Senior media professional Hersh Bhandari is set to join the NDTV Group as Brand Advisor and Head of NDTV CoLab.

Bhandari confirmed his return through a LinkedIn post, describing the move as a ‘full circle’ moment in his career.

In his new role, Bhandari will advise the NDTV Group on brand strategy and lead NDTV CoLab, the network’s branded content and brand-solutions business. NDTV CoLab focuses on creating customised content, campaigns and brand-led initiatives for advertisers, institutions, marketers and creators.

Commenting on the appointment, Rahul Kanwal, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, NDTV, said, ‘As brands look for deeper and more meaningful audience engagement, NDTV CoLab will bring together the credibility of NDTV’s flagship news brands with innovative, content-led partnerships. Hersh combines deep commercial expertise with a proven ability to build businesses and create value for brands. He will drive the next phase of growth in NDTV CoLab opportunities.’

Rahul Shaw, Chief Business Officer, NDTV, said, ‘Having worked closely with Hersh in the past, I have seen his ability to build strong partnerships and create effective solutions for brands. He brings deep industry relationships, strategic thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset. I am delighted to welcome him to the team and look forward to working with him as we grow NDTV CoLab.’

Bhandari said that stepping back into the organisation where he took his early career steps made him realise how much he had grown through his experiences over the years. He said he was returning not as a professional who was just starting out, but as an experienced leader ready to lead, mentor and contribute at a higher level.

Bhandari’s return also marks his second stint with NDTV. He had earlier worked with NDTV Media during his career.He brings more than two decades of experience across media, revenue, business strategy, brand solutions and operations.

Before returning to NDTV, he held senior roles at Republic Media Network, where he joined ahead of the launch of Republic Bharat as Executive Vice President–Revenue. He was later promoted to Group Chief Operating Officer in February 2022.

Before Republic, Bhandari was National Revenue Head at India Today Television. He also spent around six years with Times Network and has worked with other media organisations, including Star Group and Mastiii.

NDTV launched CoLab in July 2026 as the new identity of its earlier branded content and brand-solutions division, NDTV Brand Studio. The vertical works with brands and other partners to develop campaigns, conversations and intellectual properties across different platforms.

Bhandari’s appointment comes as NDTV continues to expand its branded content and commercial offerings beyond traditional advertising. His experience in revenue, brand solutions and media strategy is expected to help NDTV build stronger brand partnerships and content-led business opportunities.