WPP CEO Mark Read has responded to criticism from employees who were unhappy with the introduction of a global mandate to return to the office four days a week.
He told PRWeek UK: “I know for some people this is going to be a change, but we are going to introduce this new policy cooperatively. It doesn’t come in until April, and we’ll use that time to talk to our people about how to implement it carefully and pragmatically.
“We appreciate that many people have responsibilities such as dropping their kids at school or caring for an elderly relative, and we’re going to continue much of the flexibility we’ve experienced over the last few years,” Read said.
“That said, with many of our clients in the office three, four and increasingly five days a week, we think this is the right move for the long-term success of the company and people’s careers.”
An internal memo of the global mandate was sent to staff last week in which Read addressed the focus on the culture of WPP.
He said: “I believe that we do our best work when we are together in person. It’s easier to learn from each other, it’s a better way to mentor colleagues starting out in the industry, and it helps us win pitches as a truly integrated team.”
Read said that data from across the WPP agencies indicated higher levels of office attendance were associated with stronger employee engagement, improved client survey scores and better financial performance.
“For all these reasons, spending more time together is important to all of us, and we are making a change to help that happen. From the beginning of April this year, the expectation across WPP will be that most of us spend an average of four days a week in the office.”
He added that flexibility and trust will be maintained while approaching the transition to four days in office with “pragmatism and an understanding of people’s different circumstances.”
In response, concerned employees launched a Change.org petition against the global directive. Since its launch on 9 January, the petition, which is open for people outside the organisation to sign, has garnered more than 16,000 signatures.
The petition also included a short and anonymous survey asking responders about the effectiveness of returning to the office, the impact on growth and employee engagement.
Results from the survey, which had 1,300 responders, found 98% agreed that the four-day return-to-office mandate should be revoked. The survey also found that 76% strongly disagreed the mandate will support the long-term growth of WPP, while 77% associated extreme negativity with the impact of mandate across the WPP employee network and engagement levels.
Crucially, 58% strongly disagree and do not believe in Read’s vision and effectiveness, indicating a sense of waning confidence in the CEO among those who answered the survey.
See also:
WPP enforces global return to office policy: Staff required on-site 4 days a week
WPP staff fight back: 10,000 sign petition against mandatory office return
WPP addresses staff backlash over office return policy
Holding companies not following WPP’s four-day work week mandate
–
Top image: Mark Read
Meta’s latest decision to cut 5% of its global workforce—around 3,600 jobs—has sent shockwaves through the tech world. It’s part of CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s push to sharpen the company’s focus for what he’s calling an “intense year.” But what does all this mean for Australia’s marketers and advertisers? Let’s break it down.
In a memo to staff, Zuckerberg made it clear he’s raising the bar. Underperformers are being moved on faster than usual, with plans to refill those positions later this year. This shift, according to Zuckerberg, is about ensuring Meta has what he describes as “the strongest talent” to focus on priorities like artificial intelligence, smart glasses, and the future of social media. But this isn’t just about talent; it’s part of a broader overhaul that’s seen Meta scale back its diversity programs, scrap third-party fact-checkers, and soften its rules around hateful conduct. While these moves are being framed as efficiency measures, they’ve sparked concern about what they might mean for content safety and inclusivity. Mediaweek has reached out to Meta for comment on how these changes could impact Australian operations.
For Australian marketers, Meta’s platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—are integral to campaigns of all shapes and sizes. From local cafes promoting daily specials to large-scale global launches, these platforms play a massive role in how businesses connect with their audiences. That’s why these changes are worth paying attention to. Scrapping third-party fact-checkers raises questions about how misinformation might spread unchecked, creating risks for brands whose ads could appear alongside misleading or harmful content. It’s a scenario no marketer wants to deal with, especially in an environment where trust and credibility are so crucial.
That said, there are opportunities too. Meta’s focus on AI and innovation could mean new tools for advertisers to reach audiences more effectively. AI-driven campaign creation and analytics might take some of the guesswork out of digital marketing, helping brands refine their strategies and deliver more personalised experiences. But with such rapid shifts, businesses will need to stay agile to make the most of these tools while avoiding potential pitfalls.
Zuckerberg has positioned these changes as part of Meta’s “year of efficiency,” which now seems to be rolling over into 2025. While the rhetoric focuses on streamlining and innovation, the reality is that Australian marketers need to be ready for a period of uncertainty.
For the past decade, John Aiken has been helping Australians build lasting relationships as the resident clinical psychologist on Married At First Sight.
The show features a team of experts, including Aiken, who pair singles to ‘marry’ each other.
Viewers then follow the couples as they navigate the complexities of married life after meeting as they say their vows.
Marketed worldwide as a relationship ‘experiment’, the series claims to want to spark discussions about behaviour – what’s appropriate and what’s not.
However, the show’s integrity has come under scrutiny. Writing in The Sydney Morning Herald, Thomas Mitchell questioned whether Married At First Sight is still truly about finding love.
The MAFS cast frequently become the stars of gossip websites, social media and weekly magazines while on and off-screen scandals become front page news as fights and walk-outs feature heavily.
Married At First Sight cast, 2025
But Aiken strongly disagrees with the criticism, arguing that critics are missing the point.
“They’re viewing it as just a reality show rather than as something educational or meaningful,” Aiken told Mediaweek. “It may be voyeuristic, but I absolutely believe people take a lot away from it.”
Aiken shared that the most rewarding feedback comes from everyday Australians. “People stop me on the street to say what they’ve learned from the show and how it’s inspired them to do things differently,” he said.
