German media company ProSiebenSat.1 has announced a three-year contract extension for its CEO, Bert Habets. This secures his position until October 2028.
The Supervisory Board's decision reflects strong support for Habets' strategic direction, providing crucial leadership clarity during ongoing disagreements with major shareholder MFE-MediaForEurope. Since assuming the role in 2022, Habets, 54, has overseen a significant restructuring of the company. This included a sharpened focus on TV entertainment and digital platforms.
Under his guidance, ProSiebenSat.1's streaming service, Joyn, has expanded to 10 million monthly users. The company has also divested several non-core assets, including Verivox, Urban Sports Club, and About You. "The Supervisory Board is sending an important signal of stability," stated outgoing chairman Dr Andreas Wiele, emphasizing that the decision also has the backing of his successor, Maria Kyriacou. He added, "Bert Habets’ leadership qualities, strategic foresight, and deep media expertise make him the right person to continue guiding the company."
This contract extension follows months of uncertainty stemming from MFE's growing influence. The Italian media conglomerate, controlled by the Berlusconi family, holds approximately 30% of ProSiebenSat.1 and has been advocating for integration into a broader pan-European media entity under MFE's leadership. MFE contends that this integration is crucial for creating a powerful continental media alliance to better compete with the expanding presence of US tech and streaming giants.
"We have reached important milestones in transforming ProSiebenSat.1 into a digital entertainment company," said Habets. "I look forward to continuing our work and strengthening our entertainment presence in the DACH region. I thank the Supervisory Board for its trust."
Although the matter of MFE's push for integration remains unresolved, Habets' reappointment offers the company valuable planning stability and reinforces its dedication to an independent strategic course.