The European Broadcasting Union has appointed broadcast events leader Martin Green in a new role as Director to oversee the Eurovision Song Contest as an event and brand.
Green has been executive producer of major events includes London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Hull UK City of Culture 2017, the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 and the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool in 2023.
Eurovision 2024 in Malmö drew headlines beyond the music because of the protests against Israel’s participation, withdrawal threats before the Grand Final and a historic disqualification of the Netherlands’ artist Joost Klein. Following the debacle, there were repeated calls for structural changes in the contest’s organisational team at the EBU — a sentiment echoed by the conclusions of an independent investigation.
Wiwibloggs notes ESC Director’s responsibility will be of a more strategic manner, with the Executive Supervisor Martin Österdahl focusing solely on the production of Eurovision and more hands-on matters during the contest.
“Martin’s experience, strategic thinking and creative energy will be invaluable to the song contest as we get set for the 2025 event and evolve into the future,” said Jean Philip De Tender, the EBU’s Director of Media and Deputy Director-General.
“The creation of this senior role and Martin’s appointment reflect how we’re building on the history and the strengths of a unique platform that celebrates the power of music to bring people together.”
“The Eurovision Song Contest captures the imaginations of people across generations, countries and cultures. It remains a beacon of joy, artistry and diversity – and a testament to the inclusive power of public service broadcasting,” said Green.
“Being asked to lead the event is a dream come true and I look forward to working with everyone involved to take the project and the brand into an exciting future.”
The 69th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Basel, Switzerland on 13-17 May 2025. Participating broadcasters will be announced by the end of this year (SBS holds its Upfronts on October 30).
Green will start as Director of the ESC in November.
Photos: ESC
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