ITV

Category: People

  • Sangeetha Aiyer calls it a day at Network18 Media & Investments

    Sangeetha Aiyer calls it a day at Network18 Media & Investments

    MUMBAI: After almost a decade, Sangeetha Aiyer has stepped down from her mandate as head marketing, digital business at Network18 Media & Investments Ltd. As part of her recent elevation, she was responsible for the marketing and brand initiatives of Network 18 digital platforms which include FirstPost, MoneyControl, CNBCTV18.com News18 English and News18 Vernacular.

    In her previous avatar with Network18, as the head, marketing and digital, A+E Networks|TV18 (the JV between A+E Networks and TV18), she played a significant role in spearheading the growth strategy for the JV, specifically the brand History TV18 and FYI TV18. As one of the key founding members of the JV, she was instrumental in leading the launch strategy of History TV18 and FYI TV18. Her efforts and astute marketing acumen have resulted in both brands being leaders in their respective genres.

    The two very popular franchises, OMG! Yeh Mera India and Small Budget Big Makeover in the factual and lifestyle space continue to be runaway hits in the factual & lifestyle genres, contributing to eyeballs not just on linear television but on social and digital platforms as well. Under her watch HISTORY TV18 blossomed into a digital powerhouse delivering more than a billion impressions, annually, and in the process winning multiple awards nationally and globally.

    A wearer of several hats, Aiyer has also led branded content function for the JV to create cost-efficient solutions to achieve significant deltas in revenue. From conceptualising and executing display & digital sales solutions to long format branded content, she has been adept at identifying revenue growth opportunities and has successfully executed various content projects across formats and platform

    With a career spanning over 19 years, Aiyer is an experienced marketer with comprehensive experience across industries including radio, retail and advertising and has worked with esteemed organizations like Times Network, Reliance Media Network, Star Network and Arvind Brands to name a few.

  • Discovery India appoints Black White Orange as L & M partner for Fukrey Boyzzz

    Discovery India appoints Black White Orange as L & M partner for Fukrey Boyzzz

    MUMBAI: Fukrey Boyzzz, a rib-tickling production from Discovery Kids, launched in association with Excel Entertainment, which helped the channel reach the top 3 position in the first week of launch itself, has attracted lots of queries in the Licensing & Merchandising space. Discovery India has appointed Black White Orange (BWO) as the Licencing partner to harness the full potential of the newly launched IP beyond TV.

    BWO is working closely with Discovery India and Excel Entertainment to conceptualise designs and represent the IP across a wide range of categories. BWO is targeting to reach out to interested partners in back-to-school, apparel, toys and novelty products’ space.

    “Fukrey franchise extends beyond demographics; Fukrey Boyzzz has added another level of zing to it – which is what we are targeting to leverage in the L&M space,” said, Discovery Managing Director – South Asia Megha Tata. “We are delighted to partner with BWO in our endeavour to ensure that Fukrey Boyzzz fans get to experience and engage with the iconic characters beyond TV, both online as well as offline, by early 2020.”

    “Fukrey Boyzzz has opened new vistas; new horizons for us. An L&M partnership is a natural extension to fully tap the hidden potential of this iconic franchise whose following transcends varied demographics,” said, Excel Entertainment  Co-Founder Ritesh Sidhwani. “We are keen
    to work with partners who understand and imbibe the ethos of the Fukrey franchise.”

    “The Fukrey franchise has a huge fan base in India and Fukrey Boyzzz is a treat for kids with extremely entertaining content! We are excited to work with the Discovery Kids team to take the brand to the next level with merchandise and interesting licensing partnerships,” said,  Black White Orange Brands Pvt. Ltd Founder & CEO Bhavik Vora.

    ‘Fukrey Boyzzz’ features characters from the Excel Entertainment film – Choocha, Hunny, Laali and Bholi Punjaban – in their animated avatars. At the press launch of Fukrey Boyzzz, all lead actors including Richa Chadha, Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma and Manjot Singh were seen in
    Fukrey Boyzzz inspired fashion wear. The style guide being developed for the L&M leverages the well-defined characters of the franchise in a fun way.

  • Sony Pictures Network’s Sneha Rajani quits after 20 years with the organisation

    Sony Pictures Network’s Sneha Rajani quits after 20 years with the organisation

    MUMBAI: Sneha Rajani, Head of Sony Pictures Networks (SPN’s) film production division, Sony Pictures Networks Productions (SPNP), has decided to move on, after an illustrious career of 20 years with the organisation.

