What follows is the media statement the ABC released following the board’s decision to sack managing director Michelle Guthrie. We have chosen to republish it in full. The quotes from ABC chairman Justin Milne are particularly interesting.
The ABC Board has announced that Michelle Guthrie today departed from the role of Managing Director.
The decision follows discussions over several months that concluded when directors resolved that it was not in the best interests of the ABC for Ms Guthrie to continue to lead the organisation.
Chairman Justin Milne said the Board believed that new leadership would benefit the organisation, its dedicated employees, and the ABC’s audiences.
“In resolving to seek fresh leadership, the Board’s foremost consideration was the long-term interests of our own people and the millions of Australians who engage with ABC content every week,” Mr Milne said.
“This decision has been driven by our commitment to deliver the best possible outcomes for our loyal audiences and the best possible experience for our own people.
“We understand that transitions can be disruptive in the short-term. However, the ABC is fortunate to have an experienced and capable executive team that will provide continuity in the months ahead.
“The board wishes to thank Michelle for her contribution to the ABC. We are very grateful for all her hard work,” Mr Milne concluded.
The ABC Board has invited David Anderson to serve as Acting Managing Director until the role is filled on a permanent basis in coming months.
Mr Anderson is currently Director, Entertainment & Specialist, responsible for broadcast television networks and associated services, radio music networks, podcasts and specialist radio content. He has enjoyed a successful career in the broadcast television and media industry for nearly 30 years.
“I recognise the challenges involved in transitions of this kind but I am honoured to accept the Board’s invitation and look forward to working with our outstanding people to execute our strategy,” Mr Anderson said.
Succession planning receives continuous attention from the ABC Board. It has commenced a formal search process that will involve internal and external candidates. By law, Managing Directors are selected by the ABC Board independently of the Government and Opposition of the day.
I’ve noticed of late that the ABC has begun to fight back against the Governments and the Dark Lord.
Is it a coincidence that Guthrie is going at the time that the ABC is locked in a battle with Newscorpse?
regardless of Guthrie`s sacking the government is intent in doing murdochs directions to destroy the ABC and will sdimply replace heckle with jeckle.
Yes, just a small chapter in the long game of weakening, destabilising the ABC.
Even Turnbull with his supposed centre right politics, and public declaration he “loved” the ABC was very destructive. Apparently more than any he stood over management to try and “control” ABC political journalists, but suspect at least some of that was to do with personal vanity.
Politics are just so awful in this country at the moment. A “House of Cards” rip off being played out by (mostly male) wannabes and boguns.
Fascinating – ““The board wishes to thank Michelle for her contribution to the ABC. We are very grateful for all her hard work,” Mr Milne concluded“.
Any examples? Do tell.
Do.