The former cricketer-turned-relationship expert believes the show offers valuable lessons by demonstrating “what not to do” in relationships.
“As a psychologist, you’re often taught the 10 things that make a happy relationship,” he explained. “But with MAFS, we learn the 10 things you absolutely shouldn’t do if you want to avoid destroying your relationship. It’s a very practical way of learning.”
After 11 seasons in the hot seat, Aiken’s enthusiasm remains strong. “This role fits my personality perfectly. I’m practical, direct, and focused on helping people make real changes quickly. MAFS gives me the platform to deliver that message,” he said.
Aiken, along with fellow relationship expert Mel Schilling, and clinical sexologist Alessandra Rampolla, will once again guide 20 couples as they take the plunge and say “I do” to a stranger when the 2025 season of MAFS kicks off on Monday, 27 January, at 7.30 pm on Nine and 9Now.
Pictured: John Aiken and MAFS cast, 2025.
Jimmy & Nath (Jimmy Smith and Nathan Roye) will officially take over 2DayFM Breakfast in 2025, joined by Emma Chow. The new trio hits the airwaves on Monday, 20 January.
The network is promising the group will deliver “humour, energy, and fresh perspectives for Sydney mornings”.
Jimmy & Nath, known for their chemistry and quick wit, bring a decade of radio experience, including leading Hobart’s Hit100.9 Breakfast to #1 and hosting national Weekend Breakfast and Nights.
Chow, a familiar voice in Sydney, joins after over a decade on Mike E & Emma and her recent 2DayFM Mornings stint, adding her sharp and relatable charm.
The announcement comes just a day after Chow announced she was splitting with her long-term on-air partner, Mike E (Michael Etheridge).
Of her new role, Chow said: “To say this is a dream come true is an understatement! I set my alarm to listen to 2DayFM breakfast every morning before school when I was a kid, so this all feels very surreal.”
SCA chief content officer Dave Cameron called the lineup a “much-needed energy boost” that’s already generating interest from commercial partners.
“We’re really pumped about the new shape and approach that 2DayFM is beginning to take this year to do something different in Sydney,” he said.
The show will air weekdays from 6am-9am on 2DayFM and can also be streamed on LiSTNR.
Picture: Jimmy Smith, Emma Chow and Nathan Roye.
Network 10 is reworking The Project’s Friday lineup, slimming the panel to three and confirming comedian Michael Hing won’t return next year. Taking the reins from late February are Rove McManus, Georgie Tunny, and Susie Youssef.
As reported by Kyle Laidlaw in TV Blackbox, Fridays are traditionally The Project’s weakest ratings night -thanks to things like live sports and social distractions.
The shake-up looks to trim costs and shift focus, with McManus, whose production company owns the format, reportedly steering the show toward lighter, more entertaining fare.
When asked by Mediaweek, Network 10 declined to confirm if cost-cutting led to Michael Hing’s departure, instead issuing a statement praising the new lineup and thanking Hing: “We’ve loved Michael Hing’s quick wit and hosting hijinks on The Project over the past two years.”
Rove McManus, Georgie Tunny and Myf Warhurst.
Hing, meanwhile, took to social media saying he made the decision to “step back” from his role due to a upcoming packed touring schedule.
He wrote: “Unlike last year (when I didn’t do a tour), this year I’m not eagerly (terrifiedly) awaiting the birth of our first child. And now that we have said child, I’m embarking on the biggest tour I’ve ever done: Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney (not exactly a big effort) and Newcastle.
“I should mention as well, with the size of the tour, and my ongoing commitment to not being entirely absent from the baby’s life, I’m going to take a step back from being on The Project next year.”
The network added that it has left the door open for Hing to return: “We wish Michael every success for his nationwide stand-up tour and look forward to welcoming him back to the desk between gigs in 2025.”
Pictured: Michael Hing
Newsmax, the conservative news network said to be a favourite of Donald Trump, appears to have nabbed another big name to its lineup ahead of its launch Down Under.
Former Sky News Australia host Erin Molan, who is currently in New York, has reportedly signed a contract to host her own show on the platform.
The channel is set to replace the streaming channel ADH-TV which was co-founded by Brett Lyddon and led by former Seven News executive Jason Morrison.
The right-wing streaming platform gained traction after high-profile commentator Alan Jones, now facing serious allegations, joined following his exit from Sky News Australia.
Newsmax launched its local website yesterday, with ADH-TV’s social media accounts rebranding to Newsmax Australia. However, a formal launch date and further talent announcements remain under wraps.
Newsmax already has several Australian voices in its lineup, including journalist Sarah Williamson, Chris Smith and Daisy Cousens. known for her bold takes on U.S. politics and Donald Trump, contributing to the network from the States.
Daily Mail Australia reports the platform’s boss and creator, Christopher Ruddy will officially announce the US cable network’s Australian expansion at an exclusive event on Friday, hosted in Washington, DC, to mark Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration.
Pictured: Erin Molan
Atlassian’s venture capital arm has invested in a $US180 million ($290 million) Series D round for Synthesia, a UK-based start-up that creates AI avatars for workplace communications.
Synthesia’s platform allows users to create AI-generated videos for training, marketing, and customer support, transforming scripts, PowerPoint slides, or datasets into polished content.
The funding round values the seven-year-old company at $US2.1 billion, making it Britain’s most valuable generative AI business.
With over 1 million users across 60,000 clients – including most Fortune 500 companies – the company’s London-based co-founder and CEO, Victor Riparbelli, said the latest fundraising could lead the company to Australia, a key target market.
