Uma Rudd Chia

Uma Rudd Chia – Global Creative Leader, Best-Selling Author & Speaker

Uma Rudd Chia is a multi-award-winning global creative leader, best-selling author, and keynote speaker with over 20 years of experience in advertising, branding, and marketing strategy. As the Co-Founder and Executive Creative Director of KVUR, she has spearheaded groundbreaking campaigns for some of the world’s most recognised brands across industries including hospitality, tourism, FMCG, AI, and digital innovation.

Global Creative Leadership & Award-Winning Campaigns

Uma has held global creative leadership roles at agencies such as Ogilvy, Saatchi & Saatchi, Euro RSCG (Havas), and JWT, shaping the creative direction of major international brands. Her work has been recognised with top industry accolades, including:
• Cannes Lions
• D&AD Awards
• One Show
• Spikes Asia
• New York Festivals
• Effie Awards

She has led high-impact campaigns, including the global Pampers campaign that ranked #3 in the 2014 Super Bowl, as well as key brand initiatives for Johnson’s Baby and Philips Baby Products in APAC. In the travel and hospitality sector, she has worked with Hilton APAC, Singapore Tourism Board, Scoot, and The Ascott Group, helping to drive inbound tourism and market leadership.

Penguin Random House Best-Selling Author

Uma is a best-selling author with Penguin Random House, known for her thought-provoking and industry-defining books:
• “The Spotted Zebra” – A best-selling guide on embracing individuality and personal branding.
• “Hey Pastor, Your Church is Going Out of Business” – A critical look at the future of church leadership.
• “Who Killed Death?” – A philosophical exploration of mortality and belief.
• “10 Things Brands Could Do to Survive a Crisis” – A playbook for businesses navigating disruption.

Trusted Advisor & Thought Leader

Beyond advertising, Uma is a strategic advisor to governments across APAC on nation branding and tourism. Fluent in English, Bahasa Melayu, and Bahasa Indonesia, she applies a culturally attuned approach to crafting compelling narratives that resonate on a global scale.

Globally Recognised Speaker & Industry Influence

A sought-after keynote speaker, Uma has spoken in 22+ countries at global conferences such as SXSW, Pause Fest, Forrester Global, and She Loves Data, covering AI, branding, and women’s empowerment.

Her industry expertise has earned her a seat on the executive jury for the Gerety Awards, where she helps define the future of creativity and marketing.

As a futurist and innovation advocate, Uma continues to push creative boundaries, shaping the global conversation on AI, branding, and storytelling in the digital age.