Dr Markus Schäfer to remain President and CEO of ZDF Studios

Markus Schäfer and Co-Managing Director Karoline Meichsner-Sertl have reorganised the ZDF Studios Group structurally and driven its continued development in a consistent manner. A particular focus has been placed on strengthening synergies across the entire group – through clearly defined processes, more efficient workflows, and the implementation of future-proof digital solutions. At the same time, ZDF Studios GmbH at its Mainz location has further sharpened its market and competitive orientation.

ZDF Director-General Dr Norbert Himmler, who also serves as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of ZDF Studios, commented:'Under the leadership of Markus Schäfer, ZDF Studios has been given a clear strategic direction in recent years. The group has established itself as a significant production and distribution partner with an international presence. The integration of production, distribution and digital business models has been continuously advanced. I am delighted that Markus Schäfer will continue to pursue this course over the next five years'.

Dr Markus Schäfer: 'Our goal is clear: to position the ZDF Studios Group even more strongly as a relevant content and distribution partner. Together with Karoline Meichsner-Sertl and our colleagues across the entire group, we have succeeded in expanding our capabilities in the creation and exploitation of outstanding programmes.  At the heart of this is closer connectivity within the Group, combined with a clear market and customer focus to unlock further growth potential. We have created the right structures for this –  now it is a matter of using them consistently and driving them forward in a targeted manner'.

LC