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Ten’s programming chief David Mott departs

david_mott_head_shotTen’s programming chief David Mott is leaving the company, the network has announced.

Speculation is likely to focus on Adam Boland, now at Seven, as a replacement for Mott. Boland is understood to be under contract at Seven until October. Another rumoured candidate is the programming director of Seven Melbourne, Graeme Hill.

However, Ten spokesman Neil Shoebridge told Mumbrella: “Both theories are totally wrong.”

Beverley McGarvey is to fill Mott’s role on an acting basis until a replacement is found.

In an interview at the beginning of the year, Mumbrella editor Tim Burrowes put to Mott the rumour that he might be replaced by Boland:

The announcement from Ten this morning:

Network Ten today announced the resignation of Chief Programming Officer David Mott.

“David has had an extraordinary career at Ten over the past 16 years,” Network Ten Chief Executive, James Warburton, said.

“He has been a fantastic asset for the network and we are sorry to see him go. David’s legacy at Ten includes landmark television programs such as MasterChef, Australian Idol, Rove Live, The Biggest Loser, Thank God You’re Here, The Project and Big Brother, and – more recently – Offspring, Puberty Blues, MasterChef All Stars and Bikie Wars: Brothers In Arms.”

Mr Mott said: “It’s a sad day when you say goodbye to friends and colleagues, and leave a place you hold so dear. But it’s a great day when you take stock on what has been achieved over 16 fantastic years.

“I am proud of the bold programming decisions we have made at Ten over that time, because without risk there is less chance of success.

“In a job where you live and die by the numbers, perhaps I’ve been luckier than most. It’s been a great ride, and I’ve loved every second of it. I leave behind a focused and committed creative team and I wish them all the best for the future.”

Beverley McGarvey continues as Network Ten’s Network Head of Programming and assumes Mr Mott’s responsibilities on an acting basis.

At the beginning of the year, Warburton used his first public appearance as CEO to back Mott, calling him ‘the best in the business’.

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