MediaWorks and Spark both sent out media statements this morning confirming key executive appointments, with the former appointing a new chief executive and the latter a new chief financial officer.
In appointing Australian Michael Anderson as its new chief executive, MediaWorks confirmed industry speculation that has seen several stories published on Anderson as a possible successor over the last week.
Anderson is set to start his new job on 29 August, leaving behind his roles as the chair of Oztam and Ooh Media and a non-executive director of Fairfax Media.
In contrast to former chief executive Mark Weldon, Anderson has extensive experience in the entertainment industry, having served as the chief executive of one of Australia’s largest commercial radio groups Austereo (now Southern Cross Austereo) for over seven years.
“On behalf of the Board, I am thrilled to welcome Michael to MediaWorks,” says MediaWorks chair Rod McGeoch. “This is a pivotal time for the media industry and with many years of high profile media experience, as a CEO, a board director and in sales, Michael brings the perfect credentials to lead MediaWorks through these dynamic times.”
Anderson will also take a seat around the board table after commencing his role.
The arrival of Anderson will bring an end to David Chalmers’ tenure as the interim chief executive of the media company.
And coinciding with the statement from MediaWorks this morning, Spark sent out a media statement confirming the appointment of Chalmers as its new chief financial officer.
Chalmers will succeed Jolie Hodson, who, as announced earlier in the year, is moving from her current CFO role to become CEO of Spark Digital, the business unit supporting Spark’s corporate and government customers.
Before his appointment as the interim chief executive at MediaWorks, Chalmers served as the chief financial officer at Flower Street and, before this, has held a number of senior financial and general management roles with various organisations.
“We are excited to have David join our Leadership Team. He’s a talented financial executive with significant international experience,” commented managing director Simon Moutter.
Chalmers is expected to take up his appointment later in the year.
