Varun Kohli returns as Director and Group CEO at Bharat Express

Bharat Express has named Varun Kohli as its Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, bringing back an executive with long experience in Indian television news at a time of transition for the channel.

Kohli’s return marks his second spell at the network. He first joined Bharat Express in early 2023 after senior leadership roles at Times Network, where he was Chief Operating Officer for news broadcasting, and at iTV Network, where he served as Group CEO. His career in media spans close to three decades and covers both editorial and operational oversight.

The appointment reflects Bharat Express’s effort to stabilise its leadership ranks and define a clearer growth path in a competitive broadcast environment. The news channel, like many of its peers, faces pressures ranging from shifting audience habits to tightening advertising budgets, underscoring the need for consistent management.

Kohli has previously spoken about the importance of turnaround strategies and team-building in news organisations, highlighting a hands-on approach and emphasis on accountability. In his professional profile, he points to strong client-agency relationships and a focus on execution — qualities that colleagues expect him to draw upon as he reassumes responsibility for the group.

For employees, his return is likely to provide a measure of continuity after a period of flux. Staff across content, technology and sales will be looking for clarity of direction and greater cohesion under his leadership. Whether he can translate his experience into sustained growth for Bharat Express will depend on how effectively he can align these functions and adapt to changing market dynamics.

The broadcaster has not disclosed details of its immediate strategic priorities, but Kohli’s track record suggests he will be tasked with both consolidating operations and preparing the channel to compete more effectively in India’s crowded news market. His appointment also signals the company’s decision to rely on tested leadership as it seeks to position itself for its next phase.

Kohli’s challenge now is to steer Bharat Express through a media landscape marked by rapid digital disruption and heightened competition, while providing stability and a sense of direction for the organisation he once helped to shape.