India’s Network 18 group has appointed AP Parigi, who built the Radio Mirchi brand for the Times Group, as its group CEO, reports Firstpost.

Owned and operated by Reliance Industries since May 2014, Network 18 has interests in television, print, internet, film, mobile content and allied businesses.

Parigi, who has over 40 years’ professional experience across various sectors, will take on his responsibilities from January 29.

It was during his stint as Managing Director of Entertainment Network (India) Limited owned Radio Mirchi that the brand emerged as India’s largest private FM radio network.

He also oversaw Times Group’s Internet businesses and has worked as Managing Director & Group CEO of Eros Media International and as the CEO of BPL Mobile Communications.

Parigi is on the Business Advisory Council of Said Business School, University of Oxford and recipient of several awards.

In a letter to his team, Adil Zainulbhai, Chairman, Network 18 said: “Parigi has built a raft of customer-facing brands, technologies, businesses and management teams. His wisdom and leadership is sure to take N18 to the next level.”

In a statement, Parigi said: “N18 is fortunate to have the world’s leading media brands as partners and I am keen to enhance each of these valuable relationships.”