Synthisia and its AI avatars.
“It’s hard to service these markets effectively from afar, so we’re investing in boots on the ground,” he said.
The pitch? Helping companies bridge language barriers through automated translation and multilingual avatars, unlocking global potential for businesses currently isolated in English-speaking markets.
CEO of Evolved.ai, Dr Michael Kollo, who is not involved in the company has studied the premise and explained the concept to Mediaweek: “The base idea is that when a CEO or an executive is doing a corporate communication, for example, when they are telling staff about a new initiative or something that’s not easy to say, like layoffs, they are often quite scripted in what they’re saying and how they’re saying it.
“So why not automate it? Why not create an avatar that looks like you, with your voice, and from a Zoom call or remote call perspective, looks similar to you,? Then you’re able to just rattle off the information you need, which might be quite legal or formal or controlled anyway, and everybody will be fine with that.”
CEO of Evolved AI Dr Michael Kollo.
For Riparbelli and the rest of the team at Synthesia, it is Australia’s remoteness that makes us such an appealing potential market.
“There’s significant potential in English-speaking markets like the US, UK, and Australia to help businesses expand globally, where speaking multiple languages is essential,” he said.
When pressed on issues of ethics and whether or not using an avatar to fire someone was a ‘good look’ for a company, Dr Kollo said he believes most people would understand the difference between “authentic and engaging communication” and an automated one.
Another Synthesia AI offering.
“If you think about it, when we’re being told by HR about policies or a business update business you don’t expect me two way conversation,” he said. “You don’t expect anything more.”
He went on to add that we are “already at the point where you know the content you get from CEOs about certain topics are very watered down and very muted and sterilised. So this idea of ‘sterilised communication’ will become the realm of AI and automation, non authenticity, non uniqueness.”
Atlassian was joined by NEA, WiL (World Innovation Lab), and PSP Growth in backing Synthesia’s latest funding round, with early supporters GV and MMC Ventures also chipping in.
While Australia is on the company’s radar, Riparbelli admitted a local office isn’t imminent. Synthesia already boasts a global team of over 400 across cities like London, New York, Copenhagen, and Zurich.
Pictured: Synthesia AI
Poem has won the PR account for the cult charcoal chicken institution, El Jannah.
The creative comms agency will manage the brand’s publicity retainer, and lead earned creative campaigns across integrated channels in 2025.
Poem will manage upcoming launches, announcements, earned creative campaigns, culture-led social, influencer content and publicity for over 14+ new store openings.
Poem’s first work has been to help launch El Jannah’s first-ever breakfast menu, available at select stores in New South Wales and Victoria with plans to expand the offering in the coming months to more stores. The menu has something for everyone’s taste and highlights Kaki Charcoal Breakfast Sandwiches, golden-brown sesame pockets grilled over charcoal and packed with authentic flavours.
El Jannah will also be visible at this year’s Australian Open as part of the food truck culinary offering, serving up their iconic crispy chicken burger and fattoush salad with pomegranate molasses and crunchy fried bread.
“Partnering with Poem marks a bold new chapter for El Jannah as we continue to push boundaries and bring our iconic charcoal chicken and garlic sauce experience to more Australians than ever before,” Adam Issa, El Jannah’s head of marketing. said.
“2025 is set to be a MASSIVE year for us, with exciting new store openings across the eastern seaboard, the launch of our first-ever breakfast menu, and unforgettable activations like the Australian Open. Poem’s deep understanding of our culture will help us stay true to our roots while turning up the heat in the industry. Together, we’re set to deliver bold, unforgettable moments that keep Australia coming back for more.”
Rhania Farah, Poem’s general manager, said: “El Jannah is the wildcard in a cluttered market of chicken brands, and we’re thrilled to fuel its growth and fame. With a cult following and incredible stories to tell, we can’t wait to dial up the excitement with bold creative campaigns and a dynamic culture-led approach to comms that celebrates its iconic status and unforgettable flavours.
“El Jannah is the ultimate ‘if you know, you know’ brand, and if you don’t… that’s where we come in! Our mission is to get more Aussie taste buds savouring the authentic flavours of Lebanese charcoal chicken and cuisine.”
El Jannah joins Poem’s roster of consumer clients including Sony Interactive Entertainment (PlayStation), Google, Nespresso, Place Making New South Wales, Sonos, Tourism Australia and Uber.
Andy Murray is the latest famous face to partner with Uber Eats in its latest campaign, “Get Almost, Almost Anything, Maybe Even Andy Murray”, via creative agency Special.
The campaign sees Uber Eats delivery people on a quest to catch and deliver the tennis champion to a customer in an epic (and comedic) series of chase films.
In the launch film, Murray answers the door of his Melbourne hotel room to find two delivery people instructing the dual Olympic gold medalist to “Get in the bag.”
Mild-mannered Murray goes into action hero mode, turning somersaults and crashing through a second-floor window as he is chased through his hotel and the streets of Melbourne with the determined delivery people in hot pursuit.
The narrative – and tension – builds over the two weeks of the campaign as an increasingly dishevelled Murray is pursued through three hero films, hijacking promos, and traffic reports on Nine properties.
The stage is set for an exciting finish to the chase – with all to be revealed in a 45-second finale launching on the 23 January.
Screenshot
“Having the opportunity to work with an icon of the sport is one thing, but having him agree to recast himself in such an unexpected and legendary way is a powerful tool to both entertain and educate Aussies about the Uber Eats mission of getting them almost anything across the retail spectrum,” Channa Goonasekara, head of brand, Uber ANZ, said.
