Facebook is looking at media, FMCG honchos as India MD
Facebook is looking for a new India head, and its hunting ground is at high-profile media and FMCG companies. Top honchos are in the race, reports ET, including Star India MD Sanjay Gupta, Hotstar CEO Ajit Mohan, Viacom18 CEO Sudhanshu Vats, and Hindustan Unilever Executive Director-Refreshments Sudhir Sitapati. Experts say this signals a major upcoming overhaul in the giant's India operations.
What does the profile involve?
The prime role of the MD will be to oversee Facebook's India operations, including understanding and influencing product direction and specific product decisions, representing Facebook's product strategy in the country and drive alignment with partners and stakeholders, and lead partnership efforts in the market. ET reports remuneration could go up to $2mn (Rs. 13.6cr), which will set a benchmark for media companies in India.
Facebook business VP to visit India to choose finalist
Facebook has roped in top headhunting firm Spencer Stuart for hiring not only the MD, but other senior roles too. Sources told ET that David Fischer, Facebook's VP of business, will visit India before May ends and meet the shortlisted candidates for the MD position. "The final decision will be following a review by him and a peer evaluation," they said.
These names are in the fray
Apart from the aforementioned, Sandeep Bhushan, interim Facebook India MD, and Tata Sky MD Harit Nagpal are also reportedly in the fray. However, Sudhanshu Vats and Nagpal have denied the "rumors." But sources said at least some of them have advanced through several rounds.
What does it tell us about Facebook's India plans?
These names are a clear sign that Facebook is now looking at video as a major growth driver; last year, it bid a massive Rs. 3,900cr for IPL's digital rights. It will also bring a change in its India operations, as the "Indian team was never given a free hand despite India being the largest market in terms of users," an industry observer said.
Facebook-owned WhatsApp also looking for an India head
Incidentally, WhatsApp, the messaging platform owned by Facebook, is also currently looking for an India head. It is the brand's first full-time hire in India, for a position that has been vacant since long. To apply, head to Facebook Careers (www.facebook.com/careers).
