NRK MD stepping down

Norwegian public broadcaster NRK has started the search for a new managing director.

Hans-Tore Bjerkaas

Hans-Tore Bjerkaas has decided not to renew his contract and will step down from the role next March when his fixed six-year term ends.

Bjerkaas, who joined NRK in 2007, said it was with a “heavy heart” that he would be leaving the company, adding that the broadcaster would benefit from a new MD with new ideas.

William Nygaard, chairman of NRK, said Bjerkass will leave the pubcaster in a very strong position. In particular, he helped to secure a new strategy until 2017, which will ensure essential changes are made to survive in an increasingly competitive marketplace, Nygaard added.

Bjerkaas climbed the promotional ladder at NRK to take the top position after first joining the broadcaster more than 30 years ago. He previously worked in roles including head of programmes, regional manager and channel director before becoming MD.

Flagship channel NRK1’s forthcoming autumn schedule will include family drama Hjem, classical music talent show Meisterklasse, celebrity reality series Hva har du i bagasjen?, as well as the third season of Danish crime hit The Killing.