Mumbai: As Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) makes its final moves towards the merger with Zee Entertainment Enterprises, there have been speculations galore about what’s taking place at the former. Seems like some of it has been put to rest. Danish Khan and Neeraj Vyas have been handed over a fresh set of responsibilities and designations.
Under the new structure, Danish Khan will serve as Business Head for Sony LIV and Studio NEXT, exclusively focusing on digital offerings. Meanwhile, Neeraj Vyas will oversee SPNI's Hindi language entertainment as Business Head for SET, SAB, PAL, and Hindi Movies.
SPNI has announced these strategic leadership changes to align with its vision for the future. The goal is to enhance focus on priorities and ensure success in the rapidly evolving M&E industry.
Khan and Vyas will report to SPNI MD & CEO NP Singh, and an effective transition plan is currently in progress. These leadership changes will take effect on 1 June.
Khan, has had two stints with SPNI, totaling almost eighteen years of experience. In his current term, he has been the business head for Channel SET for seven years and has spearheaded Studio NEXT and Sony LIV since 2019.
Khan has achieved remarkable success in the digital business over the last three years following the launch of Sony LIV 2.0. Under his leadership, the top line has grown by more than 300 per cent, and the monthly active users have increased fourfold, making it one of the most impressive turnaround stories in the industry. He aims to expand the digital business's footprint in domestic and international markets to ensure long-term sustainable growth for the network.
Vyas, a seasoned veteran of SPNI for over twenty-seven years. With this new responsibility, Vyas will lead SET's overall business strategy and collaborate with the team to fortify its brand and market presence.
Vyas has been instrumental in heading SAB, PAL, and Hindi Movies for the past six years, guiding the movie cluster to maintain a dominant position in the market while driving SAB's exceptional growth with over 200 per cent EBIT and close to 300 per cent topline growth. With his impeccable leadership, SAB has consistently remained among the top three channels in its genre and underwent a remarkable brand reorientation, making it one of the most successful brand transformations in recent times.
Singh said, “As we increase our focus on digital and prioritise our DTC (direct-to-consumer) services, I'm excited to share that Khan will lead Sony LIV's growth and oversee Studio NEXT's expansion. Moreover, Vyas will enhance the value proposition of SPNI's Hindi General Entertainment channels, including Sony Entertainment Television (SET), to drive growth and momentum in Hindi language entertainment. I wish them the best in their endeavours.
