Val Morgan boss Dan Hill exits
Val Morgan boss Dan Hill is leaving the business after seven years.
He will not be directly replaced, with managing director of cinema Guy Burbridge to run that side of the business, while outdoor MD Paul Butler will look after the other half.
Hill: Considering next move
Both will report in to Damian Keogh, CEO of Val Morgan owner Hoyts. Keogh is himself a former boss of Val Morgan, which is Australia’s biggest player in cinema advertising.
Hill’s exit comes after a disappointing year for cinema advertising, which saw a 9.7% decline in agency spend compared to 2017, according to Standard Media Index numbers released earlier this month.
In December, things were even worse, with agency spend down 38.1% compared to a year before, making cinema the worst performing medium.
In a press release from Val Morgan, Hill’s departure was described as a resignation rather than redundancy, although it suggested he did not have another role to go to, saying he would “take some time off before deciding on new future opportunities”.
In the press release, Keogh predicted a return to growth this year.
He said: “We are in for an incredible line up of blockbuster movies in 2019.
“As with all businesses we are constantly evaluating the resources and structure to maximise market effectiveness. While sad to see Dan depart, we have a strong executive team to carry the business forward.”
Keogh added: “If there was a Hall of Fame for Cinema advertising Dan would be in it.”
Hill’s statement said: “After a fantastic time at Val Morgan it’s time to pass the baton onto a new team. I leave very comfortable that Val Morgan is in a great place for future growth.”
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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Great innings from a great leader and a top guy.
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Well done Dan and all the best in the next chapter.
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One of the great operators and a brilliant individual – all the best Dan
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All the best Dan, you’ll be missed
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