This week Deborah Clay revealed her decision to step away from radio.
“I have resigned as national news director of Australian Radio Network and Sydney drive news presenter, to realise my long-term goal of writing a book and continuing my journey as a strategic leader,” Clay posted on social media.
“In what could be the most heart-warming farewell message from a boss you will ever read – ARN chief content officer Duncan Campbell shared a post to staff expressing his surprise and shock over our 10am teams meeting this week, [the meeting] in which I resigned. There’s never a dull moment in radio and our lively conversations often leave us challenging propositions and coming up with the next exciting idea for the business. We understand each other and have had a lot of fun exchanging views. Thank you.
“The reaction was similar from Derek Bargwanna, the KIIS content director, when I told him – complete shock. He thought I would be the last person in the office to resign. Thank you for your belief in my talent and the unwavering professional support.
“As for the news team, I will miss you. I have been a news director for nearly 11 years, the last six at ARN. The opportunity to work with diverse and gifted journalists around the country is a source of daily happiness and pride. Over the last two years the team has reported with accuracy and care about Covid-19, while providing local information for listeners across our powerhouse stations @kiis1065, @wsfm1017, @theedge961, @gold1043, @kiis1011, @973brisbane @4kqbrisbane @mixadelaide @cruiseadelaide, @96fmperth and digital station, Chemist Warehouse Remix. We have a special culture in the newsroom.
“I am finishing up at ARN on February 14 and then focus shifts to the book over the coming months. I know where I’m going and look forward to what 2022 will bring.”
Clay is a regular contributor to Seven’s Sunrise and the ABC’s The Drum and was recently awarded Best Journalist/Producer at the Women in Media Awards.
Clay moved from SCA to ARN in 2015. At the 2013 ACRAs Clay received the Brian White Memorial Award in recognition of sustained excellence in journalism.