Avinash Kaul, a titan of the Indian media industry, has stepped down from his role as CEO of Network18 (Broadcast) and Managing Director of A+E Networks | TV18. His departure, confirmed on January 6, 2026, marks the end of an influential association spanning nearly 12 years with the media conglomerate.

Kaul, who reported directly to Network18 Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief Rahul Joshi, was instrumental in transforming the network into a market leader. While the company has not yet named a successor, industry insiders suggest a realignment of teams is expected shortly.

Joining the group in May 2014, Kaul navigated various senior roles, including CEO of the IBN News Network and Chief Operating Officer. Under his stewardship, Network18 became India’s largest news network, reaching over 700 million viewers annually across 20 channels in 16 languages.

Kaul’s “turnaround” reputation was solidified by several key achievements:

• Market Leadership: He played a central role in News18 India becoming the No. 1 Hindi news channel and CNN-News18 securing the top spot in English news.
• Revenue Growth: In 2024, his mandate was expanded to drive direct revenue across TV, Digital, and Print, focusing on operational discipline.
• Strategic Expansion: He oversaw the growth of HistoryTV18 and helped align the broadcast business with the group’s digital ecosystems.

Before his tenure at Network18, Kaul served as the CEO of the Television Division at Bennett, Coleman and Co. Ltd. (Times Group), where he led Times Now, ET Now, and Zoom. His diverse career also includes senior leadership stints at:

• NDTV Media: Executive Vice President (2002–2010).
• Sahara One: CEO (2010).
• Global Networks: Early career roles at Star India, Discovery Communications, and WPP.

Kaul is also a respected figure in industry bodies, having served on the Technical Committee of BARC India and the board of the Media Research Users Council (MRUC). While his next move is currently unknown, he is rumored to have been approached by major global media and tech enterprises for board-level and operational roles.

Key Highlights:

• Major Leadership Exit: Avinash Kaul has resigned as CEO of Network18 (Broadcast) after nearly 12 years of leadership.
• Strategic Impact: He led Network18 to become India’s #1 news network, overseeing 20 channels and reaching 700 million viewers.
• Vast Experience: His 27-year career includes top roles at Times Network, NDTV, and Star India.
• Future Outlook: While no successor is named, Kaul is expected to transition into a new high-profile role in the tech or media sector.