YAAP Digital has named media industry veteran Raj Nayak as its new Chairman & Managing Director, marking a significant leadership transition following the passing of the company’s Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, Dr. Atul Hegde, on July 7, 2026. The appointment was unanimously approved by the company’s Board of Directors as YAAP looks to ensure continuity in its leadership and strategic direction while building on the foundation established by its late founder.
According to the company, Dr. Hegde played a pivotal role in shaping YAAP into a technology-led, digital-first marketing organisation focused on innovation, entrepreneurship and delivering value to clients. While acknowledging the loss of its founder, YAAP stated that the leadership team, organisational culture and long-term strategic roadmap created under Hegde’s guidance provide a strong platform for the company’s future growth.
Raj Nayak brings over three decades of experience across India’s media and communications industry. He has previously held leadership positions at Star TV, NDTV and Viacom18, where he served as Chief Operating Officer. Over the past two years, Nayak has also been a member of YAAP Digital’s Advisory Board, contributing to the company’s strategic initiatives. His association with Dr. Hegde spanned more than 25 years, giving him an in-depth understanding of the company’s vision and evolution.
Commenting on his appointment, Raj Nayak said, “I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me by the Board. Atul was not only a visionary entrepreneur but also a dear friend for over 25 years. His passion, integrity and relentless pursuit of excellence built YAAP into the remarkable company it is today. My commitment is to preserve and build upon his legacy, working alongside the exceptional leadership team to ensure continuity, inspire innovation and create enduring value for all our stakeholders.”
The Board said the decision reflects both Nayak’s professional credentials and his familiarity with YAAP’s journey. It expressed confidence that his leadership would help the company maintain the values established by Dr. Hegde while steering the organisation through its next phase of expansion. The company added that the existing management team will continue to support the execution of its strategic priorities under the new leadership.
Before assuming the new role, Nayak had been closely associated with YAAP through its Advisory Board and had also collaborated with the company on strategic initiatives in the media and content space. His experience spans television broadcasting, content creation, entertainment, brand strategy and digital media, making him one of the industry’s most experienced business leaders.
With the leadership transition now in place, YAAP Digital said it will continue pursuing its long-term growth strategy while remaining committed to the vision established by its founder. The company aims to strengthen its position as a technology-driven digital marketing organisation by leveraging its existing leadership team, innovation-led approach and client-focused business model under Raj Nayak’s stewardship.
