Disney Star's Gaurav Banerjee is taking over as MD and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India.

He will be taking over by 26 August 2024, pending regulatory approvals. He will succeed NP Singh, who is transitioning to the role of non-executive chairperson to support Banerjee's transition till the end of the financial year.

Banerjee said, "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."

Singh said, "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."

Ravi Ahuja, chairperson, Global Television Studios, president and COO, Sony Pictures Entertainment, added, "NP 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 SPNI 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."

Last week, NP Singh, CEO and MD, Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), informed the company that it should start its hunt for a successor. Singh joined the company in 1999. According to a Reuters report, Banerjee will be joining the company in 'about two months'.

Banerjee joined Disney Star two decades ago from Aaj Tak. At Disney Star, he was most recently overseeing Hindi entertainment and Disney+ Hotstar, and served as business head for Star Bharat, as well as Hindi and English movies, kids and infotainment, and regional channels - East India. 

Story updated on 24 June with official comments from SPNI.