Angad Bhatia has been appointed as the CEO of Firstpost and Creator18, a newly launched venture under the Network18 umbrella. With this appointment, Bhatia will not only oversee Firstpost—India’s premier international news platform—but also spearhead the development of a creator-driven ecosystem that extends across Network18’s digital properties.

According to a press release, bringing over 15 years of experience in media, content, technology, and digital commerce, Bhatia is well-regarded for his ability to build and scale digital businesses from the ground up. His expertise in navigating the dynamic B2C media landscape makes him a key figure in Network18’s future growth strategy.

Before joining Network18, Bhatia served as the CEO of India Lifestyle Network, where he played a pivotal role in expanding digital-first consumer brands. His journey also includes leading Brand & Marketing Growth for Mensa Brands, further solidifying his reputation as a strategic leader in digital commerce and media innovation.

One of Bhatia’s most notable achievements is the creation and successful scaling of MensXP, a digital-first men’s lifestyle platform that he founded and transformed into a market leader before its acquisition by Times Internet. His portfolio also includes the leadership of iDiva & Hypp, both of which became significant players in India’s digital content ecosystem.

Bhatia’s entrepreneurial acumen and sharp strategic insights have enabled him to identify growth opportunities and expand businesses beyond their traditional scope. His ability to align content, technology, and commerce has helped brands create deeper engagement with audiences—an approach that will be crucial in shaping Creator18 into a powerful creator-driven platform.

Under his leadership, Firstpost is expected to strengthen its position as India’s most credible global news platform, while Creator18 is set to introduce new-age content strategies designed to leverage the growing influence of digital creators. With a focus on off-platform engagement, the venture will explore ways to amplify Network18’s digital presence across multiple channels, tapping into newer audiences and expanding its reach.

Speaking about his new role, Angad Bhatia expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities ahead, stating, “Firstpost has been a trusted voice in international news, and I am excited to take its legacy forward. With Creator18, we aim to build a robust creator network that aligns with the future of digital content consumption. The media landscape is evolving rapidly, and we are here to shape it with innovation, authenticity, and strategic growth.”

Bhatia will report directly to Rahul Joshi, MD & Group Editor-in-Chief of Network18, ensuring that his vision for Firstpost and Creator18 aligns with the broader objectives of the media conglomerate.

With his track record of scaling digital-first brands, innovative thinking, and deep understanding of audience engagement, Angad Bhatia’s appointment signals a bold new direction for Network18 as it looks to redefine the future of digital media and creator-led content in India.