Downtown Music announces sudden passing of ‘beloved and highly respected’ CTO, Manan Vohra

Downtown Music has disclosed the sudden passing of the company’s “beloved and highly respected” CTO, Manan Vohra.

Described by Downtown as an “inspirational and visionary leader”, Vohra joined Downtown-FUGA as Global Head of Technology and Product in 2020.

Vohra is survived by his wife, Peggy Struck, and his mother.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with them at this time,” said Downtown in a statement on Friday (April 26).

With his extensive background in product and technology, Downtown says that he drove FUGA’s digital transformation and innovation.

As a direct result of his success in the role, Vohra was promoted to CTO of Downtown Music in March 2023.

In that role, he led the group-wide advancement of Downtown’s technology ambitions.

Vohra also sat on the DDEX board and served as 7 Digital’s CTO prior to joining Downtown.

Downtown Music CEO, Pieter van Rijn, said: “Manan was one of the most caring, kind, intelligent and inspirational people I’ve known.

“He was our close colleague and a friend. He was such a great part of the joy working at Downtown.”

“Manan was one of the most caring, kind, intelligent and inspirational people I’ve known. He was our close colleague and a friend. He was such a great part of the joy working at Downtown.”

Pieter van Rijn, Downtown Music 

Added van Rijn: “To myself and to so many of us, Manan leaves such a void through his upbeat manner, his sensibility, humor and not to forget the dedication to our company.

“He was – and his legacy remains – such an integral part of our success and of the values we stand for.”

“Those who had that privilege to know Manan realized he was an exceptional individual.”

Andrew Bergman, Downtown Music Holdings

Downtown Music Holdings CEO, Andrew Bergman added: “Those who had that privilege to know Manan realized he was an exceptional individual.

“While his impact on the company as our Chief Technology Officer is undeniable, I was equally, if not more, moved by his wisdom and inspiration. Every interaction with him imparted valuable lessons about life, organizational design, leadership, and more.

“He possessed not only intelligence but a kindness that left a lasting impression on each of us individually and on our team as a whole.”Music Business Worldwide