Dutch Media Exec Passes Away

LONDON: Frank de Jonge, the CEO of IDTV, passed away on the morning of June 12 in his hometown of Bussum, Netherlands, after losing his battle with cancer.  

He started his career as a human resources management advisor for the Ministry of the Interior, and later became the business manager for the St. Noordelijk Theater De Voorziening, where he stayed for 11 years. He then joined the VARA broadcasting organization as head of drama, culture, entertainment, children’s radio and television. In 1998, de Jonge became program director for IDTV, and was named CEO of the Dutch media group in 2001.

Alongside his position as CEO of IDTV, de Jonge was the chairman of the Vereniging van Onafhankelijke Televisie Producenten (OTP) and treasurer of the De Mug met de Gouden Tand theater group.

Steve Morrison, the chief executive of ALL3MEDIA, issued the statement: "Frank was an inspiring leader and a great man. He gave himself to IDTV. We will never forget his contribution."

Frank de Jonge will be laid to rest tomorrow at a private service.