NETWORK18 Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

NETWORK18 has 5 executives leading key functions including news production, content creation, revenue generation, and financial management.

Driven by a commitment to journalistic excellence, NETWORK18 delivers comprehensive media coverage and entertainment across television, digital, and mobile platforms to audiences throughout India and global markets.

Leadership Roles at NETWORK18

  • Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio - S. Shivakumar
  • Chief Executive Officer & Producer - Rajen Garabadu
  • Chief Executive Officer & Producer - Ashwin Kumar
  • Group Chief Financial Officer - Hariharan Mahadevan
  • Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages - Sidharth Newatia
  • S. Shivakumar - Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio

    S. Shivakumar, the Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio at NETWORK18, directs all news production operations and editorial workflows. Overseeing the daily output of high-impact television content, the Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio ensures alignment with the broader media objectives of the organization. This leadership role involves managing complex broadcast schedules and coordinating with digital content teams to maintain audience engagement across multiple platforms. By optimizing production efficiency, S. Shivakumar directly impacts the quality and reach of news programming. Shivakumar maintains rigorous standards for journalistic integrity while scaling operations to meet the demands of a competitive media landscape. Through strategic oversight of studio resources, the Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio supports the expansion of the company's footprint in the Indian news sector, ensuring consistent delivery of timely information to millions of viewers.

    Rajen Garabadu - Chief Executive Officer & Producer

    Rajen Garabadu, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer at NETWORK18, manages the creative development and production of filmed entertainment and television shows. Focusing on the conceptualization of high-quality content, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer drives the artistic vision for various media projects. This role requires close collaboration with internal production units to ensure that every film and show meets the high standards expected by the audience. By overseeing the end-to-end production lifecycle, Rajen Garabadu ensures that creative assets align with the company's commercial goals. Garabadu maintains a sharp focus on market trends to identify new opportunities for content distribution across digital and traditional channels. Through effective resource allocation and talent management, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer secures the successful delivery of diverse entertainment offerings, strengthening the position of the company within the competitive Indian media and entertainment industry.

    Ashwin Kumar - Chief Executive Officer & Producer

    Ashwin Kumar, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer at NETWORK18, architects the strategic growth of the company's digital content websites and on-demand video platforms. Focusing on the technical and operational aspects of digital distribution, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer ensures that platforms like VOOT maintain high performance and user engagement. This leadership role involves managing the integration of digital content with mobile distribution strategies to maximize reach across diverse demographics. By analyzing user data and market behavior, Ashwin Kumar optimizes the digital experience to drive subscription growth and advertising revenue. Kumar coordinates with cross-functional teams to implement innovative features that keep the company at the forefront of the digital media revolution. Through the continuous improvement of digital infrastructure, the Chief Executive Officer & Producer supports the long-term sustainability of the company's online presence and enhances the overall value proposition for digital consumers.

    Hariharan Mahadevan - Group Chief Financial Officer

    Hariharan Mahadevan, the Group Chief Financial Officer at NETWORK18, manages the financial health and fiscal strategy of the entire media conglomerate. Overseeing capital allocation, budgeting, and financial reporting, the Group Chief Financial Officer ensures that all business units operate within established fiscal parameters. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board and other C-suite executives to support long-term investment decisions and growth initiatives. By maintaining rigorous financial controls, Hariharan Mahadevan secures the stability of the company's diverse operations, including television, digital, and filmed entertainment. Mahadevan directs the financial planning processes that enable the company to navigate the complexities of the media industry. Through the oversight of corporate finance and risk management, the Group Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary foundation for sustainable expansion. This strategic financial leadership ensures that the company remains well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market opportunities while delivering consistent value to stakeholders.

    Sidharth Newatia - Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages

    Sidharth Newatia, the Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages at NETWORK18, directs all sales initiatives and revenue streams across regional language media assets. Overseeing the monetization of television and digital platforms, the Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages ensures that advertising partnerships align with the company's growth targets. This leadership role involves developing tailored sales strategies for diverse regional markets, effectively capturing market share in key geographic areas. By fostering strong relationships with major advertisers and agencies, Sidharth Newatia drives consistent financial performance. Newatia manages the sales teams responsible for promoting the company's extensive portfolio of news and entertainment content. Through the implementation of data-driven pricing models and innovative ad-tech solutions, the Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages optimizes revenue generation. This strategic focus on regional expansion supports the overall financial health of the company while strengthening its competitive advantage in the Indian media landscape.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NETWORK18 Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NETWORK18?
    NETWORK18 is led by S. Shivakumar (Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio), along with executives such as Rajen Garabadu (Chief Executive Officer & Producer) and Ashwin Kumar (Chief Executive Officer & Producer).
    Who is part of NETWORK18’s executive team?
    The executive team of NETWORK18 includes leaders such as S. Shivakumar (Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio), Rajen Garabadu (Chief Executive Officer & Producer), Ashwin Kumar (Chief Executive Officer & Producer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NETWORK18 have?
    NETWORK18 has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NETWORK18’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NETWORK18 includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer - News18 Studio, Chief Executive Officer & Producer, Chief Executive Officer & Producer, Group Chief Financial Officer, Chief Revenue Officer, Indian Languages.