     Sneha’s contribution to the organization has been immense. The line-up of her illustrious achievements is long. She has been instrumental in launching Sony MAX, which is India’s leading movie channel, revolutionizing the content of Sony Entertainment Television(SET) with shows like Bade Acche Lagte Hai, Kuch Toh Log Kahenge, Parvarish etc., and then propelling a multitude of Hindi movie hits with the production of Piku, Azhar, Mubarkaan and Soorma.

    She has also led some of the industry’s firsts like the iconic cricket wrap-around show ‘Extraaa Innings’ with a female presenter for the first time ever and created television history not only with the ratings but how cricket began to be consumed in this country. In addition, Rajani has played a valuable role in shaping the diversity agenda of SPN, enabling an inclusive work environment.

      “At an organizational level, Sneha’s contributions have been game changing. She has successfully chaperoned the organization’s growth from launching Sony MAX, India’s leading Hindi movies channel to leading our flagship channel, SET, and establishing SPN’s theatrical division – SPNP and many more. She has been an active crusader for dignity and has led the diversity team at SPN, shaping the organization into a truly inclusive workplace. Her dedication and commitment to the organization’s cause has been unflinching and symbolic of her loyalty. Sneha’s exit later next month will leave a large void in SPN’s management team. My best wishes are with her,” SPN managing director and CEO NP Singh commented.

  • WarnerMedia makes top level APAC changes

    WarnerMedia makes top level APAC changes

    MUMBAI: Ricky Ow has been named president, WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, distribution and advertising sales, APAC, uniting Turner Asia Pacific and HBO Asia to create a combined powerhouse of leading brands, in the first of a series of key appointments announced today by Giorgio Stock, president, WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, distribution and advertising sales, EMEA and APAC.

    Ow, previously president, Turner Asia Pacific, takes on responsibility for all entertainment networks, distribution of all networks, advertising sales and the kids networks operations in the Asia Pacific region and reports into Stock.

    “Ricky has done a tremendous job in building a team that has transformed our business in Asia, investing in award-winning premium content, developing completely new revenue streams and optimising operations. I’m confident that he and his extended team will deliver even more to our partners and invest further in what we offer our fans,” said Stock.

    Jonathan Spink, CEO, HBO Asia, will be leaving the company. “I want to thank Jonathan, who over his long tenure has led the Asian team with passion, entrepreneurship, and a focus on innovation, applying throughout his good humour and a healthy dose of common sense. I am looking forward to having his precious advice and his insights through the end of this year as we bring our companies together and prepare for a new chapter,” Stock added.

    “It has been a truly exceptional experience leading HBO Asia over these past years,” said Spink. “It has been a wonderful journey and I wish the company every success for the future.”

    With the new organisation, Clement Schwebig has been promoted to managing director, WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, Southeast Asia, Pacific and China, effective immediately. Schwebig will be based in Singapore and continue to report to Ow.

    In his new role, Schwebig will oversee all entertainment networks including HBO and its family of channels, OTT service and two SVOD services, Warner TV, local content channels Red and Oh!K, as well as Cartoon Network and the kids portfolio, and all digital ventures. His responsibilities include operations, advertising sales, and the distribution of all networks including CNN International, HLN and BabyFirst.

    Previously, Schwebig was CFO of Turner Asia Pacific, SVP business development and licensing for the region, as well as managing director of China. Over the past 6 years he has been leading the financial growth, as well as successfully driving the company’s strong expansion beyond its core business in China and location-based entertainment businesses. Schwebig joined Turner in 2013 after spending more than a decade managing substantial TV operations in Europe and Asia.

    “Clement is a seasoned business leader who has substantial experience encompassing all aspects of business operations in TV broadcasting and production, strategy, finance and sales,” said Ow. “With his deep understanding of our business in Asia Pacific, Clement is ideally suited to lead our networks and commercial operations in Southeast Asia Pacific and China, playing an even more active role in shaping the direction and strategy as we transform into a modern media company,” he added.

    “I’m grateful for the confidence Giorgio and Ricky have placed in me. Combining the strengths of all our teams behind powerful brands like HBO, CNN and Cartoon Network positions us for a sustainable growth of our business as we evolve rapidly in order to engage our consumers across multiple touchpoints, with standout content, leveraging data and technology. I have a deep respect for the success HBO Asia has achieved and will build upon the legacy established by Jonathan and his executive team. I am particularly looking forward to working with the Turner and HBO teams in Singapore, which are known in the industry for their creativity and innovative mindset,” said Schwebig.

