Danish broadcaster DR has enlisted an experienced, A-star entertainment executive as Senior Producer for the 2014 contest.

Per Zachariassen has been enticed back to Denmark from Los Angeles, USA, where he has worked for the past two years at Fremantle Media, a major international player in the entertainment industry. With a twenty-year career backing him up, his appointment shows that DR means business when it comes to organising the 2014 event.

An appropriate CV

Before moving to America, Per had been involved in some of Denmark’s most popular entertainment shows, including the Danish version of X-Factor and the series Talent. A background in casting shows sets him up as the perfect candidate to produce an annual TV music festival focussing on Europe’s singing and songwriting stars. But even more appropriately, Per’s track record includes a stint on the team behind Denmark’s national final, Dansk Melodi Grand Prix. This saw the TV executive join DR on a trip to Moscow in 2009 as part of Brinck’s delegation, and means that Per is no stranger to Eurovision.

“I am really looking forward to being part of the team behind the Eurovision Song Contest in Denmark” Per explained to Eurovision.tv. “Eurovision is not just one of the world’s biggest TV shows; it is also one of the oldest living TV concepts and an integrated part of Europe’s TV history. I am proud to be able to put my mark on the show and gladly take on this huge challenge. I have for many years had a great partnership with DR and look forward to working with both Pernille Gaardbo [Executive Producer] and Jan Lagermand Lundme [DR Head of Entertainmet]. I am sure that we, together with the rest of the team, will deliver a world class show.”

Per’s appointment confirms that DR is showing a serious commitment to sourcing experience and skill in building its 2014 dream team. Stay tuned for more excitement as the broadcaster’s efforts gain momentum over the coming months, and a brand new contest starts to take shape.