“While we can’t get Andy Murray at scale, we’re already delivering pet food, pawpaws and passionfruit seltzers. Andy is the perfect person to remind people of our increased appeal as the delivery platform for almost anything.”
James Sexton, Special creative director, said: “Treating tennis legend Andy Murray like a burrito and adding him to the app is a great expression of Uber Eats mission to get Australia almost, almost anything, and opens people’s minds to all the possible things we might deliver.”
Harry Neville-Towle, Special creative director, added: “We thought that Andy’s hip injury would make him easy to catch, but it turns out he’s still pretty nimble. We just hope we get our hands on him before the end of week two, otherwise we might be fired.”
The sequence of three hero films (a 30-second launch film, 30-second chase film and 45-second finale), will run on broadcast TV and BVOD, with two 15-second disruptive ‘hijacks’ of Nine Network properties interrupting MAFS promos and NTN Traffic Reports.
The campaign will also running across OOH, radio, socials including TikTok, YouTube, Andy Murray’s social channels, and Uber Eats owned channels, including in-app, where customers can ‘order Andy Murray’ and add him to their cart.
CREDITS
Uber Eats
Senior Director, Head of International Marketing: Lucinda Barlow
Director Of Marketing, APAC: Andy Morley
Head of Marketing, ANZ: Nicole Bardsley
Brand Lead, ANZ: Channa Goonasekara
Brand Marketing Manager: Rebecca Macciolli
Brand Marketing Associate: Holly Dover
Global Executive Creative Director: Danielle Hawley
APAC Creative Director: Adam Ledbury
Senior Manager, Communications ANZ: Nick Vindin
Strategy: Josh Pickstone, Tom Walter
Media Lead ANZ: Rob Maddison
Talent and Legal: Cameron Louglin, Jessica Shao
Special
Partners/CEO: Lindsey Evans
Partners/CCO: Julian Schreiber & Tom Martin
Creative Directors: James Sexton & Harry Neville-Towle
Creatives: Jack Wall & Phil Harkness
Creatives: Heidi Rabbitts, Eliza Smith, Mia McGuire
Managing Director: Lauren Portelli
Team Lead: Laura Little
Business Directors: Charlie Keeble, Megan McIntosh
Head of Strategy: Celia Garforth
Strategy Director: Kellie Box, JJ Bender
Head Of Film Production: Sevda Cemo
Executive Producers: Sophia Tubby, Christina Wilmot
Production Coordinator: Ada Tuna
Head Of Stills: Nick Lilley
Digital Producer: Sharon Gray
Head Of Design: Adam Shear
Design Director: Dan Jones
Designer: Maggie Webster
Production Company: Finch
Director – Christopher Riggert
Executive Producer – Corey Esse
Producer – Caroline David
DOP – Tim Tregoning
Production Designer – Lucinda Thomson
Edit: Arc
Editor – Jack Hutchings
Producer – Sally Quade
Post Production: Fin Design + Effects
VFX Supervisor: Mikey Brown
VFX Producer: Emily Newbould
Colourist: Fergus Rotherham
Sound: Rumble Studios
Partner/Creative Director: Anthony Aston
Executive Producer: Michael Gie
Composition: Soundtree
Composer – Ben Jones
Producer – Neil Athale
Photography
Production Company: Chee Productions
Photographer: Damian Bennett
Retouching: Cream
Channel 9 Hijacks
Production Company: Powered Studios
Sound Studio: Squeak E. Clean
Social campaign
Director/DOP: Charles Grant
Editor: Robin Sung
Media Agency: EssenceMediacom
Retail Agency: Hatched
Mediaweek’s Media Movers charts the biggest people moves in the industry recently.
Amanda Laing
Nine has appointed Amanda Laing as managing director of the streaming and broadcast division, bringing together Stan, 9Now, Broadcast Television, and Radio, as the group accelerates its strategic transformation with an operating model reset and a new executive team.
Laing brings with her a strong background in television, streaming, digital, print and video-on-demand as well as expertise in commercial strategies and partnerships, business transformation, sports and entertainment content and rights, and mergers and acquisitions.
The restructure also sees Nine chief marketing officer Liana Dubois and Stan chief executive Martin Kugeler leave the company as it streamlines its business into three divisions: publishing, broadcast and marketplaces.
Paramount executive James Boyce is to join Nine as head of public affairs.
Sydney’s 2DAY FM has axed its networked weekend breakfast show, leading to speculation about a potential breakfast slot shake-up.
Emma Chow, co-host of the Mike E & Emma Show, confirmed the duo’s split in a heartfelt social media post, announcing, “After almost 14 years, the Mike E & Emma journey has come to an end.”
Listeners last heard the pair in December, marking the final broadcast of their national weekend breakfast program.
Michael Stephenson
Nine’s chief sales officer Michael Stephenson has resigned from the role he held for almost a decade, with Nine executive Matt James appointed to the role on an interim basis.
Stephenson was a member of Nine’s Group Leadership Team, with accountability for the company’s advertising revenue across its Total Television, Total Publishing and Total Audio assets.
ARN Media has appointed Michael Stephenson as its chief operating officer (COO), commencing in Q1 2025.
In his most recent role as chief sales officer at Nine Entertainment Co., Stephenson spearheaded the company’s ‘Total Media’ strategy across its Total Television, Total Publishing, and Total Audio divisions.
