News

1 September 2009

ENDEMOL ANNOUNCES MANAGEMENT HANDOVER IN SWITZERLAND

Endemol, a world leader in entertainment programming today announced the appointment of Christoph Bürge as Managing Director of b&b Endemol, Switzerland.

Mr. Bürge is a leading executive with 15 years experience in the television sector. His career has spanned across broadcasters throughout Europe including TV3 in Switzerland, SBS in Romania, TV2 in Hungary, Swiss National Television in Switzerland and his most recent post at Sat1 in Germany.

During his three and a half years as Chief Executive Officer at SBS in Romania, Christoph worked closely with Endemol on runaway global hit formats Deal or No Deal and Big Brother. He was also responsible for bringing the first two series of Big Brother to TV3 in Switzerland and TV2 Hungary.

Mr Bürge takes up the position on 1st February 2010 and succeeds Hannes Bichsel, who is stepping down as Managing Director of b&b Endemol after 10 years, while continuing as a consultant and shareholder.

Martha Brass, Executive Director, International Operations at Endemol Group says; "Christoph has great knowledge and experience of the European television industry and his career has seen him bring some of Endemol's biggest shows to broadcasters across many territories. I am extremely pleased to have him on board to run the first class operation that Hannes has built up over the last 10 years. "

Hannes Bichsel adds: "While on the one hand it will be difficult to step aside I know the company couldn't be in better shape or in better hands. Christoph's track record speaks for itself and I have no doubt he is the right person to further grow the business. "

Christoph Bürge comments: "I am greatly looking forward to continuing what Hannes has built up in the last ten years. Endemol's reputation for producing top rating entertainment is second to none and I'm extremely excited about working with the outstandingly creative team there and playing a part in the future development of the company."

Endemol set up in Switzerland in May 2000 with the acquisition of a 50% stake in the television production company B&B Medien AG. The company has been an independent television producer since 1991 and works for both public and commercial broadcasters in Switzerland.