ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE CEO Bert Habets has resigned from his position effective October 21, 2025, after a far-reaching management overhaul at the behest of majority owner MFE-MediaForEurope (MFE). Habets, who had been in office since November 2022, will move to a senior advisory function, helping with the leadership transition and supporting strategic efforts through year-end. His exit represents a defining moment in the evolution of ProSiebenSat.1 as it follows more closely the vision and operational model of MFE.
Habets assumed leadership at ProSiebenSat.1 during a period of transformation and market pressure. The German media company, known for its strong portfolio of television channels and digital entertainment platforms, had been navigating declining traditional TV viewership and rising competition from streaming services. Habets sought to balance legacy broadcast operations with digital expansion, implementing initiatives aimed at diversifying revenue streams and enhancing profitability.
In spite of this, MFE’s takeover of more than 75% of ProSiebenSat.1’s shares in September 2025 initiated a strategic rethink of the leadership structure of the company. The takeover, one of the biggest in recent European media history, placed MFE in a position to take control and simplify decision-making procedures. As part of this process, Habets’ exit was announced alongside other executive announcements, indicating a centralized management style under MFE.
Former MFE Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Marco Giordani will take the position of new ProSiebenSat.1 CEO. With more than three decades of experience in financial management and operating strategy, Giordani has held the role of CFO at MFE since 2000. MFE’s appointment of Giordani signals its desire to impose closer operational control and consolidate ProSiebenSat.1’s strategic direction with its wider European business. Analysts suggest that Giordani’s expertise in finance and restructuring will be critical in driving operational efficiencies and accelerating digital growth initiatives.
In addition to Habets’ departure, CFO Martin Mildner and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Markus Breitenecker have also stepped down. Bob Rajan has been appointed as interim CFO, tasked with advancing ProSiebenSat.1’s reorganization efforts and enhancing profitability. Most importantly, Breitenecker’s COO role will not be filled directly at the executive board level, suggesting a less bloated management structure for better streamlining. These adjustments are part of MFE’s overall strategy for eliminating overlapping functions and having more nimble leadership in a rapidly changing media environment.
Industry analysts point out that this leadership change is timely for ProSiebenSat.1. Legacy television revenues remain under pressure from international streaming platforms, while digital advertising and subscription-based models yield both threat and opportunity. Through the appointment of Giordani to the top seat, MFE seeks to reinforce financial control, streamline resource allocation, and boost investment in high-growth digital domains.
ProSiebenSat.1 has openly signaled confidence in the new leadership team to propel the company ahead. The company is dedicated to creating high-quality content and growing its digital presence to address changing consumer needs. Strategic priorities encompass maximizing the productivity of its production processes, using data-driven insights to build audience engagement, and pursuing new monetization opportunities across digital platforms.
Bert Habets’ time in office will be marked by his efforts to balance the traditional broadcasting company with new digital requirements. Although his initiatives struggled in the midst of competitive forces and market transitions, Habets’ leadership era highlighted the nuances of guiding a large media corporation in the midst of intense technology shifts. His move into a senior advisory position guarantees continuity and offers assistance in this momentous period of organizational change.
As ProSiebenSat.1 begins this new phase with Marco Giordani and MFE’s leadership, the company is set to further solidify its position as a top digital entertainment group in Europe. The focus on operational excellence, strategic positioning, and digital innovation mirrors the evolving media ecosystem, where traditional broadcasters need to constantly evolve to remain relevant and grow.
Overall, Bert Habets’ exit, as well as top executive shifts, is a turning point for ProSiebenSat.1. With renewed emphasis on strategic guidance, more streamlined leadership, and operational effectiveness, the company is well-poised to overcome industry challenges while capitalizing on digital-driven opportunities. The leadership shift reflects MFE’s determination to create a future-fit media company that is able to drive sustainable growth and shareholder value.
