Archive notice: This article was originally published on August 13, 2007. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Kofler: “Following the successful conclusion of the contract with arena, a new phase of development is beginning for Premiere: the course is set for growth again, and the strategic starting position is excellent. Important rights packages will come onto the market in the coming months. These involve contract terms until 2012 or longer, and correspondingly long-term strategic courses and operational business plans have to be developed. I have made the decision for myself that I will no longer be available for Executive Board work at Premiere for such a time horizon. Consequently, I am therefore now handing responsibility into the hands of my successor, before these groundbreaking decisions are pending. I think that now is the right time for a change of leadership at Premiere.”
According to Kofler, his decision was based exclusively on considerations concerning his personal life planning. “For 25 years I have been involved with the medium of television in all its forms. For 19 years, I have worked without interruption as Managing Director, Chairman of the Executive Board and shareholder of private television companies. Now the time has come for a change of subject: I intend, as the leading shareholder, to build up a group of companies that positions itself in selected growth markets, though not in the media industry. I now know the media business in all its ramifications. I look forward to turning my attention and energy to new subjects.”
Last week, Kofler parted with his Premiere shares – 1.227 million units, corresponding to 1.25 percent of the share capital of Premiere AG. The shares were sold through the stock exchange.
Rainer Großkopf, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Premiere AG: “We very much regret that Dr. Kofler is no longer available for Executive Board work at Premiere AG. We respect his decision and wish him all the best for the future. Premiere AG owes Dr. Kofler a great debt of gratitude for his extraordinary achievements as shareholder and Chairman of the Executive Board.” Yesterday, the Supervisory Board appointed Michael Börnicke as the new Chairman of the Executive Board of Premiere AG. Börnicke was previously Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Premiere. Alexander Teschner, previously Deputy Chief Financial Officer, was appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer (see separate media release).
Kofler: “I am pleased about this harmonious and organic succession arrangement. Michael Börnicke was my closest partner and companion at Premiere over the past five years. With him and his Executive Board colleagues, the future of Premiere is in the best hands. The new Executive Board will continue the company’s positive development with continuity and undiminished speed.”
