MUMBAI: Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd has announced the appointment of Ajit Andhare, as the Chief Operating Officer of its films business – Viacom18 Motion Pictures. Ajit replaces Vikram Malhotra, who put in his papers, some time back, to pursue his entrepreneurial interests. (SEE REPORT HERE)

Sudhanshu Vats, Group CEO said of this appointment, “In Ajit, we’ve found the right leader to drive Viacom18 Motion Pictures to the next level of growth & profitability. His passion for films coupled with his education and experience across varied fields like Engineering, Marketing and Creative production give him the edge to build a Business that would become a benchmark in the industry.”

Ajit will be responsible for the growth and profitability of Viacom18 Motion Pictures and will be reporting to Sudhanshu. He will also lead Viacom18 Motion Pictures’ distribution alliance with Paramount Pictures.

With an experience of over 17 years, Ajit has previously worked with Colosceum Media Pvt. ltd. since 2007, a venture that he founded, along with Capital18 and with Unilever Plc. in India and Asia Pacific region. He holds an MBA from the Indian School of Business & B Tech from REC Rourkela.

Speaking on his appointment, Ajit commented, “The fundamentals of Motion Pictures business in India are improving with growth in digital distribution, multiplex screens, emerging digital platforms and above all success of high content cinema. It’s a great opportunity to lead one of country’s premier studios recognized for its distinguished work in this exciting context.”