SBS content supremo Matt Campbell departs for Shine weeks after top job goes to outsider
SBS has seen one of its first major management defections since the surprise appointment of Michael Ebeid as the broadcaster’s new boss.
Matt Campbell, SBS’s director of television and online content, is to become the new MD of TV production behemoth Shine Australia and New Zealand.
Campbell joined SBS seven years ago as head of programming, and took on his larger role in 2006.
At the time of the appointment of Ebeid – previously the ABC’s director of corporate strategy and marketing – industry speculation suggested that senior SBS staff would be unhappy at an outsider being brought in over their heads.
In a statement, Ebeid said: “I’m disappointed to see Matt leave SBS after seven years and so much success but with his enviable track record of producing and acquiring great content for SBS, it’s not surprising a great offer to join Shine came his way.”
He added: “SBS will undertake a national and international search for Matt’s replacement in coming months.”
Campbell issued a comment saying: “I am thrilled to be joining Shine at this very important time of expansion.
“It’s bittersweet to be leaving SBS at such an exciting time for the network with Michael’s arrival and fantastic, innovative projects in the pipeline but the opportunity to join Shine Australia is a terrific opportunity. “I’m leaving one of the best jobs in the Australian television market. I know with Michael’s leadership and the energy he has brought to the job that SBS is well equipped to continue its success in the future.”
Campbell’s MD role follows Shine bosses Mark and Carl Fennessy taking on new international responsibilities.
Mark Fennessy said: “Matt is an outstanding executive who is highly respected both locally and internationally. His expertise across multiple platforms of content will be a significant asset to our business in Australia. We’re delighted to welcome him into the family at Shine.”
Big Shine shows currently in the works include The Renovators for Ten and talent quest The Voice for Nine. Junior MasterChef, The Biggest Loser, Australia’s Next Top Model and Dating in the Dark are also on Shine’s slate.
1.30pm update: Mumbrella understands that although there were a number of internal applications for the top job at SBS, Campbell was not one of them.
. I am thrilled to be joining Shine at this very important time of expansion.
Tim Burrowes founded Mumbrella in 2008. He worked on Mumbrella until 2021. At various points he was editor, content director and editor-at-large.
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Congratulations to Matt. SBS is a sinking ship, well done to him for getting out before it goes under.
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yes, congratulations to Matt as he is one of the main reasons SBS is a sinking ship. the rats always jump and float off to nibble on another piece of flotsam
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