Southern Cross Media Group (SCA) has appointed Heith Mackay-Cruise as chairman, marking the exit of Kerry Stokes and Michael Malone from the company’s board as the newly expanded media group enters its next phase.
The leadership transition, confirmed in an ASX announcement on Friday, sees Stokes step down after serving as interim chairman. Malone also departs following more than a decade of board involvement across Seven West Media and its related assets.
Stokes said the shift comes at a pivotal moment for the merged organisation.
“For more than 30 years, I’ve been involved at a direct level with the Seven Network. I’ve worked with the industry’s most gifted people delivering innovative news and entertainment content to Australian audiences,” he said.
“The newly merged organisation is an important part of the fabric of the Australian way of life. Our people will continue to deliver quality outcomes to our customers and our communities.”
Kerry Stokes
New chairman signals next chapter
Incoming chairman Mackay-Cruise paid tribute to Stokes’ legacy and role in reshaping the business.
“Kerry’s contribution to the media industry in Australia is unparalleled. On behalf of the Board, I gratefully acknowledge and thank Kerry for his contribution during his leadership tenure,” he said.
“His impact in bringing the SCA and Seven West assets together will be enduring. Our team is committed to harnessing the potential of that opportunity.”
Mackay-Cruise also acknowledged Malone’s role in advancing the company’s digital ambitions.
“I also thank Michael Malone, who steps down as a director of SCA today, having previously served as a director of Seven West Media for over 10 years. Michael has contributed significantly to our digital future,” he said.
Ownership and strategic continuity
Despite stepping down from the board, Stokes confirmed his family’s ongoing stake in the business.
“My family will remain a major shareholder in the group, and Ryan Stokes will continue to represent the family on the Board,” he said.
The leadership transition comes as Southern Cross Media Group consolidates its position as a major multiplatform media company. Its assets span television and audio, including the Seven Network, LiSTNR, and the Hit and Triple M radio networks.
Main image: Heith Mackay-Cruise