The man who coined the famous “price of a coffee” phrase in last year’s carriage fee negotiations between Discovery and Canal Digital is stepping down.
Harald Stromme is quitting as CEO of Discovery Networks Norway and Sweden after eight years in charge. There had reportedly been disagreements over the future direction of the business.
Sindre Østgård, Nordic director for digital services and development, is also departing.
“Discovery is well positioned for the future, but the owners and I have different views on what steps are now needed to achieve success. Therefore, I choose to leave the company. We part as friends, and I have great respect for Discovery and its people. After eight years at the helm, it can nevertheless be refreshing to shift focus,” said Strome.
Over the past three years there has been new original production and of course Eurosport’s purchase of Olympic rights.
“Harald has done an outstanding job for the company, both as head of the Norwegian and Swedish operations. We think it is sad that he is now ending, while we respect the decision. Harald has with the rest of the organization taken TVNorge and Discovery from being a small player in the Norwegian TV market, to now be among the largest, clearest and most offensive. We owe him a big thank you and wish him continued success,” said Michael Lang, President, International Development, Digital and Discovery Nordics.
No immediate replacement has been announced.
