NODWIN Gaming, a global player in gaming, esports and youth entertainment, has appointed Sidharth Kedia as Chief Strategy and Investments Officer. In this role, Kedia will be responsible for strategy, fundraising, and mergers and acquisitions, as NODWIN continues to scale its global youth media portfolio and advance toward its next phase of growth.
According to the company, Kedia has returned to NODWIN at a defining moment for the company, having previously served as CEO from 2019 to 2023. During his tenure, NODWIN delivered a tenfold increase in revenue, raised over $50 million in capital, and significantly enhanced its market position, with valuation growing from approximately Rs 140 crore (approx $19.4 million at the time) post Nazara’s investment in 2018, to $350 million pre-money following the Sony Group Corporation-led round in 2023. He also played a key role in shaping NODWIN’s evolution from an esports-focused business into a broader youth media and entertainment company, laying the foundation for its current multi-vertical ecosystem.
Kedia brings over two decades of experience across media, investments, and strategy. He has held leadership roles across fintech, private equity, and media.
He was part of the early evolution of India’s payments ecosystem at Venture Infotek, built one of the country’s early analytics and data science practices at eFunds, and co-founded Ambit Pragma Ventures, a $150 million private equity fund focused on high-growth sectors, leading their Media and Entertainment practice.
He later played a key role within Reliance Industries, leading turnaround and restructuring initiatives across the Network18 portfolio and advising on media investments for Jio. As Head of Strategy at Viacom18, he worked across corporate strategy and M&A while driving data-led decision making and innovating traditional media models. His career reflects a consistent focus on identifying shifts in consumer behaviour and enabling businesses at the intersection of technology, content, and distribution.
As per the company, Kedia’s appointment comes on the back of NODWIN Gaming reinforcing its Board and leadership with the appointment of Arnd Benninghoff to its Board of Directors, reflecting the company’s continued focus on building institutional depth and preparedness for a potential IPO.
In his new role, Sidharth will focus on sharpening NODWIN’s long-term strategic direction, driving shareholder value, and identifying inorganic growth opportunities across key international markets. His mandate includes strengthening the company’s investment thesis as it builds a scalable, IP-led business across gaming, content, live experiences, and youth culture.
Sidharth Kedia, Chief Strategy and Investments Officer, NODWIN Gaming, said, “It feels great to be back at NODWIN at such an important point in its journey. Having seen the company grow over the years, it’s clear how strong the foundation is today and how much opportunity lies ahead. NODWIN is entering a phase where focused strategy, thoughtful capital allocation, and strong execution will unlock its true value potential. I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on this momentum and take NODWIN into its next stage of growth.”
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming, said: “Sidharth has played a pivotal role in shaping NODWIN’s journey, and his return back to the NODWIN Family comes at an important stage as we continue to scale the business globally and look at a potential listing. He combines a deep understanding of our ecosystem with strong expertise in capital strategy and corporate development. As we expand our IP portfolio, enter new markets, and advance our capital plans, his leadership will be instrumental in driving long-term value creation for the company.”
