Lieven Vermaele stepping down as EBU tech director

After six years in the position, Lieven Vermaele is to leave his post as director of technology & innovation at the EBU this summer. Vermaele is set to return to his hometown of Ghent, in Belgium, to become CEO of technology start-up CandIT-Media.

In addition to his work at EBU, Vermaele chairs cross-industry group DigiTAG as well as the ETSI/EBU/CENELEC Joint Technical Committee, which is responsible for setting European standards for media and broadcasting systems (WorldDMB, DVB, HbbTV). He is also on the council of the IBC.

“Moving on from this unique job carries an element of regret,” says Vermaele. “I could continue in this role, which would continue to bring great fulfilment for many years. However, it’s my personal belief that there is immense value in recruiting new minds with fresh ideas.

“I am extremely proud of the people and talent within my department and across the EBU. I firmly believe in the organisation and public service media, and am proud of the success and recognition that we have achieved over the years.

“This next phase of my career offers an opportunity to provide a solution to one of the key issues facing many organizations: high throughput and large file transport, combined with the mission critical services aspect and requirements like guaranteed performance, QoS, efficiency, scalability and reliability.”

EBU director general Ingrid Deltenre thanked Vermaele for his contribution over the past six years: “With European broadcasters facing a challenging period of technological transition, Lieven has ensured that EBU Members have had access to optimal technical frameworks. Under his direction EBU Technology & Innovation has sharpened its focus on increasing member cost-effectiveness and enhancing the media consumer’s experience.”

Vermaele’s position will be advertised immediately, with a replacement expected to be announced within the next few months.