Startup Originals Team
Sajith Sivanandan, a renowned digital leader with experience across Jio, Google, and Disney+ Hotstar, has been appointed as the new CEO of Tata Digital, effective September 1, 2025. This strategic appointment comes as Tata Digital aims to revitalise its leadership and accelerate its vision in India’s competitive digital marketplace.
Leadership Transition Amid Strategic Overhaul:
Tata Digital’s decision to bring in Sivanandan follows a period of significant leadership changes. The company’s former CEO, Naveen Tahilyani, exited in May 2025 after just 15 months, and founding CEO Pratik Pal stepped down in February 2024. During the interim, a management council led by top executives was guiding Tata Digital, reporting to Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran.
Sajith Sivanandan’s Diverse Experience:
Sivanandan brings nearly three decades of expertise across technology, payments, media, and consulting. Most recently, he was President of Jio Mobile Digital Services. He also served as CEO of Disney+ Hotstar, leading the streaming platform’s growth and strategy in India. Prior to that, he spent more than 15 years at Google, where he spearheaded Google Pay and the Next Billion Users initiatives in India and the Asia-Pacific region. His career foundation includes leadership positions at Star TV and The Gallup Organization.
Mandate at Tata Digital:
As CEO, Sivanandan is expected to sharpen Tata Digital’s play across e-commerce, quick commerce, and digital services. Tata Digital faces stiff competition from the likes of Amazon, Flipkart, Reliance, Blinkit, and Zepto. Sivanandan’s experience in scaling large consumer-facing businesses and leading cross-functional teams positions him as a strong fit for Tata Digital’s aspirations.
Tata Digital’s New Phase:
The appointment coincides with Tata Digital’s upcoming move to a new headquarters in Mumbai’s Lower Parel. The company aims to steady its operations, restore confidence among employees and investors, and pursue sustained growth in the digital ecosystem.
Industry Response:
Industry observers see Sivanandan’s appointment as Tata Digital’s commitment to strengthen its leadership and aggressively pursue its digital ambitions. His blend of global know-how and local execution is expected to provide much-needed stability and direction for Tata Digital’s next phase of growth.
Sajith Sivanandan’s arrival marks a pivotal moment for Tata Digital, setting the stage for innovative leadership as the company navigates opportunities and challenges in India’s thriving digital economy.
