Stephen Chan Chi-wan, GM of TVB confirms resignation after 18 years

Chan (pictured), popularly known as "Master Chi Wan" in Hong Kong, told reporters this morning that he is discussing a suitable final departure date with TVB and hopes there will be a smooth arrangement for his exit. He said that he planned to go on a "study tour" to Silicon Valley and Las Vagas after his resignation.

Chan has had a roller-coaster year in 2011, as reported in April when Chan was arrested, along with fellow employees Wilson Chan (head of business development), Wilson Chin (variety department executive producer), and actor Ning Jin. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) charged the men with alleged corruption, involving the operation of a shell company owned by Chan to outsource TV productions from TVB. Other charges include forcing TVB’s popular artists to perform for low or no payment.

Chan’s alleged corruption had been high in the showbiz news headlines for several months. However in September, the Hong Kong District Court acquitted Chan. The two co-defendants were also acquitted bribery and fraud charges.


TVB surprised the media industry by reinstating Chan to his post as general manager back in November, though he has maintained a much lower profile since signing back on.

A high profile media veteran in both the radio and TV broadcasting industries in Hong Kong, Chan spent 10 years as an administrative officer in the Hong Kong Governmen before becoming executive assistant to director and general manager for the Hong Kong Commercial Broadcasting company in 1992. He joined TVB in 1994 as programme controller and has been the general manager of broadcasting since 2004.

Chan’s resignation news just come after the news yesterday that the 104-year-old Sir Run Run Shaw will retire from the position of chairman of the board on 31 December 2011.

Also reported this week, TVB has appointed Byron Yu as its new head of marketing communication; he came on board from 1 December.