New Delhi: The Times Group has announced a senior-level transition in its news broadcasting arm with the departure of Varun Kohli, Chief Operating Officer, effective August 13, 2025. The company has handed interim charge of the vertical to Rohit Gopakumar, CEO – Entertainment and Digital Business, who will now oversee the news portfolio alongside his existing responsibilities.
Kohli’s exit comes after a 16-month stint at Times Network, during which he steered key operational and strategic initiatives. Drawing on more than 30 years in media leadership, he was credited with launching new ventures, reviving underperforming brands, and driving profitability while strengthening internal structures and fostering team alignment.
Before joining Times Network, Kohli held several high-profile leadership roles across the Indian media landscape. His career includes CEO positions at Bharat Express, ITV Network, and Deccan Chronicle Holdings; Group CEO of ITV Network India News & NewsX; and senior executive roles at DNA Newspapers, Mail Today, TV18 Broadcast, and Jagran Prakashan. He also worked with Mogae Media as Chief Monetisation Officer and began his career in advertising with Bennett Coleman & Company and Jagran Publications.
Industry peers describe Kohli as a decisive, hands-on leader who thrives on accountability, brand building, and full ownership of business outcomes. His track record spans print, television, and digital media, with a focus on revenue acceleration and audience engagement.
Following the leadership change, all TV news broadcasting functions—except finance, legal, and distribution—will report directly to Gopakumar. The finance and legal teams will continue to be led by Jagdish Mulchandani, who will additionally oversee distribution across both news and entertainment channels under Gopakumar’s overall supervision.
