Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) has announced a leadership realignment as part of a refreshed operating model aimed at accelerating its transition into a content-first, platform-agnostic and multi-lingual entertainment company. The move is designed to strengthen end-to-end ownership across content and drive closer collaboration between its television networks and digital platform, Sony LIV.

In an SPNI press release issued from Mumbai on January 16, 2026, the company said the new structure is intended to enable a more unified approach to monetisation and distribution across its linear and digital businesses, while delivering a seamless viewing experience for consumers across platforms.

Commenting on the development, Gaurav Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India, said the company had reviewed its operating model and organisational structure to ensure they support its next phase of growth. He noted that SPNI is redefining its content strategy from a largely linear-first approach to one that gives equal weight to linear and digital, with a sharper focus on ownership, agility and execution. According to Banerjee, deeper collaboration across teams will also strengthen the company’s customer-centric approach across brands and content.

Under the updated operating model, SPNI will empower its content clusters with end-to-end responsibility spanning content strategy, programming, marketing and on-air promotions for both television and digital platforms. Nachiket Pantvaidya will lead Sony Entertainment Television, Sony Marathi and the movie production business, while Ajay Bhalwankar will head Sony SAB, the movies cluster, free-to-air and infotainment channels. Rajaraman Sundaram will spearhead the company’s regional expansion in the southern markets, and Ambesh Tiwari will lead Sony AATH along with the kids’ business.

 

SPNI said it will appoint a new head for its digital business once the succession plan is finalised. Until then, Banerjee will provide direct oversight of the digital vertical.

To support a unified monetisation strategy across platforms, the company is consolidating key revenue streams covering advertising sales, distribution, sports and international business. This integrated revenue engine will be led by Rajesh Kaul as Chief Revenue Officer. As part of this structure, Akshay Agrawal has been elevated as Head – Linear Ad Sales, while Makarand Palekar has been elevated as Head – Linear Distribution. Ranjana Mangla, who currently heads digital ad sales, will also oversee the company’s YouTube growth strategy, and Manish Aggarwal will lead Sony LIV’s B2B and syndication business. All four executives will report to Kaul in the new model.

In support functions, Gaurav Laghate will take charge of external relations as Head – Corporate Brand, PR and Corporate Communications. Administration and facilities will now be aligned with the human resources function, which is headed by Manu Wadhwa, Chief Human Resources Officer.

SPNI said the leadership realignment is a strategic step towards building a more integrated organisation that can respond faster to evolving audience behaviour and unlock growth opportunities across both traditional and digital platforms.