MUMBAI: In a move that reflects MTV Networks International (MTVNI) expanded portfolio of businesses in Europe, Bhavneet Singh has been promoted to deputy general manager of the fast expanding emerging markets group.

In this role, Singh will manage almost 21 channels by the end of 2006, informs an official release.

Singh will be responsible for all aspects of the business across the music channel MTV and the kids' channel Nickelodeon and Comedy brands in central eastern Europe and Middle East with a specific focus on development and establishing brands across the emerging markets as well as new platforms, such as broadband (overdrive), mobile and the youth community website Neopets.

Prior to his appointment, Singh previously served as international sales strategy director, for the corporate strategy group with in MTVNI working across all international markets.

The new role will be based in London and he will report to MTV Networks International GM and VP emerging markets group Dean Possenniskie.

Possenniskie commented; “Having, grown the EM business at a rapid rate, my energy, drive and focus continues with exciting plans for the emerging markets Group, with Bhavneet on board the further channel expansion in Eastern Europe, Middle East and Central Asia will be supported by him and his team. I’m confident that with his diverse business, commercial and strategy experience Bhavneet will be a huge success within emerging Markets”.

MTV Networks Europe COO Simon Guild adds; “Bhavneet is a very talented individual and I am delighted to see him appointed to this important position where he will be able to drive growth in one of our fastest expanding businesses”

Singh (32), whose promotion is effective immediately, has been with MTV Networks since 2004, has earlier worked for Manchester United PLC and has commercial experience working as director sales at IMG TWI in India, apart from being head of ad-sales at Discovery Channel in Asia. Bhavneet also holds an MBA from Manchester Business School.