Christian Wikander named chair of Sweden’s Professional Board for Film & TV

Former HBO Max and Banijay executive Christian Wikander has been elected as the new chairman of Swedish industry body the Professional Board for Film & Television (SPBFT).

Christian Wikander

Wikander takes over the role from incumbent Thomas Nilsson, who is stepping down as chairman after three years in the position. He was also one of the founders of the organisation.

In January of this year, Wikander departed his role as global head of scripted for European production group Banijay after less than a year.

He had joined Banijay at the start of 2023 to replace head of scripted Lars Blomgren who joined Michael Ellenberg’s Media Res.

In his previous role at HBO Max, Wikander was VP and commissioning editor of original programming for the Nordics before exiting due to lay-offs at HBO Max Europe. He also served as head of drama at Swedish pubcaster SVT.

The SPBFT works to improve industry skills through vocational training, skills development and recruitment in film and TV.

Wikander said: “I am honoured and grateful for the confidence to lead the Professional Board for Film and TV into the future.

“Our industry faces both great opportunities and challenges. I look forward to continuing the work of clarifying the industry’s professional roles and developing an industry model to highlight skills and capacity in our sector.”

Nilsson said: “It has been a great honour to be part of the Professional Board. Together we have worked to adapt to the rapid changes in the film and television industry and to make professional competence in our sector documented and measurable.

“I hand over the role with full confidence to Christian Wikander, who I know will continue to lead the Board.”