MUMBAI: After a stint spanning 15 years, Discovery Networks Asia? Pacific executive vice president (EVP) and general manager (GM) South Asia Rahul Johri has stepped down from his post with effect from 24 February, 2016.

However, Johri will continue to work with Discovery till the end of the year as senior advisor to Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific president and managing director Arthur Bastings.

In the meanwhile, Discovery has commenced the search for Johri's replacement. In the interim period, Bastings will additionally manage the South Asia business and day-to-day affairs from India.

In his 15-year stint with Discovery, Johri was in charge of the South Asia region for eight years. 

Bastings said, "We are fortunate and grateful to have had a leader of Rahul's calibre and vision. At the helm, he created an unmatched portfolio that is immensely valued by viewers and trade partners. As we pick up where Rahul left off, India remains one of our most important growth markets. Coupled with its digital transformation and a massive population of millennials hungry for content, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and have aggressive plans to sharpen and enhance Discovery's product palette to whet the ever-increasing appetite of this demographic."

Johri added, "I have had the good fortune to work in one of the finest media companies in the world. After 15 years with Discovery, I believe it is time for me to explore new opportunities. I am confident that the current management team under Arthur's strong leadership will continue to fuel Discovery's growth in the region."

Some of his achievements during his tenure include tripling the channel portfolio to 11 distinct brands, strengthening Discovery’s factual entertainment programming while developing new genres like lifestyle and kids content, launching a new Hindi entertainment channel and creating a premium viewing experience through its three high-definition channels.