Hugh Marks Takes Over as New ABC Managing Director
Hugh Marks, former Nine chief, has been appointed as the new ABC boss, starting in March, amid a backdrop of recent controversies.
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Sydney: So, Hugh Marks is stepping in as the new head of the ABC. He’s coming from Nine Entertainment, where he was the big boss for six years. He’s got a solid background in media, so it makes sense they picked him.
Kim Williams, the chair of ABC, praised Hugh for his experience. He’s been in the game for over 30 years, working in everything from TV to online content. That kind of know-how is pretty rare, and it’ll help the ABC connect better with Australians.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. His time at Nine wasn’t without its issues. A recent report highlighted some serious problems in their newsrooms, with many staffers facing bullying and harassment. That’s a tough shadow to step out from.
Hugh’s been busy since leaving Nine in 2021, co-founding a film and TV studio called Dreamchaser. Now, he’s set to start at the ABC in March, taking over from David Anderson, who left in August.
He’s excited about the role, saying he looks forward to leading discussions on important issues and delivering quality news. The ABC is a big deal in Australia, and he knows it’s a privilege to lead such a respected organization.
On top of that, the federal government is promising more stable funding for the ABC and SBS, which is good news for everyone involved. They’re getting an extra $83.1 million for the next couple of years, which should help keep things running smoothly.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland emphasized how crucial these broadcasters are for Australian culture and democracy. It’s all about providing top-notch news and entertainment for the public.