Former SBS Exec Named MD of Swiss Endemol Outfit

LONDON: Christoph Bürge is to take over as managing director of b&b Endemol in Switzerland, succeeding Hannes Bichsel, who is stepping down after ten years in the post.

Bürge has more than 15 years of experience in the television sector, with a career that 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 Sat.1 in Germany. He spent three and a half years as CEO of SBS in Romania, worked closely with Endemol on the formats Deal or No Deal and Big Brother. Bürge takes up the position on February 1, 2010, when Bichsel steps down. Bichsel will continue as a consultant and shareholder.

Martha Brass, the executive director of international operations at Endemol Group, said: “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 ten years. “

Bichsel added: "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."

Bürge commented: “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.”