He was instrumental in the integration of Nine, Fairfax, and Macquarie Radio following their mergers in 2018 and played a pivotal role in the development of VOZ and VOZ streaming, establishing an advanced trading currency for Total Television.
Hugh Marks, one of Australia’s most prominent media executives, has been appointed the new managing director of the ABC, with his term beginning on 10 March 2025.
The appointment, revealed by ABC chair Kim Williams AM, follows a unanimous decision by the ABC Board after an extensive global search.
Marks, who has over 30 years of experience spanning content production, programming, and distribution across television, radio, and digital platforms, is set to lead the national broadcaster into a new era of innovation and audience engagement.
Snap Inc. has appointed Ryan Ferguson as managing director for Australia and New Zealand. He replaces Tony Keusgen, who exited the company after over a year in the role.
Ferguson joined the company as head of sales in July after more than 16 years at Google, where he held various senior leadership roles.
Hugh Gurney, Joe Sibley, Tara Ford and Barbara Humphries
Droga5 Melbourne, part of Accenture Song, has promoted Hugh Gurney and Joe Sibley as executive creative director roles to lead creativity at the creative agency.
Gurney and Sibley have helped create some of Australia’s best-known and awarded work, including Weather Anything for Macpac, Enter Asahi for Asahi Super Dry, The Greatest for Aussie Beef, You’re Good for ahm, England Bitter for VB, Camp Pain and EOFY WFH $ALE for BCF and Deals you didn’t see coming and Hello Christmas for Telstra.
The duo will report to Tara Ford, chief creative officer of Droga5 Australia and Accenture Song APAC. They will work closely with Milla McPhee, chief strategy officer of Droga5 Australia and Matt Michael, CEO of Droga5 ANZ, as part of the continued move towards a more national approach.
TBWA\Melbourne has promoted Kiefer Casamore to executive general manager and Eloise Liley to chief strategy officer.
Both roles have been elevated to join the Executive Leadership Team of CEO Kimberlee Wells, managing director Ricci Meldrum, CFO Emma Guthridge, and CCO Paul Reardon, who have been leading the agency together for over 12 years.
The creative agency’s promotions come off the back of a strong year of growth for TBWA, which recently added high-profile accounts, including the Department of Defence and Kraft Heinz to its roster.
Omnicom Media Group (OMG), the media services division of Omnicom (NYSE: OMC), has appointed Kristiaan Kroon as chief operating officer (COO) of OMG Australia.
The newly established role signals a strategic move to bolster the group’s growth and transformation capabilities.
Previously serving as OMG Australia’s CIO for eight years, Kroon will now oversee the leadership team and drive the next chapter of growth for OMG’s portfolio, which includes agencies OMD, PHD, and Hearts & Science. His appointment is effective immediately and comes as OMG ANZ CEO Peter Horgan prepares to step down in 2025.
Lisa Muxworthy
Lisa Muxworthy has been appointed to the newly created role of head of growth content at Nine’s metro mastheads.
Muxworthy, who drove record numbers at news.com.au during her four years as editor-in-chief, will oversee growth content at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, Brisbane Times and WAtoday.
Muxworthy will take responsibility for a new Growth Content reporting.
Paul Blackburn is leaving News Corp Australia as director of commercial data and eCommerce.
He took to LinkedIn on Friday and said: “After 12.5 Incredible Years, It’s Time for the Next Chapter”
Blackburn reflected on his “extraordinary” time with News Corp and said: “This company has given me so much—opportunities to grow, challenges to tackle, and the privilege of working with some of the most talented and inspiring people I’ve ever met.
Michael Carrington, Bluey creator retires
Michael Carrington, the executive who championed the global children’s phenomenon Bluey, has announced his retirement.
He has had a remarkable career spanning over thirty years and is known as one of the most knowledgeable leaders in the industry. His influence reshaped children’s programming in Australia and internationally.
The chair of the ABC, Kim Williams AM, has announced the resignation of Peter Tonagh from the ABC Board, effective immediately.
Tonagh’s resignation was formally submitted to the Governor General, Sam Mostyn AC. His departure also marks the conclusion of his tenure as deputy chair, a role he has held since November 2021.
Tonagh has since been appointed as an independent non-executive director at Nine Entertainment Co. He has held several key roles during his time at both News Corp Australia and Foxtel, including serving as CEO. He is currently the chair of Quantium, Australia’s leading data and analytics company, as well as GTN Limited, Bus Stop Films, and Honey Insurance.
AKQA has appointed Tara McKenty as executive creative director, strengthening the agency’s leadership team as it continues its integration with whiteGREY.
In her role, McKenty will collaborate closely with AKQA Australia’s senior leadership team, including Tim Devine, executive creative director, Iona Macgregor, chief strategy officer, and Justine Leong, general manager Sydney, to continue driving excellence and growth within the region.
Sam Hegg
Sam Hegg is joining Bunnings as head of retail media.
He joins the household and hardware company from Redworks and Coles 360, where he was head of strategy and planning for almost three years.
Hegg shared the news in a LinkedIn post; he wrote: “Excited to announce that I started at Bunnings this week, joining the iconic business as head of retail media. Such a great opportunity to work with Justine Mills (Bunnings’ general manager marketing) and the team to build something really compelling for brands.
Newsmax, the conservative news network said to be a favourite of Donald Trump, appears to have nabbed another big name to its lineup ahead of its launch Down Under.
Former Sky News Australia host Erin Molan, who is currently in New York, has reportedly signed a contract to host her own show on the platform.
Stacey Knox
The Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA) has appointed Stacey Knox, a seasoned marketer with experience at Coca-Cola, Subaru, and News Corp, as its new member engagement and events director.
