Banijay: Marco Bassetti will serve as CEO of newly formed group

Banijay: Marco Bassetti will serve as CEO of newly formed group

Banijay Group Appoints Marco Bassetti as CEO, Expands Strategic Focus on IP and Live Events

According to reports, Banijay Group, a global leader in entertainment production and distribution, has reaffirmed its strategic direction under the leadership of Marco Bassetti, who has served as CEO of Banijay Entertainment and Banijay Live since 2013. Bassetti, a veteran of the media industry with over three decades of experience, has overseen significant growth through acquisitions and diversification, including the 2020 integration of Endemol Shine and the 2023 creation of Banijay Live.

The company's financial performance reflects this expansion. In the first half of 2025, Banijay reported revenue of €1.42 billion, with adjusted EBITDA rising 6% year-on-year to €208 million. Key drivers include its extensive intellectual property (IP) portfolio, such as MasterChef and Big Brother, as well as diversification into live experiences. Live events contributed €173 million in H1 2025, a 15.4% increase, driven by acquisitions like Balich Wonder Studio and partnerships with immersive entertainment firms.

Bassetti emphasizes leveraging IP across formats, including scripted content (Peaky Blinders, Black Mirror) and live events, to maximize value. "We aim to operate IP-based events, such as Survivor camps or MasterChef experiences, rather than merely licensing formats," he stated. The company also explores opportunities in sports content, capitalizing on €60 billion in global sports rights investments.

Banijay's strategy prioritizes entrepreneurship, innovation, and ESG standards while maintaining a disciplined approach to M&A. Despite industry consolidation challenges, Bassetti noted that "the M&A market is not a priority today," with a focus instead on organic growth and talent partnerships.

With operations spanning 12 European countries, the U.S., Australia, and expanding into Italy via its stake in Ambra Media, Banijay continues to position itself as a top-three global entertainment entity, as outlined by founder Stéphane Courbit.