Adrian Sarbu Departs CME

HAMILTON: Adrian Sarbu is resigning as the president and CEO of Central European Media Enterprises (CME), after having been with the company for nearly two decades.

Sarbu was CME’s partner when the company launched Pro TV in Romania in 1995. He went on to serve as COO of the company from 2007 to 2009. He became the president and CEO in 2009. Sarbu will remain with the company until January 1, 2014. Duco Sickinghe, a member of the CME board, will lead a committee of directors to ensure a smooth transition during the search for a permanent CEO.

Ronald Lauder, CME’s founder and chairman of the CME board of directors, said on behalf of the board: "I would like to thank Adrian for his numerous contributions to the success of CME and for the passion, dedication and outstanding creative vision he has shown since 1995. Over this period, Adrian drove the implementation of CME’s multi-channel strategy and new media initiatives. And he has worked diligently and successfully as CEO to maintain the Company’s market leading positions in difficult macroeconomic conditions and a transitional period in the industry. We are grateful for Adrian’s leadership throughout and look forward to continuing to work with him in the future."

Sarbu said: “I am proud to have been a part of CME for nearly 20 years and to have ensured the continued success of the Company through this very challenging period. It is an outstanding organization with talented employees. I am confident the Company is well positioned for the future. My mission at CME is accomplished.”