Jean Philip De Tender,  general manager television Eén, Canvas and Ketnet for Flemish public service broadcaster VRT has been appointed Media Director of the European Broadcasting Union.  

Mr De Tender will take up the post in May, replacing Annika Nyberg Frankenhaeuser, who became the EBU’s first Media Director in February 2012, consolidating the activities of the Television and Radio Departments, News Services and EBU Training.

In a media career spanning more than 25 years, Mr De Tender has presented and produced TV content, provided strategic advice, and played an active role in the EBU Community.

Between 2007–2013, he was General Manager of Eén, with responsibility for the strategy, vision and programming of Flanders largest TV channel. He has also been a Member of the Eurovision TV Committee since 2010, its chair since 2013 and is the author of "Alles is een verhaal" (Everything Is A Story).

EBU Director General Ingrid Deltenre said Mr De Tender is an inspiring leader with a clear vision for public service media.  

“Jean Philip has been a part of the EBU community for many years,” said Ms Deltenre. “This new role plays further to his strengths. Public broadcasting is in his DNA and as the channel manager of one of Europe’s most successful public service broadcasters, there is much that he can share.”    

Mr De Tender says he is more than ready for the challenge.   

“Today, I feel better prepared than ever to take up a crucial role at the EBU,” Mr De Tender said. “The last five years have given me a special insight into how the organization works – both from within the permanent services and in the network. 25 years at VRT has taught me a lot. Nevertheless I would like to believe that my service to public broadcasting is just beginning.”