Havas Life Mumbai, the healthcare communications division of Havas India, has announced the appointment of Dorelle Kulkarni as its new managing director. 

She moves from Publicis, where she was senior vice president.

Kulkarni will be succeeding Sangeeta Barde, CEO Havas Life Mumbai, India, and regional head, Havas Life Dubai (Middle East). 

In this role, Kulkarni will aim to drive the agency’s strategic expansion, strengthen its market position, and help in scaling the agency in the areas of innovation and growth.

She will report to Charles Houdoux, global chief client officer, CEO Havas Health LATAM & APAC, and collaborate closely with Rana Barua, group CEO, Havas India, SEA, and North Asia, to ensure successful integration with Havas India Village. 

Additionally, Kulkarni will work alongside Sachin Talwalkar, chief creative officer, Havas Life Mumbai, to drive strategic innovation and elevate the agency’s impact in healthcare communications.

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.”

Barua added, "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.”

Kulkarni said, "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." 

In a career spanning over three decades, she has also worked with Lowe Lintas and Sorento Healthcare Communications, now Havas Life Mumbai, among others.