Knox’s focus will be on enhancing member engagement and delivering increased value to the AANA community.
The Australian Radio Network (ARN) and GOLD104.3 have appointed Sarah Juchima (formerly Faour) as show director of The Christian O’Connell Show.
Juchima brings a powerhouse of experience to the newly created role, with a remarkable career that has seen her contribute to some of Australia’s well-loved radio programs, including Hughesy & Kate and The Hot Breakfast.
Her time abroad in New York further elevated her expertise, where she served as senior producer and showrunner for The Howard Stern Show, one of the world’s most iconic radio programs. Most recently, Sarah was a senior show producer on The Front Bar, further solidifying her reputation as a top-tier talent in the industry.
Orange Line has appointed Brian Collins as head of growth to oversee the global expansion of its innovative product offerings, with a strong focus on scaling in the United States.
Collins brings 14 years of experience in digital strategy and growth marketing to the role, excelling in securing global accounts, scaling teams and driving revenue.
His role will focus on identifying growth opportunities, building new business and enhancing Orange Line’s presence across international markets. Collins will report to general manager Aishling Farrell.
Debra Berman, Jack Byrne, Troy Townsend, Jonathan Waecker
Zitcha has appointed Debra Berman and Jonathan Waecker to senior advisor positions as the Australian retail media platform continues its global expansion.
Berman and Waecker bring their extensive international expertise across retail, media, consumer goods, marketing, and technology to support Zitcha’s rapid expansion into the US and other key markets, driving Zitcha’s mission to build a world-class adaptive retail media platform that works for the total retail business, from marketers to merchants.
After eight years with the ABC and two years as the voice of 702 ABC Radio Sydney Mornings, Sarah Macdonald officially signed off Friday morning, marking the end of an era for one of Sydney’s most beloved broadcasters.
Macdonald joined Emma Crowe on air for a heartfelt farewell, sharing her gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received since the news broke earlier this month that her contract would not be renewed.
The announcement, made in late November as part of a broader programming shake-up at the ABC, included changes affecting several other on-air roles.
Hamish Macdonald
Just mere minutes after Mediaweek had announced whispers that Hamish Macdonald would be taking over the Mornings program on 702 ABC Radio Sydney in 2025, Aunty confirmed the news.
His appointment follows the axing of former host Sarah Macdonald (no relation). Hamish, 43, will present the show from Monday to Thursday, with his first shift starting next Monday.
The Australian Financial Review’s lifestyle coverage has been strengthened with four key appointments. Lauren Sams will take the reins as editor of Fin Magazine, the Financial Review’s seasonal glossy publication.
Sams, who has been the Financial Review’s fashion editor since joining the masthead in 2019, will replace Matthew Drummond. Drummond will continue as editor of the monthly AFR Magazine.
Anna McCooe has been appointed senior travel writer at the Financial Review. The experienced travel journalist will take on a newly created role overseeing travel content across the masthead, including afr.com, the daily newspaper, Life & Leisure, AFR Magazine, and Fin Magazine.
Jessica Beresford will step into the role of associate editor of Life & Leisure. Beresford joins the Financial Review’s weekly lifestyle insert from the Financial Times, where she served as a contributing editor and fashion features editor for its luxury glossy, HTSI.
Additionally, Maria Shollenbarger will contribute a regular travel column for AFR Magazine. Alongside her contributions to both AFR Magazine and Fin Magazine, Shollenbarger is the travel editor for HTSI at the Financial Times.
Sarah Waladan
The Association for Data-Driven Marketing and Advertising (ADMA) has appointed leading legal, policy and regulatory affairs expert Sarah Waladan as its new head of regulatory and advocacy.
She takes over from Sarla Fernando, who has moved to a customer communications advisory role at the Commonwealth Bank and will remain a member of the ADMA Regulatory and Advocacy Working Group (ARAWG).
Jessica Hunter, Head of The Brag Media, has left the company. Hunter, who was appointed to the role in June 2024, was formerly General Manager of Partnerships at the company where she was tasked with ensuring the business continued to deliver outstanding results for client partners.
She came to The Brag Media from the Woolworths Group’s media business, Cartology.
Mediaweek is thrilled to announce the appointment of Natasha Lee as a journalist, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for media to Australia’s leading authority on the media landscape.
With over 20 years in the industry, Lee’s career is a testament to her deep commitment to journalism and storytelling.
Hailing from a family of journalists, she began her career at just 16 as an editorial assistant for The Daily Telegraph. She quickly moved up the ranks, completing her cadetship at 2SM before expanding her expertise across digital platforms and television.
Melbourne Social Co (MSC) has appointed Rosie Chong as its new social content manager.
Chong has built her reputation as one of Australia’s top LinkedIn creators and is known for her innovative approach to social content and her ability to craft impactful campaigns that drive engagement and connection.
Leanne Glamuzina
Leanne Glamuzina has been appointed as oOh!media’s head of marketing.
She joins the out of home media company from Boomtown, where she was marketing lead. She has also worked in senior marketing roles at Koala and was group marketing director at Nova Entertainment.
2GB is excited to welcome Adam Hawse as the new host of Wide World of Sports, starting today, 16 December 2024.
Hawse is already a familiar voice to 2GB listeners, having delivered the afternoon sports news in the newsroom and regularly stepping in as fill-in host for Wide World of Sports.
With over 25 years of experience in the media, Hawse’s passion for sport has taken him to some of the industry’s biggest stages, including NRL Grand Finals, State of Origin games, and Kangaroos overseas tours.
