Nine MD James Chessel steps down from publishing role
Nine’s managing director of publishing, James Chessell, is set to step down in the new year, taking on a new role leading the network’s engagement with Government and digital platform partners.
The announcement was made in a message sent to staff by CEO Mike Sneesby seen by Mumbrella, who outlined that executive editor of Tory Maguire would be taking on the role in an acting capacity from January.
Maguire is currently executive editor at Nine mastheads The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WA Today.
“Tory is an excellent executive who is already a key member of our Group Leadership Team. James will also be working with us to assist during the transitional period in the new year,” wrote Sneesby.
He said that Chessell’s experience and extensive knowledge of the media landscape would be invaluable to his new, unnamed role, heading up Nine’s engagement with digital platforms and government regulation.
“These areas are a high priority for our business – ensuring we have the right regulatory settings in place to support the future of local media and developing strong commercial partnerships with the global digital platforms.”
Reflecting on his time at Nine’s publishing business, Chessell said: “I’ve been very lucky to have such a capable and excellent group of people making me look good. Each of those people lead teams that support the incredible, independent journalism we produce.”
He went on to wish Maguire well in the transition of the MD of publishing role early next year.
“She has done more than most to transform the way we operate with a focus on quality and digital excellence and I can’t wait to see her do it on a bigger scale.”
Chessell was appointed as managing director of Fairfax Media metro publishing in 2016, ahead of the business’ 2018 merger with Nine. He was promoted to managing director of publishing in 2021.
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