Kiran Mani Joins Board of IIT Madras Department of Management Studies Bringing Media-Tech Expertise
On March 13, 2026, Kiran Mani, the CEO of Jiostar, was appointed to the Board of the Department of Management Studies (DoMS) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. This appointment is expected to infuse the premier B-school with significant media-technology leadership and strategic advisory capabilities.
Significance of the Appointment
Mani’s extensive experience in scaling digital platforms, content ecosystems, and consumer technology strategies across the telecommunications and entertainment sectors positions him uniquely to guide the DoMS. His insights will be particularly valuable as the department embarks on launching new academic programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Management and Data Science, as well as a dual degree Tech MBA.
About the Department of Management Studies
The Department of Management Studies at IIT Madras is recognized as the top management school in India, according to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025. The department is known for its commitment to innovation and excellence in management education.
New Initiatives
Under Mani’s guidance, the DoMS aims to enhance its curriculum and foster industry collaborations. Notable initiatives include:
- Launch of the BS Management & Data Science program
- Introduction of Tech MBA dual degrees
- Establishment of research centers such as the Centre for Research on Start-ups (CREST) and the Rekhi Happiness Lab
Mani’s Professional Background
Kiran Mani brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He has previously worked as a Senior Business Analyst at Goldman Sachs, where he honed his skills in financial analysis and strategic planning. His academic credentials include an MBA from PSG Institute of Management, where he achieved an impressive CGPA of 9.6, and a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering from SRM University, where he secured a remarkable 96%.
Leadership in Digital Transformation
As the CEO of Jiostar, a company resulting from the merger of JioStar, Mani oversees a platform that boasts over 500 million subscribers, significantly contributing to India’s dominance in the Over-The-Top (OTT) media sector. His leadership is pivotal in driving the company’s strategies that align with the evolving digital landscape.
Impact on India’s Digital Economy
Mani’s role at DoMS is particularly timely as India aims to achieve a $1 trillion digital economy. His expertise is expected to guide research and curriculum development in key areas such as:
- Operations Management
- Quantitative Finance
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
These fields are crucial for preparing students to meet the demands of a rapidly changing economic environment.
Recent Achievements of DoMS
The Department of Management Studies has recently received several accolades, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence:
- Prof. Arshinder Kaur received the Rajan Varadarajan Research Award 2025.
- Prof. G. Srinivasan was recognized for Teaching Excellence.
Additionally, centers such as the CAMS Fintech Lab and DEEP Pricing Lab are driving applied research, further enhancing the department’s reputation as a leader in management education.
Vision for the Future
With Kiran Mani on board, the Department of Management Studies aims to accelerate its vision of producing leaders for a developed India by 2047. This vision encompasses interdisciplinary programs that integrate engineering, management, and data science, preparing students for the complexities of the modern business environment.
Conclusion
Kiran Mani’s appointment to the Board of the Department of Management Studies at IIT Madras marks a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward enhancing its academic offerings and industry relevance. His extensive background in media technology and digital transformation will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the future leaders of India’s economy.
Note: This article is based on information available as of March 2026 and aims to provide insights into the recent developments at IIT Madras and the impact of Kiran Mani’s appointment.
