ProSiebenSat.1 & Discovery Taps Google Exec for 7TV

ProSiebenSat.1 and Discovery Communications have appointed Alexandar Vassilev as the CEO of 7TV, their joint premium direct-to-consumer entertainment streaming service in Germany.

Vassilev joins from Google, where he most recently was product manager for Google Search. He takes on this new post with immediate effect and will be responsible for the strategic growth and development of the new consumer digital service, which launched six months ago. He reports to the board of the joint venture. Christian Dankl, interim CEO of 7TV and CEO AdVoD at ProSiebenSat.1, is also appointed as a board member of the joint venture.

Michael Lang, the president of DNI Digital and Eurosport Digital and CEO of MotorTrend, said: “Our ambition to build world-class platform is underscored with the hiring of Alexandar Vassilev and his digital pedigree in building world-class products, which will drive an aggressive consumer-first blueprint for our OTT business. When we launched a global search to fill the CEO role, we knew as soon as we met Alex that he had the skill-set and entrepreneurial spirit to maximize the JV’s potential. His decision to join and leave Google, also shows how much he believes in the potential.”

Christof Wahl, member of the executive board, digital and COO at ProSiebenSat.1 Group, added: “This is a great appointment for 7TV. Alexandar Vassilev has spent his whole career working at the heart of the digital revolution. His knowledge of building strong consumer-centric digital products will help us grow 7TV and position it strongly for the future.”

Vassilev said: “I’m excited to lead the growth and evolution of our mobile and OTT video streaming service in Germany. By bringing together two major media brands, strong content and all the potential of this new service, my ambition is to build an unrivaled direct-to-consumer brand.”