    Stock also announced changes in the key support functions of finance and legal.

    Steve Burton, executive vice president, HBO Asia, will leave the company. “Steve’s many contributions to the HBO Asia business have been integral to the business success over the years, with his drive and commitment,” said Stock. “He leaves us well-equipped to take advantage of future opportunities.”

    Jamie Friend, currently SVP and CFO for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, EMEA, has been promoted to take on the additional responsibility of helming the company's financial planning and analysis for APAC as well. "Jamie’s business acumen, innovative thinking and strategic vision is a powerful combination which has already been invaluable to our existing EMEA operation,” said Stock. “Now he will bring those skills to the Asian region to shape and support how we evolve the business in today’s fast-changing media landscape.”

    Also supporting the new organisation in APAC are regional legal counsels Annabel Archer and Lawrence Yuen who report into Alessandra Chichi, chief legal counsel for WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks, distribution and advertising sales EMEA and APAC region.

    Jamie also reports into Trey Turner, EVP and chief financial officer, WarnerMedia sales & international; Alessandra also reports into Melissa Roper Barnett, EVP and general counsel, WarnerMedia Sales & International.

    These appointments for Asia Pacific are part of WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks efforts to position its business in the region for further growth and take its portfolio of brands to the next level.

    Spanning 42 countries in 14 languages, WarnerMedia Entertainment Asia Pacific brands include Warner TV, Oh!K, Mondo TV, Mondo Mah-Jong TV, TABI Channel, Tabi Tele, Cartoon Network, Boomerang, POGO and Tuzki together with HBO, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO Hits, Cinemax and Red as well as the OTT service HBO Go, and two SVOD services HBO On Demand and Ding Ji Ju Chang. WarnerMedia Entertainment Networks is also responsible for the distribution of CNN International, HLN and BabyFirst in Asia.

  • Sony Picture Networks India’s NP Singh re-elected as IBF president

    Sony Picture Networks India’s NP Singh re-elected as IBF president

    MUMBAI: At the 20th annual general meeting of the Indian Broadcasting Federation (IBF), Sony Pictures Networks India chief executive officer NP Singh has been re-elected as the foundation’s president.

    “I am elated to lead IBF when the industry is at crossroads trying desperately to have some iota of certainty and stability in the regulatory space. IBF leads the advocacy for the broadcasting fraternity and strives to provide an invigorating atmosphere for the sector to grow. To provide the leadership at this crucial juncture comes both as a challenge and opportunity. I look forward to meet all the challenges in conjunction with the Board members and office bearers of the Foundation. I am confident that in keeping with the vision of Prime Minister of digital India and ease of doing business, the sector will get its legitimate recognition,” Singh commented  on the re-election.

    Other new IBF office bearers for the year 2019-20 include Rajat Sharma, chairman, India TV (vice-president), Sudhanshu Vats, group chief executive officer, Viacom18 India (vice-president), K Madhavan, managing director, Asianet Communications Ltd (vice-president), Siddharth Jain, managing director (South Asia), Turner International (vice-president) and Shashi Shekhar Vempati, chief executive officer, Prasar Bharati (treasurer).

  • Nitin Bawankule to join as Star India head of ad sales from 1 October

    Nitin Bawankule to join as Star India head of ad sales from 1 October

    MUMBAI: Star India, today announced the appointment of Nitin Bawankule as the head of ad sales. In this role, Bawankule will be responsible for leading ad sales across both linear broadcast and OTT for Star TV network and Hotstar respectively. This appointment is effective 1 October 2019 and will report to Star and Disney India country manager Sanjay Gupta.

    “The media and entertainment industry is poised for rapid growth and our viewership continues to reach newer heights. With Nitin’s proficiency in growing teams and scaling businesses, his prowess in building long-term partnerships, and his mastery of the consumer internet space, I am confident that he will play a pivotal role in shaping and driving our ambitious growth strategy in the years to come,” said Sanjay Gupta.

    “Star is a great brand and has played a lead role in transforming the media and entertainment industry in India. It’s truly an honour to be a part of such an exceptional organization and I look forward to all the great things we will accomplish together,” said Nitin Bawankule.

    Bawankule has over two decades of experience in global sales, building large businesses and expanding into new markets. His expertise includes scaling sales organisations, establishing strategic partnerships and helping build long-lasting relationships with some of the biggest global internet and consumer brands.

