Brussels – The search is on for a new head of Belgium’s public broadcaster, RTBF, following the impending departure of Jean-Paul Philippot. A list of potential successors is emerging, sparking debate and, reportedly, internal tension within the organization. The appointment is closely watched, not only by media professionals but also by political observers, given the significant role RTBF plays in the cultural and political landscape of French-speaking Belgium. The process of selecting Philippot’s replacement is proving to be anything but straightforward, with recent board meetings marked by disagreement and leaks.
Philippot, who has led RTBF since 2018, is expected to step down by the end of the summer. The selection of his successor is being handled by RTBF’s board of administrators, and the pool of candidates reflects a diverse range of experience, from within the media industry to the broader public sector. The search for a new leader comes at a critical time for public broadcasting in Belgium, as it navigates evolving consumption habits and increasing competition from digital platforms. Understanding who will take the helm of RTBF requires a look at the individuals vying for the position and the political currents influencing the decision.
A Diverse Field of Candidates
Eight candidates have been officially identified as being in contention for the role of RTBF’s next administrator-general. They include Linda Ait Ameur, currently the director-general within the Federal Public Service Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue. Didier Delval, the former director-general of the Centre Hospitalier de Wallonie picarde (CHwapi); Christophe Dujardin, Chief Consumer Officer at Orange Belgium; and Caroline Franckx, the CEO of the CHU Brugmann hospital.
Also in the running are Isabelle Grippa, CEO of hub.brussels, the Brussels agency for entrepreneurship; Michael Lamhasni, the interim president of the Federal Public Service Justice; Sandrine Roustand, a member of the RTBF’s management committee; and Emmanuel Tourpe, who leads the media outlets of France Télévisions’ Overseas Department. Rounding out the list is Chris Vandervinne, also a member of the RTBF’s management committee. Each candidate brings a unique skillset and perspective to the table, representing a broad spectrum of leadership experience.
Notably, some previously considered candidates have been removed from contention. Frédéric Cauderlier, a former spokesperson for Charles Michel (MR) and currently editor-in-chief of TV Monaco, was reportedly among those whose applications were not retained, according to reports from La Libre Belgique.
Internal Tensions and Political Considerations
The selection process hasn’t been without its drama. A recent meeting of the RTBF’s board of administration was reportedly disrupted by tensions and the leaking of discussion details to the media. According to reports, Jean-Paul Philippot himself left the meeting in protest over the leaks, followed shortly after by Axel Miller, the MR party’s vice-president of the board. Nadia Geerts previously resigned from the vice-presidency of the RTBF, adding to the sense of instability.
The involvement of the MR party is particularly noteworthy. The term “MR-compatible” has been circulating in connection with the search, suggesting a preference for a candidate aligned with the political views of the centrist liberal party. This has raised concerns about potential political interference in what should be an independent appointment. The role of the public broadcaster is to serve all citizens, and maintaining its independence from political influence is crucial for public trust. The selection process is therefore under increased scrutiny to ensure fairness and transparency.
The Role of hub.brussels CEO Isabelle Grippa
Isabelle Grippa, the CEO of hub.brussels, has emerged as a prominent candidate. Grippa, who leads the Brussels agency for entrepreneurship, has a background in business and economic development. Her experience in managing a large organization and fostering innovation could be valuable assets for RTBF as it adapts to the changing media landscape. However, her lack of direct experience in the media sector may be a point of consideration for the board.
What’s Next for RTBF?
The RTBF board is expected to continue its deliberations in the coming weeks. The selection process will likely involve further interviews and assessments of the candidates’ qualifications and vision for the future of the broadcaster. The ultimate decision will be a significant one, shaping the direction of public service media in French-speaking Belgium for years to approach. The appointment will also be closely watched by other public broadcasters in Europe, as they grapple with similar challenges of maintaining relevance and independence in a rapidly evolving media environment.
The next key date is currently unconfirmed, but the board has indicated a desire to have a new administrator-general in place before the end of the summer, as Philippot’s tenure concludes. Stakeholders, including RTBF employees, viewers, and the broader public, will be eager to learn who will be entrusted with leading this vital institution.
We will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they turn into available. Share your thoughts on the future of RTBF in the comments below.
