Jochem de Jong, SVP, General Manager Benelux, has decided to leave the company; Alco de Jong is appointed country manager.
De Jong leaves at his own request after a tenure of six and a half years. He will be replaced by Alco de Jong, who has been at Discovery for ten years, most recently as VP head of channels.
Dee Forbes, president and managing director of Discovery Networks Western Europe: “I have worked with Jochem for the past three years. He is a fantastic manager and is responsible for significant growth in the Benelux. Jochem has put down a strategy that made Discovery Channel, TLC and ID into strong brands, that repeatedly break viewing records. He leaves a professional team and a company in very good health behind.
“Although I regret that Jochem leaves, I am glad that I can announce that Alco de Jong succeeds him as country manager. Alco has extensive knowledge of the Dutch TV market and knows exactly where our stations are. He also has a strong business insight. I am convinced that the Benelux can only continue to grow under his leadership. ”
Jochem de Jong: “After nearly seven years at Discovery I think it’s time for something new. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities that Discovery has given me to grow the group in the Benelux to build and to put together a great team in Amsterdam, which is responsible for this success. I know I am leaving a strong and healthy company that is ready for the future and that will only continue to grow under the direction of Alco. ”
