CEO Julian Clarke departs News Corp for second time: ‘the company is in good hands’
Clarke
Outgoing News Corp CEO Julian Clarke is officially finishing up with the publishing company today, with incoming CEO Peter Tonagh and executive chairman, Australasia Michael Miller officially taking over on Monday.
Clarke announced his intention to retire for the second time at the end of the year back in June, with News Corp announcing Tonagh and Miller’s appointments at the same time. The media veteran came out of retirement to take on the CEO role following the surprise resignation of Kim Williams in August 2013.
In an email to staff Clarke wrote: “For the two-plus years I’ve had the privilege of working with you, I leave in the knowledge that the company is is good hands.
“Both Peter and Michael will spearhead the company’s future path. As challenging as the media industry currently is, our company is well placed to build an even stronger business, which in turn creates opportunities for our staff.
“May I personally thank you for your contribution to the significant progress we’ve made in recent years and wish you and your families a safe and very happy Christmas.”
Under Clarke’s stewardship the company has pivoted towards a more digitally focused agenda, although print circulations have continued to fall, as evidenced by the Audit Bureau of Circulation figures released today.
While Tonagh and Miller may officially start on Monday, the pair have already made changes to the business including a restructure of its editorial reporting lines which saw veteran News Corp executive Campbell Reid lose editorial responsibility and moved to the position of director of corporate affairs and content innovation.
Miranda Ward
Linkedin