Erosion in viewership and pressure to generate revenue is taking a toll on Multi Screen Media, the company that operates television channels like Sony TV, Set MAX and Sony Pics. Its business head, Albert Almeida, resigned on Thursday.
On February 18, CEO Kunal Das Gupta had put in his papers. Company sources say around a dozen senior executives also resigned with Almeida on Thursday.
Based on viewership ratings, Sony TV is currently a distant fourth in the rankings of entertainment channels, behind Star Plus, Colors, and Zee TV.
When spoken to, Almeida confirmed the development. "I am taking up another offer, which I cannot disclose at this point in time. I will continue to be with the company for another week," he said. Senior MSM executives said they did not wish to comment. Almeida has been the business head of MSM since 2005.
Of late, he has been under considerable pressure as the channel, once among the top two, has been on a downward curve.