New Chairman for BARC India

Indian ad currency body BARC has a new Chairman, Gaurav Banerjee, who is MD and CEO of Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) - replacing Shashi Sinha, Executive Chairman of IPG Mediabrands India, who had held the role for around three years.

BARC India (Broadcast Audience Research Council) was established in 2015 as a not-for-profit Joint Industry Body (JIB) providing impartial audience estimates to broadcasters, advertisers and ad agencies. Its methodology includes use of big data as well as a panel of around 257,000 individuals in more than 58,000 households, in more than 5400 towns and villages across India - described as 'adequately representative' of the country's viewing.

Banerjee (pictured) was confirmed at a Board meeting on Friday and starts immediately. He brings more than two decades of experience in the media and entertainment industry and is also the VP of the Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF); ad a Board Director of private limited companies MSM-Worldwide Factual Media and Bangla Entertainment.

Banerjee thanked the outgoing Sinha 'for his exceptional leadership and steady guidance over the last three years', while Sinha stated: 'I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at BARC for their unwavering support and collaboration. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to our new Chairman, Gaurav Banerjee. I am confident that with his unique leadership style, BARC will continue to grow and innovate to meet the evolving needs of our industry.'

CEO Nakul Chopra welcomed the new Chairman and added 'We would also like to express our deep respect and thanks to Shashi Sinha for his stewardship and commitment to BARC. His tenure has been instrumental in enhancing data granularity while reinforcing BARC's dedication and commitment to the industry.'

Web site: www.barcindia.co.in .