'Viacom18 Digital Ventures’ launched

Viacom18 has announced its new digital business, Viacom18 Digital Ventures (VDV), through which it aims to 'bridge traditional broadcasting and digital innovation'.

 

The decision follows the organisation’s strategy to develop a convergent digital media platform for evolved consumers and marketers, informed an agency statement.

 

Gaurav Gandhi, COO, IndiaCast Media Distribution (a TV18 and Viacom18 venture), has been appointed COO of VDV. His new role is effective 1 August 2015.

 

Sudhanshu Vats, Group CEO, Viacom18, said, “Broadcast industry is growing rapidly, and digital content, delivery and access are the new green shoots. We are looking to leverage the interception between a highly digital audience and the current content offerings. Gaurav’s rich experience in media, keen understanding of digital, strong base in distribution and his entrepreneurial instinct have made him our obvious choice."

 

Gandhi said, “I am very excited about this opportunity of building out a consumer-facing digital business for Viacom18. With the ever-changing media landscape, fast-growing high-speed internet access and explosive growth in video consumption across screens, there could not be a better time to move forward in this space. We at Viacom18 want to be the forefront of this digital convergence with our products and content offerings.”

 

Gandhi joined Viacom18 as chief commercial officer and head of international business in March 2010.

 

He has worked with NDTV Imagine, Star Group, Turner International India and Madison Communications in past assignment.