Microsoft India appoints new head of business planning and strategy for its online services business
(Business News, 20 Nov 2007 )
Microsoft India has announced the appointment of Sumant Kaliwal as the Head of Business Planning & Strategy, Online Services Group. This appointment is part of Microsoft’s continued commitment to delivering the highest level of service and support to its customers. Sumant will be reporting to Jaspreet Bindra, India Country Manager, Online Service Business
Talking on Sumant’s appointment, Jaspreet Bindra, India Country Manager, Online Service Business said: “The Indian Internet market today is growing in strength day by day, with MSN India and the Windows Live Services clearly reflecting this growth. The appointment of Sumant is part of our commitment to strengthen our pool of experience and expertise that our customers have come to expect.”
In his new role, Sumant Kasliwal will be responsible for leveraging the strengths of MSN India and the Windows Live Services to create new opportunities and relationships with businesses in the Indian market, as well as helping the OSG team running the day-to-day business. Sumant brings in his vast experience in the online & media industry. Starting out as a consultant in Arthur Andersen & Associates, Sumant made a move into the private equity domain with ICICI Venture Funds. Sumant was the Assistant Vice President in ICICI where he managed a portfolio of over 15 companies in the Media & Entertainment, Internet & technology, online auction, and trading segment, where his responsibilities included formulating business strategy, creating partnerships, providing support in operations, technology and marketing and raising fresh capital. Sumant then moved to Star India, in his role as Vice President – New Media. At Star India, Sumant was responsible for building the online business and strategy for the Newscorp subsidiary as well as running the operations of Indya.com as Business Head.
Talking about his new role, Sumant said: “India is at the cusp of online revolution and believes that Microsoft with its tremendous brand strengths and commitment for online business is positioned best to take leadership role. I feel extremely excited and fortunate to be part of this team at Microsoft”.
