What it’s like to manage Joe Aston
Sean Aylmer reflects on managing controversial columnist Joe Aston, following the news of his departure from The Australian Financial Review last week
Joe Aston, the erstwhile Rear Window columnist was divisive, sometimes difficult to manage, controversial and at times, obstinate. He was also charming, a beautiful writer, relentless, smart and very hungry – all the stuff you want a journalist to be.
I managed Aston for several years at Fairfax and it wasn’t for the faint hearted. His decision last week to leave The Australian Financial Review after 12 years leaves a massive gap in the masthead. Joe has arguably been the best business gossip columnist in Australia. Ever. Period.
“Joe has arguably been the best business gossip columnist in Australia. Ever. Period.” What a claim to fame….
I look forward to following him wherever he pops up. He has kept me sane at times.