Amitabh Srivastava: A journey defined by reinvention, relevance and reach

On his birthday, it is an apt moment to reflect on the professional journey of Amitabh Srivastava, a seasoned media professional whose career has spanned more than three decades and multiple industry shifts. With over 35 years of experience across hospitality, broadcasting, strategic marketing and media management, Srivastava has consistently demonstrated an ability to evolve with the times while remaining grounded in fundamentals.

He began his career with the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi, where his early exposure to service excellence, operational discipline and customer-centric thinking shaped the leadership approach he would later bring into media and consulting. From hospitality, he transitioned into broadcasting and went on to hold senior leadership roles at some of the industry’s most influential organisations, including Times TV, MTV Asia, BBC Worldwide, TV Today and Walt Disney.

Among his most notable contributions was his role in building the AajTak brand in its formative years, helping position it as one of India’s most influential news broadcasters. Over the years, his understanding of audience behaviour, brand strategy and distribution ecosystems has enabled networks to strengthen their presence across India and South Asia during a period of significant industry transformation.

Srivastava also demonstrated foresight in embracing emerging formats. His five-year tenure with Radio Netherlands Worldwide marked a significant phase in his journey, strengthening his engagement with new media strategy and regional outreach while expanding his global perspective.

Today, as the head of I Media International, he advises organisations on branding, marketing and channel distribution while mentoring professionals across sectors. His work extends beyond consulting into education and capacity building, with regular learning and development engagements at premier institutions including IITs, IIMs, Jamia Millia Islamia and Delhi University.

His contributions have been widely recognised with honours such as the Indian Media Award, Rajiv Gandhi Excellence Award, BCS Ratna Award. He has also served as a jury member across leading global platforms including ENBA and the International AIB Awards, reflecting the industry’s continued trust in his perspective and experience.

As he marks another milestone year, Amitabh Srivastava’s journey stands as a testament to sustained relevance, adaptability and quiet leadership across hospitality, media and beyond.