Rahul Johri resigns as EVP and GM of Discovery South Asia

Johri will continue as senior advisor till end of 2016.

Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific has announced that Rahul Johri, executive vice-president and general manager - South Asia, has resigned, effective February 24, 2016. Johri will continue to work with Discovery until the end of the year as a senior advisor to Arthur Bastings, president and managing director, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific.

Johri has had various leadership roles during his 15-year tenure at Discovery. An official statement says, "In the last eight years, Johri led the South Asia operations and created an unrivalled footprint for Discovery and one of the top performing markets for Discovery Networks International. Some of his achievements include tripling the channel portfolio to 11 distinct and high quality 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.'

Arthur Bastings, president and managing director, Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, says, "We are fortunate to have had a leader of Johri'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 Johri 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 have aggressive plans to sharpen and enhance Discovery's product palette to whet the ever-increasing appetite of this demographic."

Commenting on his resignation, Johri says, "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 Bastings' strong leadership will continue to fuel Discovery's growth in the region."

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.