MUMBAI: MTV Networks India is stepping up its digital agenda. The first step has come in the form of Srinivas Gopal's appointment as director digital (online, interactive and mobile).
In an interview with Indiantelevision.com last year, former MTV Networks Asia Pacific president Frank Brown had emphasised that the next phase of the company's development will be to launch digital new media business.
"We have identified two new revenue streams, each to have a business head. Digital new media and consumer products are going to evolve as businesses with potential for fast growth. The boom in digital new media has happened in Japan and Korea. And it is happening in China. Along with consumer products, this will be a brand extension for MTV and Nick in India as well," he had said.
Gopal's key responsibility will be to position MTV, Nick and Vh1 as leaders in the emerging digital market space in India.
He moves to MTV from Times Internet Ltd, where he was the western region head (indiatimes mobile division), responsible for managing the mobile operator alliance and driving wireless marketing initiatives for brands.
MTV Networks India vice president marketing and digital Vikram Raizada said, "As the premier youth destination, MTV has been a pioneer in interactive initiatives and given Srinivas' credentials in this field, I am sure there are many more exciting concepts waiting to take shape. Srinivas will play a key role in integrating the three aspects of digital - mobile, interactivity and online and provide a clear strategic and creative direction for the brands in this domain."
Gopal brings with him over 11 years of experience, starting his career with Paper Products Ltd providing packaging solutions, thereafter moving to Sify, BPL Mobile and finally to Times Internet Ltd, where he spent the last two years.
Speaking of his appointment, Gopal said, "I am looking forward to the excitement and challenges of driving the digital initiatives at MTV, a brand that is known for its unique humour and creative edge."