-edge cybersecurity to safeguard data and transactions.
  • Seamless operational efficiencies for retailers, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and major sporting events.
• The TV spots feature real-world business applications, showing how Comcast Business enables frictionless transactions, automated restocking, and enhanced customer experiences.

2. Comcast Business & PGA TOUR Partnership

• Comcast Business has been named the Official Business Internet, Voice, Wi-Fi, and SD-WAN Service Provider of the PGA TOUR.
• Provides technological infrastructure at:
  • PGA TOUR Global Home in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
  • Tournament Players Club (TPC) properties nationwide, including TPC Sawgrass.
• Enables connectivity for:
  • Live international tournament broadcasts.
  • Automated greenskeeping software, supporting robotic mowers and sprinklers.

3. Billy Horschel as Comcast Business Brand Ambassador

• Comcast Business signed a two-year agreement with Billy Horschel ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship.
• Horschel will feature the Comcast Business logo on his hat throughout the 2025 and 2026 PGA TOUR seasons.
• His competitive spirit and strategic mindset align with Comcast Business' approach to delivering top-tier enterprise solutions.

The Impact of the “Powering the Engine of Modern Business” Campaign

• Three TV spots showcase Comcast Business’ real-world impact across multiple industries.
• The campaign will be rolled out through TV, digital, and social media channels.
• Created by Goodby Silverstein & Partners (GS&P), with a focus on highlighting Comcast Business as the backbone of modern business operations.

With the launch of its new brand campaign, Comcast Business reinforces its position as a leading global enterprise technology provider. From small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, the PGA TOUR, and major retail brands, Comcast Business continues to power businesses with reliable, scalable, and secure technology solutions.

FPT China has signed a strategic cooperation agreement (MOU) with Kingdee, a leading enterprise software provider, marking a significant milestone in both companies' global expansion and digital transformation strategies. This partnership will strengthen their competitiveness in cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), system integration (SI), and data center services, further enhancing their presence in international markets.

Aspects of the Strategic Partnership

1. FPT as Kingdee’s Global Expansion Partner

• FPT will provide consulting, solution implementation, and post-maintenance services for Kingdee’s global customers.
• Leveraging its presence in 86 offices across 30 countries, FPT will support Kingdee’s expansion beyond China by:
  • Adapting Kingdee’s solutions to local market needs.
  • Offering high-quality talent and customized technology solutions.
  • Establishing a global project team for flexible management.
  • Setting up a training center in Southeast Asia to promote Kingdee’s technology adoption.

2. Deepening Kingdee’s Presence in China

• Kingdee and FPT will collaborate on technical training and knowledge transfer to enhance enterprise solution capabilities.
• This cooperation aims to optimize cost structures, improve decision-making, and enhance operational efficiencies for businesses in China.

3. Expansion in Key Global Markets

• Both companies will target Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas for growth.
• Focus areas include:
  • AI-driven services: Developing AI solutions to enhance automation and enterprise efficiency.
  • Data Center Establishment: Setting up an Internet Data Center (IDC) in Vietnam to support cloud and AI-based services.
  • AI Factories: Launching AI innovation hubs in Vietnam and Japan to accelerate research and development in AI applications.

4. Leadership Insights on the Strategic Cooperation

• Phạm Thanh Tuấn, CEO of FPT China:
  “With our experienced team and extensive global network, we are committed to collaborating with Kingdee to enhance competitiveness and scale international growth. In the first year, we aim to build a team of 20 experts dedicated to this partnership, ensuring long-term value creation for both companies.”

• Lin Facheng, Vice President of Kingdee China:
  “This strategic alliance will maximize our combined strengths in technology, market expansion, and customer service. FPT’s international expertise and service network will significantly enhance Kingdee’s global customer experience and deliver high-quality solutions worldwide.”

Kingdee & FPT China

Kingdee’s Market Leadership

• Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Kingdee specializes in:
  • Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
  • Finance and HR management solutions
  • Digital transformation services for industries like manufacturing, retail, and finance

FPT China’s Expansion & Commitment to Innovation

• Since entering China in 2017, FPT has expanded in Shanghai, Dalian, and other key cities, establishing itself as a trusted technology solutions provider.
• Key focus areas include:
  • Automotive and semiconductor industries
  • Collaboration with top Chinese universities to cultivate high-quality tech talent
  • Driving digital transformation for enterprises across Asia-Pacific

The FPT-Kingdee strategic partnership represents a pivotal step toward global digital transformation. By leveraging AI, cloud computing, and enterprise solutions, both companies will drive innovation, enhance business efficiencies, and expand into new international markets. Their collaborative approach to technology and market integration positions them as key players in the future of global enterprise digitalization.

QAD, a leading provider of cloud-based manufacturing and supply chain solutions, has appointed Sanjay Brahmawar as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective March 17. Sanjay, formerly CEO of Software AG, succeeds Anton Chilton, who is stepping back after over 20 years of service.

Sanjay’s appointment signals QAD’s commitment to innovation, customer success, and global growth, building on its strong foundation in smart manufacturing and supply chain optimization.

