ITV Taps Paramount Alum as Distribution Director

Akhila Khanna has been tapped by ITV to head up the media and entertainment division’s U.K. distribution strategy in the role of director of distribution.

Starting in October, Khanna will lead the execution of the distribution strategy of ITVX and ITV channels for all linear and streaming platforms while managing all aspects of the implementation of the deals and ongoing relationships with partner platforms.

Khanna joins ITV from Paramount, where she is currently senior VP for partnerships and business development, leading the distribution of Paramount’s streaming portfolio across the U.K. Khanna previously held roles at A+E Networks and CNBC in the U.K., U.S. and India and began her career on NBC’s graduate Page Program in Burbank, California.

Khanna said: “After an exciting and fulfilling seven years at Paramount International, I am thrilled to take on my next challenge at the U.K.’s largest commercial broadcaster. The experience I have acquired in my different roles to date will help to further grow ITV’s linear and streaming services, and I’m looking forward to working with Jane, the team and the distribution partners.”

Jane Stiller, ITV’s chief viewer officer, said: “ITV’s distribution strategy, and working closely with our platform and technology partners, is a key part of ensuring that our content is as easily accessible as possible. The hugely successful growth of ITVX since its launch gives Akhila strong foundations to build on, and I’m really looking forward to welcoming her to the team. The experience she brings will enable us to build on this important element of our work as ITV continues to develop through both ITVX and linear channels.”

Khanna will be an important part of Stiller’s leadership team within the viewer experience group, together with leaders from marketing, product and insights. This group is responsible for the strategy and delivery of an end-to-end viewer experience from off to on platform across owned and partner platforms.

Martin Goswami, ITV’s group strategy partnership and distribution director, will remain on hand to support Khanna in an advisory capacity until he steps down at the end of the year.