MUMBAI: In a week that felt more like a blockbuster premiere than a boardroom shuffle, the exhibition industry welcomed two new leading men to its executive cast. Gautam Verma announced his new role as chief digital officer at a prominent exhibition firm, bringing with him a wealth of experience in digital transformation and strategic planning. Verma’s appointment signals a push towards integrating cutting-edge technology into exhibition experiences, aiming to enhance engagement and reach.
Meanwhile, Sanjay Barjatya has been promoted to chief executive officer at Roongta Cinemas, a division of Roongta Entertainment Limited. With over 19 years in the entertainment sector, Barjatya’s ascent reflects his deep understanding of cinema operations and audience preferences. His leadership is expected to drive Roongta Cinemas into a new era of innovation and expansion.
For Verma, who officially assumed his new role in May 2025, this marks a sharp pivot from healthtech to travel. Prior to joining Travelwings, he was a founding member and marketing lead at Eka.care, where he spent over four years building integrated marketing strategies in the healthcare space. Before that, he co-founded Adapts Media and held marketing roles at DAMAC Properties in the UAE, gaining strong experience in business strategy, SEO, and international campaigns.
Meanwhile, Barjatya’s journey through the exhibition sector reads like a manual in operations mastery. Starting out at PVR in 2004, he steadily climbed the industry ladder with stints at M2K Cinemas, Cinemax India, OSR Cinemas, Miraj Entertainment, and now Roongta. From managing two-screen properties to overseeing regional operations and business development across India, his portfolio boasts multi-theatre P&L management, developer relations, and expansion strategy. He served as VP of Roongta before being named CEO in September 2024.
In an industry where the spotlight is often on the show, it’s the strategic minds behind the scenes that set the stage for success.