Barb chief Thelin to step down

Thelin (pictured) joined Barb as chief executive in 2004 from Carlton Television where he worked for 10 years. Before joining Carlton he had spells with ITV sales houses HTV, TVMM and Merlin Sales.

In a statement today he said it was now time “to give some more attention to ideas inspired by my Christian faith as well as explore other new initiatives, and consider something more creative or entrepreneurial… It has been a huge responsibility overseeing this service and I’m proud of the reputation for quality, objectivity and dependability that Barb has.”

Barb chairman Nigel Walmsley said, “When he leaves Bjarne will have completed nine years of service. We will be sorry to see him go as he has made a huge contribution but we understand his desire to do something different and he has given us ample time to plan forward for succession and handover.”