Discovery integrates India and Asia biz

Discovery Networks International has announced the integration of its India and Asia businesses. Effective July 1, Rahul Johri (pictured), SVP, advertising Sales, Discovery Networks India, will assume management responsibility for India as SVP and country manager. Discovery Networks India will continue to be managed under Johri’s leadership. He will report to Tom Keaveny, EVP and managing director, Discovery Networks Asia. Deepak Shourie, EVP and managing director, Discovery Networks India, has also been assigned a new role as advisor, corporate affairs, Discovery Networks India.

Johri joined Discovery in 2001 from IMG. As head of advertising sales with additional responsibility for the region’s research and communications functions, Johri has played an integral role in consolidating Discovery’s portfolio in India over the past seven years. Shourie has managed Discovery Networks India since 2001. He oversaw the launch of the company’s first international lifestyle channel, Discovery Travel & Living, in India in 2004, and also revamped Discovery Channel’s programming and marketing strategies.

“The integration of our India and Asia operations will position Discovery more competitively in the region by allowing us to collaborate across both businesses and more effectively share content and resources in order to drive continued growthThe strength of our business in India is a tribute to Deepak’s leadership and significant contributions, and we remain committed to strong investment in the market,” said Greg Ricca, president and CEO, Discovery Networks International.

“This new structure is part of the continued evolution of Discovery’s operations in India.I believe the time is right to formally recognise our close relationship with Asia and transition to new leadership, and I look forward to continuing to serve the company in an advisory capacity. Rahul’s proven track record and in-depth knowledge of the business, combined with his passion for Discovery, will help drive continued success in India,” said Shourie.

“I am honoured to step into this new role and look forward to working with the entire team in India to move the business forward.We remain committed to strengthening our portfolio in the market in order to deepen our relationships with audiences, affiliates and advertisers alike and ensure Discovery’s networks remain as relevant and entertaining as possible,” said Johri.