Creative Heavyweight Kalpesh Patankar Returns to VML

VML, a leading global marketing transformation agency, has announced the appointment of Kalpesh ‘Kal’ Patankar as group chief creative officer, India. Kalpesh brings nearly two decades of award-winning experience to the role, most recently serving as chief creative officer at Leo Burnett Dubai. Reporting to global chief creative officer Debbi Vandeven, Kalpesh will be responsible for leading VML’s creative vision in India and is a member of VML’s global creative board.

Kalpesh’s appointment marks a significant addition to VML’s creative leadership. One of the industry’s most effective and internationally awarded creatives, he helped Leo Burnett reach no.1 on WARC’s Effective 100 Rankings in 2024, as well as being listed on The Fast Company’s Middle East Most Innovative Companies 2023/2024. Kalpesh’s deep creative expertise is evidenced by his numerous accolades and past jury roles. He served as industry craft jury president for Cannes Lions 2024 and was recently appointed jury president for D&AD Awards 2025, Press and Outdoor. He is regularly named among the top ranking global creatives such as Adweek’s Top 10 Global Agency Leaders.

“We are looking forward to having Kal back on our global creative team. Under his creative leadership, brand building and the level of craft will flourish. He has a unique ability to bring humanity and creativity together to deliver solutions for clients that transcend marketing,” added Debbi Vandeven, global chief creative officer, VML.

Kal is no stranger to VML, having previously held the position of CCO at VMLY&R Dubai. His legacy includes transforming agencies into creative powerhouses that are consistently recognised on the global stage. Under his leadership, both VMLY&R Dubai and Leo Burnett Dubai achieved global acclaim, from driving business wins to creating famous, industry-leading work. His leadership has earned recognitions including “MEA Agency of the Decade” at Cannes Lions, multiple “Agency of the Year” awards at Dubai Lynx, MENA Effies and Jay Chiat Awards. He has also been recognised as Campaign Middle East’s Advertising Creative Person of the Year.

"I have been fortunate to have worked with wonderful people that have made every success possible," said Kalpesh Patankar. "I am excited to build a team culture that is dedicated to the success of our clients, allowing us to home in on perfecting our craft in pursuit of impact."

Kalpesh’s deep understanding of brand building coupled with his expertise in building strong client relationships, makes him a valuable addition to VML. Returning to India after nearly 20 years in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, he brings a global perspective to the India business. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the agency's continued growth and success in the region.