Leadership Update: Open Network for Digital Commerce Names Vibhor Jain MD & CEO

Open Network for Digital Commerce enters its next growth phase with Vibhor Jain as MD and CEO and an expanded leadership team.

Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has appointed Vibhor Jain as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 7, following his tenure in the role on an interim basis. Jain, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer, assumed acting leadership after the departure of former CEO Thampy Koshy in April last year.

Leadership Transition at ONDC

The appointment formalises Jain’s leadership at ONDC after nearly a year in an interim capacity. As MD and CEO, he will oversee the organisation’s strategic direction, operational execution, and expansion of its open digital commerce ecosystem. His elevation comes at a time when the network is continuing to scale its infrastructure and broaden participation across sectors.

Jain’s transition from Chief Operating Officer to the top role reflects continuity in leadership, with his prior responsibilities including overseeing network operations, partnerships, and execution strategies. His experience within the organisation positions him to lead ongoing initiatives focused on strengthening the network’s capabilities.

Strategic Focus on Open Digital Infrastructure

Outlining the organisation’s direction, Jain indicated that ONDC will focus on expanding use cases enabled by open and interoperable digital infrastructure. The emphasis will be on segments that are not traditionally served by single-platform models, aiming to create broader access and participation across the digital commerce ecosystem.

The network’s strategy includes delivering value to a diverse set of stakeholders, including farmers, artisans, small retailers, and gig workers. This approach aligns with ONDC’s objective of decentralising digital commerce and enabling inclusive growth through technology-driven platforms.

Senior Leadership Additions

Alongside Jain’s appointment, ONDC has strengthened its leadership team with the onboarding of Rohit Lohia as Chief Business Officer and Manoj Thakur as Chief Technology Officer. These additions are expected to support the organisation’s operational and technological roadmap as it continues to scale its network.

The expanded leadership structure reflects ONDC’s focus on building capabilities across business development and technology functions. The roles of Chief Business Officer and Chief Technology Officer are critical in driving adoption, managing partnerships, and enhancing the technical infrastructure required to support network growth.

Financial Performance and Operational Metrics

ONDC reported total revenue of Rs 33.41 crore for the financial year 2024–25, compared to Rs 14.7 crore in the previous year, indicating growth in its operational scale. During the same period, the organisation reduced its net loss to Rs 147.13 crore from Rs 195.6 crore a year earlier.

The network has also demonstrated significant activity levels, facilitating 288 million orders between January 2023 and August 2025. During this period, it onboarded approximately 167,500 retail sellers, expanding its reach across multiple categories and geographies.

However, ONDC discontinued the public disclosure of monthly transaction data in August last year. The last available data indicated that the platform processed 83.86 million retail orders between April and August 2024.

Operational Developments and Current Status

The rollout of network infrastructure development and service fees has experienced multiple delays since December 2024. Initially planned for earlier implementation, the introduction of these fees was deferred in October last year to allow network participants additional time to prepare.

Currently, ONDC is moving forward with the introduction of fees in the financial services segment, including transactions related to mutual funds and credit conducted through the network. This marks a step towards monetisation of certain services while continuing to develop the broader ecosystem.

With Jain now formally leading the organisation, ONDC is continuing its efforts to expand network adoption, enhance digital infrastructure, and build an inclusive commerce ecosystem. He has assumed full responsibilities as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, overseeing strategic initiatives, leadership alignment, and operational execution across the network.