by Guy Solo Comment Closed




A dramatic appointment: the EBU has announced the new Commercial Director of the Eurovision Song Contest. Who is he, and how will this decision impact the upcoming Contest?

Just ahead of Eurovision 2025 in Basel, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has announced a bold and strategic move: Jurian Van Der Meer joins the Eurovision Song Contest as the new Commercial Director. This marks a pivotal step aimed at steering the world’s biggest music competition toward a clear commercial future, broadening its global impact far beyond the May events. Who is the man behind the role, and how will this appointment shape the next Contest?




Global Experience and Broad Responsibilities

Jurian Van Der Meer brings extensive international experience in the media and entertainment industry. In his previous role, he served as Global Commercial and Brand Licensing Director at “ITV Studios”, a major British multinational television production and distribution company, where he oversaw the commercial strategy of global hits such as “Love Island”, “The Voice”, “Hell’s Kitchen”, “The Chase”, and others. Before that, he held senior positions at “Banijay” (formerly “Endemol Shine”), managing the commercial profit and loss and advancing innovative deals for brands like “Big Brother”, “MasterChef”, and more.

In his new role, Jurian will lead the commercial expansion of the Eurovision Song Contest. His responsibilities include developing commercial strategies, strengthening brand partnerships, expanding global licensing and merchandising, fostering digital and streaming initiatives, and enhancing the Contest’s overall commercial model.

A Strategic Appointment Ahead of the 70th Anniversary

The EBU views Jurian’s appointment as a vital part of its long-term strategy to secure the future of the Eurovision Song Contest. “This is a significant step toward transforming the Eurovision Song Contest into a global entertainment brand that operates year-round,” stated the EBU. The focus is not only on maintaining the Contest’s values—such as creativity and unity—but also on reinforcing its financial foundations to ensure it remains a major force in global entertainment for decades to come.

This move comes as preparations ramp up for Eurovision’s 70th anniversary in 2026. It’s already clear that Eurovision 2025, set to take place in Basel, Switzerland, marks the beginning of a new era. The upcoming event is expected to attract over 160 million TV viewers and millions more through digital platforms, with 37 public broadcasters participating.




First Reactions: Excitement and New Aspirations

Martin Green, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, welcomed the appointment, saying: “We are thrilled to welcome Jurian to the Eurovision team. His impressive track record in driving innovation, securing global partnerships, and expanding media brands aligns perfectly with our vision. His leadership will be crucial in taking the Contest to new heights.”

Jurian himself shared his enthusiasm: “This is an incredibly exciting time to join the Eurovision family as Commercial Director. The Eurovision Song Contest is so much more than a music show—it’s a global cultural phenomenon with immense potential for innovative partnerships and bold commercial initiatives. I’m thrilled to be part of this new chapter of its commercial growth.”

Looking Toward a Promising Future

All eyes are now on the months ahead as the Eurovision’s commercial division gears up to implement its ambitious plans. The challenges are many: balancing cultural values with commercial ambitions, strengthening the Contest’s digital presence in a fast-evolving media world, and above all—turning Eurovision into a global experience that thrives year-round, not just over three evenings a year.

Will the new leadership meet the high expectations? One thing is certain: the Eurovision Song Contest is now entering an ambitious and thrilling new chapter.




Eurovision 2025: Dates and Time

The Eurovision Song Contest for 2025 will take place in May, as per tradition. Here are the exact dates:

For those wondering “What time will Eurovision 2025 air?” each event will begin at 21:00 CET.

Source: EBU

Eurovision 2025: This will be Switzerland’s 65th participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Switzerland joined the competition in 1956, being one of the seven founding countries, and has won three times over the years. Its most recent victory was at the last Eurovision in 2025, with Nemo’s song “The Code.” This win follows Switzerland’s previous victory in 1988 with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi,” performed by international singer Céline Dion.