Mix102.3 has revealed Hayley Pearson will join Max Burford as co-host for the breakfast show in 2025, which will be known as Hayley & Max in the Morning.
The show will debut on 20 January 2025, from 6am to 9am, and bring together Pearson and Burford, who have committed to giving the people of Adelaide a whole lot of fun and heart.
Bella Varelis
7Bravo, the free-to-air and digital partnership between NBCUniversal International Networks & Direct-to-Consumer and the Seven Network, today announced Australian television personality Bella Varelis as the channel’s new local host and face of iconic Live From E! red carpet events in Australia.
Having been a “Friend of 7Bravo” since February 2023 and familiar face on Australian television, Varelis will now be front and centre at Australia’s biggest awards shows and fashion events, showcasing all the red-carpet glamour and hosting celebrity interviews with Live From E! on 7Bravo.
She will also continue to bring audiences trusted beauty tips and tricks with her digital mini-series Bella Beauty.
In Australia’s ever-evolving advertising landscape, 2024 was a tipping point.
Despite the abandonment of the cookie phase-out, the pressure to adopt first-party data strategies will only amplify in 2025 driven by continued changes in consumer preferences, platforms, and legislative behaviour.
We know that first-party data offers businesses an unparalleled opportunity to connect with their customers, however, to fully unlock its potential, brands need to overcome challenges related to data management, privacy compliance, and effective collaboration.
The question isn’t whether first-party data will reshape advertising strategies—it’s how effectively businesses can harness its potential while navigating new challenges.
In Australia, where consumers are both digitally connected and privacy-aware, first-party data offers brands the ability to craft personalised, meaningful interactions. This shift is not merely a technical adjustment; it is a fundamental realignment of how businesses engage with their audiences.
With Aussie consumers increasingly asserting their right to control their personal data, demanding both privacy and security, one of the most pressing challenges in 2025 will be balancing personalisation with privacy.
The takeaway for Aussie advertisers is clear: balance the need for increasing personalisation in marketing strategies with the use of first-party data to protect consumer privacy. Understanding and respecting these demands will be imperative for the landscape in the coming year.
Advertising strategies that demonstrate an organisation’s ability to personalize touchpoints while safeguarding consumers’ data will not only drive engagement, but also an opportunity to build meaningful, trustworthy long-term relationships.
One of the most exciting shifts in first-party data is the proliferation of secure collaboration tools. While first-party data is incredibly valuable, its potential is often limited to what a single organisation can collect. Data collaboration can help change the game by enabling brands to deepen their understanding by teaming up with trusted partners, which in turns powers personalisation.
For example, a retailer might partner with a payment provider or a loyalty program to gain deeper insights into shared customers, allowing them to tailor and provide holistic marketing messages.
Using tools like data clean rooms, this collaboration can happen in a secure environment, ensuring sensitive information stays protected while unlocking meaningful insights. The result? Smarter targeting, more effective campaigns, and better customer experiences.
By tapping into collaboration practices and activating on these insights, brands can enhance consumer value at every stage—from campaign planning to performance measurement. These partnerships bridge knowledge gaps, safely connecting your first-party data with another organisation’s data to create a more complete picture of your audience.
Through data collaboration, in conjunction with partners that share your focus on consumer privacy and ethical treatment of data, the only limits that exist are the new partnerships that you can think of. Through using innovative tools that power collaboration while protecting data, every ethical partner is a potential source of new insights, and driver of new value for the customer journey. Every part of the marketing cycle – from finding your audiences to measuring your returns – will benefit.
As we approach the new year, one thing is certain: first-party data holds the future of advertising, and is a requisite foundation for all future-forward marketers. While first-party data will be key to strengthening advertising strategies, it alone won’t be enough to lead successful campaigns. Marketers must be thinking of new ways to build on this data, power more insights, and drive more effective marketing.
Critically, collaboration that respects consumer privacy helps strengthen your company’s results, helping provide an exponential lift for your data-driven investments in today’s challenging climate.
–
Top image: Mel Hoptman
Budget Direct insurance sleuths Sarge, Jacs and Chief return for the latest instalment of the insurance provider’s Insurance Solved campaign platform via 303 MullenLowe.
Now live across the country, the new ‘Meteoric Mayhem’ campaign uses the highly engaging style that the brand is renowned for to remind customers that Budget Direct has insurance solved and celebrates its recent win of Canstar’s Insurer of the Year Award, 2025.
“We know that Australians look forward to the adventures of Budget Direct’s much-loved characters and the latest piece is sure to deliver on public expectation,” Bart Pawlak, 303 MullenLowe Sydney chief creative officer, said.
“No matter how unlikely a giant meteor careening through our streets may seem, it’s perfectly in-step with the brand’s personality. Not to mention a pretty impactful way to deliver its long-standing positioning,” Pawlak added.
Budget Direct and 303 MullenLowe’s partnership goes back 10 years and the commitment to a long-term platform was rewarded recently at the hotly contested 2024 Australian Effies, picking up a Gold for Long Term Effects and Gold for Brand Value.
Jonathan Kerr, Budget Direct’s chief growth officer, said while the recognition was greatly welcomed, it was the popularity and recognition shown by consumers that really reinforced the brand’s success.
“We are very proud of how successful the Insurance Solved platform has become but equally proud to have won Canstar’s Insurer of the Year award for a fourth year in a row.
“Budget Direct is the only insurer to ever win the award, so we wanted to deliver a highly memorable film to celebrate it. We hope it will become another favourite,” Kerr added.
