MARKS & SPENCER APPOINTS GAYATRI SOLANKI TO LEAD MARKETING, PR AND BRAND COMMUNICATION IN INDIA

Marks & Spencer has named Gayatri Solanki as Chief Manager Marketing, PR & Brand Communication. Joining from Bath & Body Works, where she served as Senior Manager – Marketing, Solanki will oversee marketing, public relations and brand communication functions, supporting the retailer’s efforts to further strengthen its brand presence in India.

Marks & Spencer has appointed Gayatri Solanki as its new Chief Manager Marketing, PR & Brand Communication, strengthening its leadership team as the retailer continues to sharpen its brand positioning and customer engagement strategy in India.

Solanki takes on the role following her tenure at Bath & Body Works, where she served as Senior Manager – Marketing. Her move marks a significant addition to Marks & Spencer’s marketing and communications function at a time when brands operating in India’s highly competitive retail landscape are increasingly investing in stronger consumer connections and consistent brand storytelling.

In her new position, Solanki will be responsible for overseeing the company’s marketing, public relations and brand communication activities. The role places her at the centre of efforts aimed at enhancing brand visibility, strengthening stakeholder engagement and ensuring a cohesive communication strategy across channels.

The appointment reflects Marks & Spencer’s focus on reinforcing its presence in the Indian market through integrated marketing initiatives and impactful brand communication. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, retailers are placing greater emphasis on building authentic relationships with customers while maintaining a clear and distinctive brand identity.

Solanki brings with her experience in marketing management and brand-building from her time at Bath & Body Works. Her background is expected to support Marks & Spencer’s ongoing efforts to deepen customer engagement and drive awareness across its product categories.

Industry observers note that leadership appointments in marketing and communications have become increasingly important as companies navigate a rapidly changing retail environment shaped by digital engagement, shifting consumer preferences and heightened competition. Effective communication strategies now play a critical role in influencing purchasing decisions and fostering long-term brand loyalty.

At Marks & Spencer, Solanki will work across key communication functions, helping to align marketing campaigns, public relations initiatives and brand messaging. Her responsibilities are expected to contribute to a stronger and more unified brand voice in the market.

The appointment also underscores the growing importance of integrated communications within retail organisations, where marketing, reputation management and brand positioning are increasingly interconnected. By bringing together these functions under a dedicated leadership role, Marks & Spencer aims to further strengthen its communication and marketing efforts in India.

With Solanki now at the helm of marketing, PR and brand communication, the retailer is positioning itself to build deeper consumer engagement and enhance its brand presence in one of its key growth markets. Her experience and expertise are expected to play an important role in supporting the company’s ambitions and advancing its communication objectives in the country.