We have our new Boss – It’s MartIn Österdahl

The Eurovision Song Contest has its new Executive Supervisor – Martin Österdahl.

3 months ago it was announced that Jon Ola Sand, the current Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest will step down from his role. The EBU opened the applications for the new search of the Executive Supervisor and today it was announced that Martin Österdahl has the honour to be the new Executive Supervisor.

EBU director of Media Jean Philip De Tender together with the chair of the ESC Reference Group made the decision. Jean Philip is very confident with the decision, stating:

« Martin is the perfect candidate to continue and build on the exceptional work done by Jon Ola Sand over the past decade. The Eurovision Song Contest has been transformed under Jon Ola’s guidance, setting new standards in world-class television production. Martin is a great creative talent and has invaluable experience from his work as Executive Producer of two exceptional Contests and numerous other successful entertainment shows. He is an excellent leader and storyteller, which is core for us to work closely with EBU Members to develop and grow the world’s largest live music event in the next decade and beyond. »

Martin Österdahl will be the Executive Supervisor of the ESC and also of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. Martin is very happy about the honour of stepping to the footsteps of Jon Ola Sand, stating:

« The Eurovision Song Contest is the world’s largest live music event and the longest-running show on television. Its ability to entertain and unite people across Europe and beyond is unique and something that should never be taken for granted. I feel greatly honoured to be given the opportunity to strive for its continued evolvement and popularity into the future. I’m looking forward to joining the team in Geneva in May and can’t wait to get started. »

Martin Österdahl already has several Eurovision experiences. He was the Executive Producer of the ESC in 2013 and 2016 and was a member of the Reference Group between 2012 and 2018. 

Jon Ola Sand is very confident that the ESC is in safe hands, adding:

« I’ve been working alongside Martin Österdahl for many years. First at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013 and then again in 2016 but also in the ESC Reference Group where Martin was a valued member for 7 years. I’m confident that the future of the Eurovision Song Contest is in very capable hands and that Martin is the right person to take this incredible show to the next level. »

Martin will start his role as the Executive Supervisor immediately after the grand final of the ESC 2020.

What do you thInk about our new ExecutIve SupervIsor? Tell us In the comments sectIon below.

Photo by: Sören Vilks