2024 Rewind: Power moves that reshaped media landscape

As 2024 draws to a close, we look back at the pivotal leadership changes in the television and OTT industry that defined the year. From mergers to new appointments, the broadcast sector saw significant shifts across its leadership landscape.

Following the mega merger of RIL and Disney in November, Kevin Vaz assumed the role of CEO-Entertainment at JioStar. Previously, he served as CEO of Broadcast Entertainment at Viacom18 since 2023, managing renowned brands like Colors and MTV. With over a decade of experience in the media and entertainment industry, Vaz also held key positions at The Walt Disney Company India, where he played a significant role in driving its multi-platform success.

In addition to his new role at JioStar, Vaz was appointed President of the Indian Broadcasting and Digital Foundation (IBDF) this month. Earlier in January, he also took on the position of Chairman of the FICCI Media & Entertainment Committee.

Another notable transition was Kiran Mani's move from Viacom18 to JioStar, where he assumed the role of CEO-Digital. Having joined Viacom18 in 2023, Mani brings over three decades of experience in the tech and media sectors. Previously, he held a key position at Google, where he was instrumental in shaping and executing digital business strategies.

A major milestone this year was the conclusion of NP Singh's 25-year tenure as CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), with Gaurav Banerjee stepping into the role in August. Since taking charge, Banerjee has implemented bold, strategic initiatives, including revamping Sony TV’s content strategy to boost viewership and securing exclusive ACC media rights for 2023–2031.

With over 16 years at Star India, Banerjee previously served as Head of Content for Hindi Entertainment at Disney+ Hotstar and Business Head for Star Bharat. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping Star’s entertainment portfolio and driving its growth.

Another significant development at Sony came with Neeraj Vyas stepping down as the Business Head of Sony Pictures Networks India in August. With a remarkable career spanning over three decades, Vyas decided to explore new entrepreneurial opportunities, marking the end of an influential tenure in the company.

In October, Sony Pictures Entertainment appointed Ravi Ahuja as the new CEO, effective January 2025. Ahuja, currently the Chairman of Global Television Studios and President and COO of SPE, brings extensive experience in managing global television operations and a proven track record of success. His leadership will be pivotal in guiding Sony Pictures Entertainment through the next phase of growth and innovation in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Another major shift in the industry occurred when K Madhavan, Country Manager and President of Disney Star, resigned in October. During his tenure, Madhavan played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategy and driving its growth, overseeing the operations of Disney, Star, and Disney+ Hotstar across General Entertainment, Sports, Direct-to-Consumer, and the Studios business. His leadership was instrumental in solidifying Disney Star’s position as a dominant force in the Indian media landscape.

In November, Sanjog Gupta was appointed CEO-Sports at JioStar. Before this, he led the Sports division at Star India, overseeing a portfolio of 17 channels and managing business, programming, marketing, and strategy. Gupta has been a key figure in shaping India's sports broadcasting landscape, having delivered major national and international events like the IPL and ICC Cricket World Cup to over 200 countries. He also played a crucial role in the growth of homegrown sports leagues, such as the Pro Kabaddi League and Indian Super League.

Disney Star also experienced several notable departures, including Sajith Sivanandan, who stepped down as Head of Disney+ Hotstar. Sivanandan had been a key figure in driving the platform’s growth and success. Devika Prabhu, who served as the Business Head for Kids and Infotainment, also moved on from her role, after contributing significantly to the development and expansion of Disney Star’s diverse content offerings in these categories. Additionally, Gurjeev Kapoor resigned from his position as Distribution Head at Disney Star, just days before the merger of RIL and Disney.

These leadership changes came at a pivotal time as the company prepared for a major shift in its strategic direction.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL), which has been navigating the aftermath of the merger fallout with Sony, saw its MD, Punit Goenka, resign from the position. However, he continues to serve as the CEO of the company.

In the news broadcast sector, ABP Network saw its CEO, Avinash Pandey, step down in June after nearly two decades of service. Another notable shift at ABP Network occurred when Vice President and National Sales Director, Parul Kamra, also decided to move on from the company.

In November, ABP Network appointed Sumanta Datta as its new CEO. With over three decades of experience leading commercial operations, marketing, and distribution across the consumer goods and durables sectors for major multinational companies, Datta brings extensive expertise to his new role.

Meanwhile, Zee Media Corporation Ltd (ZMCL) welcomed a new CEO, Karan Abhishek Singh, in July. Singh had stepped down as the CEO of Network18 Hindi News (TV + Digital) in February. He had joined Network18 in 2019, where he oversaw seven channels and the digital platform for the Hindi cluster.

As the year and month draw to a close, it also marks the end of MK Anand's 10-year tenure as CEO and MD at Times Network. Under his leadership, Times Network strengthened its position as a key player in the broadcasting industry, managing a diverse portfolio of channels, including Times Now, ET Now, and Mirror Now.

In the OTT/digital media space, Ishan Chatterjee, Head of YouTube India, was appointed Head of Business, Sports Revenue, SMB, and Creator at JioStar in November. Prior to the RIL-Disney merger in October, JioCinema brought him on board as Chief Business Officer. With over two decades of industry experience, Ishan most recently served as Managing Director at YouTube India, where he played a pivotal role in driving the platform’s growth and strategic direction.

In July, Sushant Sreeram exited Amazon Prime Video after more than six years as Country Director and joined JioStar as Head of Marketing. Amazon Prime Video also promoted Nikhil Madhok to Head of India Originals.

Another notable shift occurred when Aparna Purohit left Amazon Prime Video after eight years as Head of India and Southeast Asia Originals and joined Aamir Khan Productions as CEO.