A proud moment for India’s marketing and communications landscape, as Mr. V. Nandakumar, Director of Marketing and Communications at Lulu Group International, has been recognized as one of the most influential marketing professionals in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The recognition was announced at a prestigious Marketing and Communications Summit recently held in Dubai.
Further cementing his reputation, Forbes Middle East ranked Nandakumar 4th among the Top 5 marketing leaders in the Middle East. He is the only Indian, to feature on this elite list, which includes industry heavyweights such as Huda Buhumaid, Chief Marketing Officer of Dubai Holding, and Boutros Boutros, Executive Vice President of Emirates Group.
With over 30 years of experience in the fields of marketing and communications—and 25 of those years with Lulu Group—Nandakumar has been instrumental in shaping the brand’s global visibility and positioning. This recognition comes in the wake of the overwhelming response to Lulu Group’s IPO, which was oversubscribed more than 25 times at the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange in 2024.
Originally from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Nandakumar began his career in journalism, working with The Times of India and The Indian Express before transitioning to corporate communications in the Gulf region. His professional journey with Lulu Group began in 2001 as an Advertising Coordinator. He later served as Manager of Advertising & Promotions (2006–2012), followed by a successful stint as the Group’s Chief Communications Officer (2012–2020).
Now serving as Director of Marketing and Communications, Nandakumar brings strategic vision and deep industry insight to the multinational retail giant. His work has been recognized multiple times by Forbes Middle East for excellence in brand building, media relations, and corporate strategy.
Nandakumar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and Business from Sambalpur University. A respected voice in retail marketing, his journey stands as an inspiring example of global success rooted in Kerala.