    Prior to joining Star, Bawankule worked with Google for over eight years. In his last role, as the Country Director for Google Cloud India, he spearheaded the exponential growth of Cloud adoption in the country. In addition, Bawankule has led the Google Ads business as Industry Director. Prior to joining Google, Bawankule worked with Dell as a Director, where he handled multiple sales and business roles.

    Bawankule holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing and Finance from Indian Institute of Management Bangalore and Bachelor of Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology.

  • Tulsea hires Suchir Batra as SVP: reports

    Tulsea hires Suchir Batra as SVP: reports

    MUMBAI: Talent and content management company Tulsea has hired WME business affairs executive Suchir Batra as SVP, according to a report by Deadline. Batra will lead the company’s expanded international business based in Los Angeles.

    He will leverage his experience as an entertainment lawyer, agent and biz-affairs executive to come up with opportunities that are aligned with Tulsea’s plans and presence in India. He will also work with subsidiaries in India and Africa to generate more opportunities for Tulsea’s roster of talent, corporate and production company clients.

    Batra has previously worked at Fullscreen and Greenberg Traurig. He was also an agent at William Morris Agency before the Endeavor merger, helping to launch William Morris Consulting in the UK.

    Mumbai-based Tulsea, founded by Datta Dave and Chaitanya Hegde, has helped in getting writer and director talent for TV series and films including Sacred Games, Leila, Ghoul, Mirzapur, Made in Heaven, Metro Park, Brown Nation, Lipstick Under My Burkha, Udta Punjab, NH10, Masaan and Uri: The Surgical Strike.

    Additionally, Tulsea is also a strategic advisor for international and domestic studios, production companies and platforms.

  • Star India appoints Nitin Bawankule as head of ad sales

    Star India appoints Nitin Bawankule as head of ad sales

    MUMBAI: Google country director – India Nitin Bawankule will be joining Star India as head of ad sales from October. Bawankule has around 25 years of experience combining digital, IT, telecom and consumer electronic space.

    A source has confirmed the appointment of Bawankule in Star India to Indiantelevision.com. Prior to his role as country director – India, he was the industry director leading the E-commerce (online retail) and online classifieds (local, real estate, jobs and matrimonial), technology, education and government verticals at Google India.

    Earlier, he has been the director in Dell for Asia Pacific Japan region managing software and peripherals portfolio. His earlier roles include regional sales manager at Motorola and sales manager at Whirlpool and Godrej-GE Appliances.

    He has done Post Graduate Diploma in Management from IIM Bangalore and has a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) in Electronics from VNIT Nagpur.

  • Nikhil Gandhi quits Times Network as COO & president: reports

    Nikhil Gandhi quits Times Network as COO & president: reports

    MUMBAI: Times Network COO and president Nikhil Gandhi has resigned from his role, as per reports. Gandhi joined Times Network in February 2017 as revenue head and in July 2019 he was promoted as COO and president.

    This was his second stint with the network. He was part of the core team of Zoom during the launch of the channel.

    Prior to Times Network, Gandhi was associated with The Walt Disney Company and his last held position at Disney was vice president. He was also the business head at UTV. Gandhi began his career with Viacom18 in 2004 and moved to Bennett and Coleman and Co Ltd in January 2005.

    Gandhi has around 17 years of experience in media with revenue and business specialisation.

  • Zee Media CFO Sumit Kapoor steps down

    Zee Media CFO Sumit Kapoor steps down

    MUMBAI: Zee Media Corporation Ltd (ZMCL) chief financial officer (CFO) Sumit Kapoor has resigned from his position. His resignation will come to effect from 13 September.

    “This is to inform you that Sumit Kapoor has decided to pursue interest outside the company and has accordingly resigned from the statutory position of chief financial officer of the company with effect from close of business on 13 September 2019,” ZMCL informed the Bombay Stock Exchange in a filing.

    Kapoor had been appointed as the CFO of the company in December 2016. Kapoor, a commerce with MBA from IIT Roorkee (with specialisation in finance & marketing) who has also completed one-year Certificate Programme in Management and Leadership from Harvard Business School, Boston.

    Kapoor is a senior professional with experience of nearly two decades in business strategy and planning, investment proposals (national/international) and investors relations with various corporate houses including Monnet Group, E&Y, CB Richard Ellis and Deloitte.