Thum + Mahr announces retirement of Managing Director Stefan Mertens

With his expertise and vision, Mertens has earned his place in the history of Thum + Mahr, Broadcast Solutions, and the wider broadcast industry. Having graduated from Technical University Cologne in 1988, with a Master of Engineering in communications engineering, Mertens began his career working on groundbreaking projects at WDR in Cologne, where he pioneered the introduction of digital mixing console technology. Subsequent roles at Monitora Broadcast Systems and VCS Nachrichtentechnik eventually led him to join Thum + Mahr in 2000.

As COO and later CSO, Stefan Mertens played a key role in shaping Thum + Mahr’s development from 2000 onwards. Under his leadership, the company became a globally successful system integrator, delivering innovative software solutions, workflow, and orchestration projects far beyond traditional broadcast technology. Numerous partnerships with leading broadcasters worldwide, including ARD, BBC, Radio France, ORF, and Mediacorp Singapore, are a testament to his dedication and innovative spirit.

Stefan Breder, CEO Broadcast Solutions Group, commented, “The Broadcast Solutions Group extends its heartfelt thanks to Stefan Mertens for his tireless commitment and the many pioneering projects he initiated and supported. His influence has left an indelible mark on the company and the industry as a whole. The entire Broadcast Solutions Group wishes Stefan Mertens all the best for this new chapter in his life.”

Following Mertens retirement, Bernd Steinhoff now takes full responsibility as COO for the operational management of Thum + Mahr GmbH.