Sony Pictures Networks India appoints Gaurav Banerjee as its new CEO and MD

Media company Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has appointed Gaurav Banerjee as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

The transition will take effect on or before August 26, 2024, pending regulatory approvals. Gaurav Banerjee will succeed N.P. Singh, who has had a remarkable 25-year tenure leading the company.

Who is Gaurav Banerjee?

Gaurav Banerjee brings over two decades of experience in content creation and strategic leadership to his new role. His previous positions include Head of Content for Hindi Entertainment & Disney's Hotstar and Business Head for Star Bharat, Hindi & English Movies, Kids & Infotainment, and Regional (East).

In these roles, he oversaw content creation across multiple languages and spearheaded original series and films, including top shows like Anupam, Gham Hai Kis Ke Pyaar Mei, and Emmy-nominated Aarya, Special Ops, The Freelancer, and The Night Manager for Disney's Hotstar.

Gaurav's media journey began as an assistant producer and anchor at Aaj Tak, progressing to producing and anchoring Prime Time News shows at Star News.

He holds a master's degree in filmmaking and TV production from Jamia Milia Islamia University and an undergraduate degree in History from St. Stephens, Delhi.

What did the new CEO say about his appointment?

Gaurav Banerjee expressed his excitement about taking on the new role, stating, "I am deeply honoured to take on the role of MD & CEO at SPNI. Under N.P. Singh's remarkable leadership, SPNI has achieved tremendous success and innovation in the entertainment industry."

"I am excited to lead talented teams as we explore new frontiers in original programming, enhance our viewers’ experiences, drive our distribution footprint across India, and significantly boost our revenues. Together, we will set new benchmarks in entertainment and deliver exceptional value to our audiences and stakeholders," Banerjee said.

What did N.P. Singh say?

N.P. Singh, who will transition to the role of Non-Executive Chairman to support the change through the end of the fiscal year, shared his thoughts on the transition: "I am immensely proud of the success and innovation SPNI has achieved. I am confident that Gaurav will elevate SPNI's impressive portfolio to new heights. His visionary approach will undoubtedly continue our legacy of excellence and creativity."

:I look forward to supporting him and our talented team as we further our impact in content creation, audience engagement, and digital media initiatives. And most importantly, I would like to thank the entire SPNI team for being the fulcrum of our growth and success," Singh added.

Leadership comments

Ravi Ahuja, Chairman of Global Television Studios and President & COO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, commented on the appointment: "N.P. Singh's leadership has been instrumental in shaping SPNI into the powerhouse it is today. I am confident that Gaurav Banerjee, with his proven track record and visionary approach, will continue to drive SPNI's success."

"Gaurav's expertise in content creation and strategic leadership will undoubtedly lead SPN into an exciting new chapter of growth and achievement. We are thrilled to have him at the helm and look forward to the continued success of SPNI under his leadership," Ahuja said.