Sarbu leaves CME
August 21, 2013
Central European Media Enterprises has revealed that Adrian Sarbu is resigning as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.
Sarbu has played a prominent role in the Company for nearly two decades. Initially, he was CME’s partner when CME launched Pro TV in Romania in 1995. Subsequently, he served as Chief Operating Officer of the Company from 2007 to 2009. Since 2009 he has been President and 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.”
In order to ensure an orderly transition, Sarbu will continue to be employed by CME until January 2014. The Board has designated Duco Sickinghe, a member of the Board, to lead a committee of directors to ensure a smooth business transition while the committee conducts a search for a permanent CEO.