Stuart Mitchell takes a break from Mitchells

Stuart Mitchell, CEO of Mitchell Communications Group, Australia’s largest media buying operation, is stepping down for a six month sabbatical, the company has announced.  

It came in the company’s half yearly results, which reported that billings for the six months up to the end of 2009 were $661m, up 6% on the same period a year before. The announcement said:

“Upon announcing the half year result, Executive Chairman, Mr Harold Mitchell also advised that Mr Stuart Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer, after 18 years of service with the Company, would be taking a six month sabbatical. During this time, Mr Stuart Mitchell will continue to be a director of the company. Operationally, the company will be run by Mr Luke Littlefield, Chief Operating Officer and the executive management team overseen by the Executive Chairman, Mr Harold Mitchell.

“In commenting on business conditions since 31 December, Mr Harold Mitchell noted that the momentum experienced in November and December of 2009 has continued into the new calendar year.