Chief - Content (Earlier National Head / Senior Vice President / Vice President)
As a member of the founding team, I spearheaded content acquisition for UFO digital cinema network, successfully marketing the technology & business model to the Indian film industry in the days of analogue; handled complete operations including procurement, legal contractual obligations, technical processing, satellite delivery to theatres, and library / MIS management.Overcame the negative history & introductory hiccups of digital cinema’s entry; addressing the resistance of powerfully entrenched traditional film labs, as well producers’ skepticism of digital capabilities, quality & security. Succeeded in year 1 itself, in convincing the industry to embrace digitization, and avail its benefits. Developed and led the Content & Corporate Communications teams. Initiated & generated Multiple Revenue Options & enhancements; streamlined & reduced numerous logistics / company costs & liabilities. Drove content buying & revenue sharing models with content owners, for ancillary projects (Club X : 1st day 1st show @ HNI homes; Cinema Club: public screenings in clubs / corporates / institutions; Caravan Talkies: equipped vans touring media dark Indian markets), at lowest ever market prices leading to substantial cost savings in the acquisition budget.Strategically created multiple opportunities of strong and powerful brand visibility in films, on television & other media, as well as actor endorsements, through various airtime barter deals. Contributed to airtime sales through monetization of trailers. Forged excellent networking relationships, and a credible reputation, within the Indian film fraternity. Essayed a key role in successfully positioning UFO’s role as a service provider, eliminating many high risk legal liabilities relating to the IPR-Piracy domain, in the contractual obligations with the film industry.
