A Seasoned Healthcare Leader Takes Charge with a Focus on Innovation, Strategy, and Real Impact
Dorelle Kulkarni has rejoined Havas Life Mumbai as its new Managing Director, marking a significant return to one of India’s leading healthcare communication agencies.
She succeeds Sangeeta Barde and steps into a role focused on driving innovation, market expansion, and strategic leadership for the agency’s next phase.
A Deep-Rooted Connection with the Brand
Kulkarni brings over 30 years of experience in the healthcare and wellness sector. She is not new to Havas Life—having spent a decade with the agency during its Sorento Healthcare days.
Over the years, she has held key leadership roles at Publicis Health and Lowe Lintas. At both agencies, she led high-impact campaigns for global pharma leaders such as Abbott, GSK, Pfizer, MSD, Novartis, Glenmark, and Novo Nordisk.
This long-standing familiarity with the brand gives her a unique advantage as she takes the helm once again.
Strategic Role and Key Collaborations
In her new role, Kulkarni will report to Charles Houdoux, Global Chief Client Officer and CEO, Havas Health LATAM and APAC.
She will also work closely with Rana Barua, Group CEO of Havas India, SEA, and North Asia. Together, they aim to bring Havas Life Mumbai closer to the Havas India Village framework—a collaborative, cross-functional ecosystem that promotes integration and synergy across business units.
Additionally, she will collaborate with Sachin Talwalkar, Chief Creative Officer, to reshape the agency’s creative vision for the evolving healthcare space.
Global Perspective with Local Relevance
“Dorelle’s return to Havas Life is a major gain,” said Charles Houdoux.
“Healthcare advertising today is at a tipping point. It’s more than branding—it’s a lifeline of the economy. Her strategic mindset, global exposure, and deep industry knowledge make her the right leader at the right time.
India is leading innovation in digital health, personalized care, and patient-centric solutions. With Dorelle, we’re confident of delivering meaningful results for both clients and communities.”
A Heartfelt Homecoming
For Kulkarni, the move back to Havas Life Mumbai feels personal.
“It really does feel like coming home,” she shared.
“The team here is full of energy and ambition. I’m not here to just create ideas for slides—I want to build solutions that spark real change across the health and wellness spectrum.”
Her vision aligns with the agency’s mission to create work that goes beyond creativity and drives outcomes that matter.
A Defining Moment for Havas Life Mumbai
Rana Barua was equally enthusiastic about her return.
“Dorelle isn’t just a strategist—she’s a bold thinker with a passion for healthcare that’s contagious,” he said.
“We’re at a pivotal point in the healthcare communications space. Having someone with her experience and vision at the helm is a game changer.
I’d also like to sincerely thank Sangeeta Barde for her tremendous leadership and wish her success in everything ahead.”
More Than a Role—It’s a Refreshing Shift in Direction
Kulkarni’s appointment marks more than a leadership update. It reflects a shift in how Havas Life Mumbai views the rapidly evolving healthcare ecosystem.
The agency is doubling down on forward-thinking strategies, collaborative integration, and impactful, action-led campaigns that address real-world healthcare challenges.
Final Thoughts
With Kulkarni steering the ship, Havas Life Mumbai is positioned not only to lead but also to transform how healthcare communication connects with brands, patients, and society at large.
