Sony Pictures Networks India Realigns Leadership Team

Sony Pictures Networks India has realigned its leadership team as part of a refreshed operating model aimed at advancing its vision to become a content-first, platform-agnostic entertainment company.

“As we look ahead to our next phase of growth, we have reviewed our operating model and organisational structure to ensure they best support our goals,” said Gaurav Banerjee, managing director and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India. “We are redefining our content strategy from a largely linear-first to a linear and digital approach that delivers seamless consumer experience across platforms. By empowering our teams with greater ownership and driving deeper collaboration, we will improve focus, agility and execution across the organization, while strengthening our customer-centric approach across brand and content.”

As part of the updated model, Nachiket Pantvaidya will lead Sony Entertainment Television, Sony Marathi and movie production. Ajay Bhalwankar will spearhead Sony SAB, the movies cluster, and free-to-air and infotainment channels. Rajaraman Sundaram will head up the company’s regional expansion into the South of India. Ambesh Tiwari, meanwhile, will lead Sony AATH, alongside the kids’ business.

SPNI will also consolidate key revenue streams across ad sales and distribution and its sports and international business, headed by Rajesh Kaul as chief revenue officer. Akshay Agrawal has been promoted to as head of linear ad sales. Makarand Palekar has been elevated as to head of linear distribution. Ranjana Mangla, who currently heads digital ad sales, will additionally handle the company’s YouTube growth strategy. Manish Aggarwal will spearhead Sony LIV’s B2B and syndication business.

In other support functions, Gaurav Laghate will lead external relations as head of the corporate brand, PR and corporate communications, while administration and facilities will be aligned to human resources, headed by Manu Wadhwa as CHRO.