Advanced Television

BBC Studios Nordic Production appoints leadership roles

November 17, 2025

BBC Studios Nordic Production has announced three leadership appointments in Denmark and Norway, reinforcing its commitment to local talent and growth across the region.

In Denmark, Jens Villebro, currently Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Managing Director for Denmark, effective from the December 1st. Villebro will continue in his position as Nordic COO alongside Chief Financial Officer, Kent Pedersen. illebro succeeds Daniel Svarts, who has been instrumental in building the Danish business.

BBC Studios Nordic Production is also actively recruiting a Programme Director to work closely with Villebro and the wider team.

In Norway, Mirja Minjares has been appointed as Managing Director, effective from the December 2025 1st. Minjares, currently Head of Entertainment for Norway, has been central in shaping the company’s creative output since joining the team earlier this year and will now lead the Norwegian production business into its next phase.

Also joining the Norwegian team on the January 1st is Hans Lukas Hansen (pictured), who will take on the role of Head of Development. Hansen brings senior experience in reality and entertainment formats, including NRK’s new reality series Code Red – The Lighthouse, as well as major franchises such as local versions of X Factor, Idol, and Got Talent. Hansen will work closely with Minjares and the existing team to drive development and sales across entertainment and reality genres.

Jacob De Boer, Executive Vice President, Global Production at BBC Studios, commented: “We’re very proud to strengthen our teams in Norway and Denmark and to recognise the outstanding talent within our own company. These appointments reflect our commitment to nurturing team members as well as investing in growing our 3 local production businesses”

Villebro said: “I’m honoured to take on the role of Managing Director for Denmark and continue driving BBC Studios’ growth in this dynamic market. BBC Studios holds a unique position in Denmark, built on strong values and an enduring curiosity about the market and our audiences. I am tremendously excited to continue this journey with our exceptionally talented teams and deliver programmes that create success for our clients and partners.”

Minjares, Managing Director in Norway, added: “I’m excited to take on this new role and continue building on the creative momentum we’ve established in Norway. Our ambition is to deliver bold, high-quality content that resonates with local audiences while showcasing the strength of BBC Studios’ global expertise. I look forward to working with Hans Lukas and our talented team to shape the next chapter of our Norwegian business.”

BBC Studios Nordic Production continues to expand its slate across the region. In Norway, Verdens Verste Publikum (Silence is Golden) will launch on NRK in early 2026. BBC Studios Norway is also in pre-production for a new reality series for NRK to be produced in May 2026. In addition, the successful youth drama Klassen – The First Years has been recommissioned for new season in both Denmark, Sweden and Norway.

Categories: Articles, Business, People

Tags: , , , ,