‘Meteoric Mayhem’ is now running across TV, cinema, BVOD, online, social, OOH and radio.
Credits:
Budget Direct
Chief Growth Officer, Growth Ops – Jonathan Kerr
General Manager, Marketing and Communications, Growth Ops – Warren Marsh
Senior Marketing Manager, Marketing, Media & Acquisition, Growth Ops – Katie Lansdale
303 MullenLowe
Chief Creative Officer – Bart Pawlak
Creative Director – Adam Whitehead
Chief Executive Officer – Joanna Gray
Client Service Director – Ben Glasson
Chief Strategy Officer – Jody Elston
Executive Broadcast Producer – Rachel Devine
Production Partners
Production Company – Good Oil Films
Director – Hamish Rothwell
DOP – Crighton Bone
Executive Producer – Sam Long
Producer – Tracey-Lee Permall
Editor – Lucas Baynes
Post Production – Blockhead VFX
VFX Supervisor – Nigel Mortimer
Post Executive Producer – Charlotte Plowman
Original Music & Sound Post: Sonar Music
Composer: Matteo Zingales
Senior Sound Designers: Andy Stewart & Nat Joyce
Stills Photographer – Matt Baker, LOUIS & CO
BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand ad sales team has welcomed the appointment of Georgina Marshall as an account executive to the Melbourne team.
Marshall recently returned to Australia after working for the BBC Studios advertising team for five years in London, servicing markets across the UK and Europe.
She worked on several major global clients, including UNICEF, Visit Puglia, Armani, Royal College of Arts, Disney+, and Audi. Prior to her time in the UK, Georgina started her career in Australia, working for MCN (Foxtel & Channel 10).
This expansion of the BBC Studios ANZ Ad Sales team in Melbourne is in response to strong revenue growth from advertisers across Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia following the relaunch of BBC.com and introduction of the BBC app in 2024. The expansion comes alongside increasing access to new BBC digital, video, and audio inventory, including new solutions across podcasts, YouTube, and FAST.
Marshall’s appointment will play a key role in giving advertisers the opportunity to partner with BBC Studios to create campaigns that not only deliver top performance but also give brands confidence on the quality of inventory and premium brand-safe environments.
“Our offering to commercial clients is a compelling proposition in today’s digital advertising marketplace, and we are now better placed in Melbourne to directly service customers to help them get the very best out of our many platforms,” Jamie Chambers, VP, BBC Studios ANZ Ad Sales & BBC StoryWorks, said.
Last year, the general manager of BBC Studios Australia and New Zealand, Fiona Lang, surprised staff at an “all hands” meeting in September with news that she was stepping down and leaving the organisation.
In a note later sent to staff, Lang explained: “This has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, but having led the business through a critical stage in ANZ’s evolution, I feel that the time is right for me to pursue my next career opportunity.
Melbourne Social Co (MSC) has appointed Rosie Chong as its new social content manager.
Chong has built her reputation as one of Australia’s top LinkedIn creators and is known for her innovative approach to social content and her ability to craft impactful campaigns that drive engagement and connection.
With years of experience in social media strategy and content creation, she brings a fresh perspective to the boutique social-led creative agency’s growing team.
“I am so excited to be joining Melbourne Social Co,” Chong said.
“I’ve seen the growth Shelley and the team have been achieving over the last few years, and it feels like such a fantastic time to be coming on board. There are big things planned for 2025, and I can’t wait to be a part of the magic!”
Shelley Friesen, founder of Melbourne Social Co, welcomed Chong’s appointment and said: “We are delighted to welcome Rosie to our team. Her expertise as a leading content creator and her passion for building meaningful online communities make her an incredible asset to our agency. We’re looking forward to what we can achieve together in 2025.”
Chong’s appointment comes at an exciting time for MSC, as the agency continues to expand its offerings and deliver innovative, results-driven campaigns for its clients across Australia and beyond.
Last year, MSC was appointed to the social media accounts of professional and household cleaning products, Oates. The agency was also appointed as the creative agency to lead the launch on social media for the newly opened Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport.
See also:
Melbourne Social Co wins Oates cleaning products social media account
Melbourne Social Co to lead social media for Novotel and Ibis Styles Melbourne Airport
–
Top image: Rosie Chong
CEO Mark Zuckerberg, calling 2024 an “intense year,” said the company will move “low performers” out faster. US staff will be notified in February, while international updates will follow.
The cuts are part of broader changes, including scrapping Meta’s fact-checking and diversity programs. Zuckerberg said the focus is on retaining top talent, with plans to refill roles in 2025.
Renowned for his surreal, dreamlike storytelling and visually arresting style, Lynch redefined filmmaking with works as unsettling as they were groundbreaking. In 2019, he received an honorary Academy Award for his extraordinary contributions to cinema.
Lynch recently took to X to reveal he was battling emphysema.
Directed by Ben Stiller and boasting a stellar cast led by Adam Scott (Parks and Recreation) and Patricia Arquette (Medium), the 2022 dystopian drama racked up multiple Golden Globe and Emmy nominations.
The show, known for its darkly comedic twists, was among the productions most impacted by the Hollywood strikes, with filming delayed for months during the WGA and SAG-AFTRA walkouts.
As reported by Kyle Laidlaw in TV Blackbox, Fridays are traditionally The Project’s weakest ratings night -thanks to things like live sports and social distractions.
The shake-up looks to trim costs and shift focus, with McManus, whose production company owns the format, is reportedly steering the show toward lighter, more entertaining fare.