Sanjay Brahmawar’s Leadership & Vision

1. Proven Track Record in Digital Transformation

• As CEO of Software AG, Sanjay led a strategic transformation that modernized the company into a high-growth, customer-focused enterprise.
• He enhanced product leadership, built a strong go-to-market strategy, and expanded offerings through mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

2. Extensive Industry Expertise

• Before Software AG, Sanjay held key leadership positions at IBM, where he managed global revenue for Watson IoT.
• His background includes leadership roles at PwC, FedEx, DSM, and Honda, providing him with deep insights into technology, business operations, and customer engagement.

3. Commitment to QAD’s Growth and Innovation

• Sanjay’s mission at QAD focuses on:
  • Accelerating growth through product innovation.
  • Strengthening customer-centric solutions.
  • Expanding QAD’s global footprint.
• His leadership will help QAD enhance digital transformation capabilities and deliver greater value to manufacturers and supply chain leaders worldwide.

Leadership Support & Transition Plan

• Charles Goodman, Chairman of QAD’s Board of Directors and Thoma Bravo Operating Partner, emphasized the strategic importance of Sanjay’s appointment:
  “Sanjay joins QAD at a pivotal time. His expertise in innovation and strong sense of customer needs make him the perfect choice to lead us forward.”
• Anton Chilton, outgoing CEO, will support the transition through May 2025, ensuring continuity and seamless execution of strategic initiatives.

QAD’s Recent Innovations & Strategic Acquisitions

Under Anton Chilton’s leadership, QAD strengthened its core solutions through key acquisitions, including:

• Redzone Connected Workforce – Empowering frontline workers with real-time collaboration tools to boost efficiency.
• LiveJourney Process Intelligence – Enhancing process mining and data-driven decision-making for optimized operations.

These additions reinforce QAD’s mission to integrate People, Process, and Systems for seamless manufacturing and supply chain operations.

With Sanjay Brahmawar at the helm, QAD is positioned for accelerated innovation and global expansion. His deep expertise in digital transformation, AI-driven solutions, and enterprise technology will drive QAD’s next phase of growth, ensuring customers benefit from advanced, future-ready solutions.

Indian influencer Tariq Mushtaq Khatri has made history by setting a world record in digital marketing, achieving unprecedented engagement rates and cost efficiency. His 90-day Meta ad campaign generated record-breaking numbers, solidifying India’s role as a powerhouse in global digital advertising.

The milestone was unveiled on February 28, 2025, at a press conference at the Bombay Press Club, where industry experts and media professionals witnessed Khatri’s groundbreaking achievement in real-time.

Breaking the Digital Marketing Barrier

Khatri’s strategically executed 183 Meta ad campaign delivered:

• Total Views: 56.6 million
• Total Engagements: 25.7 million
• Total Reach: 26 million people
• Reach Growth: 245.3% increase
• Engagement Rate: 99% (industry-defying benchmark)

Beyond engagement, the campaign shattered records in cost efficiency:

• Cost per engagement: INR 16.24 (~$0.19 USD)
• Cost per million views: INR 7,370 (~$88 USD)
• Total Ad Spend: INR 417,420 (~$5,000 USD)

Live Demonstration Stuns Industry Experts

During the press conference, Khatri demonstrated his real-time campaign results using ChatGPT and Grok, leaving industry leaders astonished. His engagement rate was 90 times higher than global superstars, and the cost per view was so low that AI systems initially deemed the figures unrealistic.

Recognition and Industry Impact

1. Historic Milestone for Indian Digital Marketing

• Major Indian news outlets have recognized Khatri’s achievement as a game-changer for India's digital marketing sector.
• India’s government is expected to officially acknowledge his contribution as part of its digital economy strategy.

2. Setting a New Global Advertising Benchmark

• The achievement has been submitted to Guinness World Records for verification.
• If approved, it will be the first-ever world record in cost-efficient influencer marketing, creating a new standard in digital advertising.

3. India’s Rising Influence in Global Digital Advertising

Khatri’s campaign proves that high-ROI digital marketing is not about big budgets but strategic execution. His success is expected to:

• Attract global brands to India for cost-effective influencer marketing.
• Empower Indian digital marketers with new opportunities.
• Redefine global advertising strategies by prioritizing engagement-driven efficiency.

“Tariq Khatri’s campaign is a wake-up call for global brands. It proves that smart digital marketing is not about big budgets—it’s about strategic execution and audience understanding.”
– Ravi Malhotra, Chief Digital Strategist, Global AdTech Solutions

What’s Next? Expanding the Impact

Khatri is now focused on:

1. Partnering with Global Brands to provide cost-effective advertising solutions.
2. Mentoring Indian Influencers to dominate the digital space.
3. Strengthening India’s Role in international digital marketing.

A Call to Global Brands: The Future of Digital Marketing is in India

With higher engagement rates and lower advertising costs than Western markets, India is now a prime destination for global digital marketing investments.

“Tariq Khatri’s world record proves that data-driven marketing can rewrite the rules of digital engagement. The future of advertising belongs to those who innovate—and India is leading the charge!”
– Mayur M. Gunjal, Head of Communication

Tariq Khatri’s record-breaking achievement marks a turning point in digital marketing, proving that Indian influencers can deliver massive engagement at minimal cost. As brands seek more efficient digital advertising strategies, Khatri’s success sets the stage for India’s global leadership in high-ROI marketing.