On the 75th episode of Jam with Sam, Sampath Iyengar hosted Pradeep Dwivedi, the dynamic CEO of Sakal Media Group. A corporate leader with vast experience across industries, Pradeep shared his journey of resilience, learning, and leadership. From a childhood shaped by his father’s Air Force career to helming one of Maharashtra’s most influential media houses, his story is one of versatility and vision.
A Childhood of Diversity and Discovery
Pradeep’s early life was defined by constant movement, thanks to his father’s career in the Indian Air Force. From Coimbatore and Tezpur to Chandigarh and Jamnagar, he attended schools in cities across India. This multicultural upbringing helped him develop a deep appreciation for India’s diverse traditions and cultures.
“Growing up across the country gives you a unique perspective,” Pradeep shared. “It’s difficult to see polarization in the country after experiencing its unity firsthand.”
After completing his higher secondary education in Chandigarh, Pradeep pursued a BSc in Physics at DAV College and later an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Panjab University. He also completed a global management program at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, an opportunity facilitated by the Tata Group during his tenure with them.
Early Career: Building from the Ground Up
Pradeep began his career with Eicher Motors, where he gained firsthand experience in sales and marketing. The job was a wake-up call, exposing him to the realities of working in the field. “My first task was to sell trucks to union leaders in 42-degree Delhi summers,” he recalled with a smile.
This grounding in fieldwork became the bedrock of his professional ethos: humility, persistence, and the drive to deliver solutions.
He later transitioned into financial services, working with GE Capital, Standard Chartered, and American Express. From handling collections to managing risk and underwriting, these roles sharpened his skills in managing large portfolios and navigating dynamic markets.
The Telecom Boom and Lessons in Leadership
Pradeep entered the telecom industry at a pivotal time, joining Tata Teleservices during India’s telecom revolution. Over eight years, he held diverse roles, from operations and IT infrastructure to leading B2B sales.
During his tenure, he helped create innovative telecom solutions for SMBs and corporate clients, collaborating with global partners to bring cutting-edge technologies to India. His ability to adapt and lead in rapidly evolving industries became a hallmark of his career.
Transition to Media: Redefining the Game
Pradeep’s move to the media industry began with Dainik Bhaskar, where he led sales and marketing. As an outsider to the industry, he brought a fresh perspective, focusing on client solutions rather than traditional ad space sales.
Now, as the CEO of Sakal Media Group, he oversees one of Maharashtra’s most trusted media organizations. Sakal’s portfolio includes the leading Marathi newspaper Sakal, Agro One (Asia’s only daily agriculture paper), and community initiatives like Tanishka (a women’s empowerment network) and the Senior Youth Movement for Peace Learning and Enjoyment (SYMPLE).
“We’re not just a media company,” Pradeep explained. “We’re a platform for social impact, whether through skilling farmers, empowering women, or creating engaging content for senior citizens.”
Tackling Modern Challenges: Fake News and Digital Transformation
As the media landscape evolves, Sakal is embracing the digital age. Pradeep emphasized the importance of hiring young talent to drive innovation in content creation and delivery. “The youth understand today’s digital priorities far better than older generations,” he noted.
He also addressed the challenge of fake news, urging consumers to trust credible sources and verify information. “In an era of information overload, gut instinct and trusted outlets are key to discerning fact from fiction,” he said.
A Vision for the Future
For Pradeep, the future is about education and giving back. Inspired by his daughters’ creativity and ambition, he dreams of teaching young minds and shaping the next generation of leaders. “There’s no better way to define the future than by sharing your experience and letting others chart their own paths,” he shared.
About Pradeep Dwivedi:
Pradeep Dwivedi is the CEO of Sakal Media Group, a visionary leader with a career spanning automotive, finance, telecom, and media industries. Known for his adaptability and people-centric leadership, he is passionate about leveraging media for social impact. A family man, avid reader, and advocate for education, Pradeep believes in creating opportunities that empower others to thrive.