ABC chairman Kim Williams has announced that former Nine manager Hugh Marks will replace David Anderson as managing director of the broadcaster.
Marks spent five years as CEO of Nine Entertainment, during which time he guided the company through a process of diversification that included a merger with Fairfax Media. Since stepping down at the end of 2020, he has served as a consultant to Tennis Australia and the NRL and launched production and distribution studio Dreamchaser with Endemol Shine Australia co-founder Carl Fennessy.
Prior to becoming CEO at Nine, Marks owned RGM Artists and served as CEO of Southern Star Group for seven years.
He was unanimously appointed by the ABC Board of Directors for a five-year term after an extensive national and international search.
In a statement, the executive thanked Williams and the ABC board for their support, adding: “It’s been a great time to work in media.”
“There are many opportunities to bring quality news and entertainment to Australians, but we have a choice in what we prioritize,” he said.
“Making the right choices will determine our future success.
“I look forward to working with everyone at the ABC as we continue to host and lead debates on the issues that matter to Australia and lead in the delivery of high-quality, truthful and engaging news and premium content.
“The ABC is an iconic and formidable media organization. No other institution has the power and influence that the ABC has. Faced with the many technology and programming opportunities before us, ABC employees It’s an honor to lead.”
The announcement comes four months after Anderson announced he would step down from the role he held for nearly six years.
Mr Williams said Marks’ extensive experience would be critical to the ABC to “further strengthen our reach and engagement with Australian communities”.
“Hugh will work with the ABC’s editorial team and creative team online and in audio and video across the ABC’s responsibilities to deliver news, children’s education, documentaries and international and diverse drama to Australians as viewers, listeners and readers. He is uniquely suited to lead the production team, which is available on all major distribution platforms,” he said.
“Hugh was an outstanding candidate not only for his experience across all aspects of media, but also for his strong track record of leading media organizations and driving real and sustained audience engagement. He is the right person to lead ABC as we plan for renewal and investment.”
Marks’ appointment will be effective from March 10, 2025.
