Seven’s national news director, Ray Kuka, has told staff to align with new leadership and prepare for the next phase of the company’s strategy, following a Town Hall with chairman Heith Mackay-Cruise and interim CEO John Kelly.
In an email seen by Mediaweek, Kuka said he left the address feeling “inspired and confident in the direction of our business with our new leaders at the helm”.
“I found today’s address came with authority, direction and support for where we are headed,” he wrote.
“They both clearly work at speed, like our newsrooms do, so let’s lean in.”
Sunrise
News positioned as central to strategy
Kuka said both Mackay-Cruise and Kelly spoke “incredibly highly about our News and Sunrise teams, and gave a very clear indication that content and editorial teams, both on camera and behind the scenes, are a critical part of the future of this business.”
He referenced Seven’s coverage of the Bondi Beach terror attack as an example of the standards expected going forward.
“Our staff who worked on the Bondi attack certainly did set the ‘gold standard’ on coverage, and that’s where Heith expects us to continue, as we will. It was great to hear this recognised.”
Kuka also reinforced the role of news within the broader business.
“The other key point I took was the reminder that we are the voice for Australia, questioning everyone who influences it. A really good reminder of expectations and holding the powerful to account while answering to our viewers.”
He said the news leadership team would present both short-term and long-term strategy plans to the chairman and CEO in the coming weeks, before sharing them with staff.
“It’s going to be a great 2026 and beyond in our newly merged business, let’s use their enthusiasm to not only continue to deliver the best news in the country, but grow.”
Chairman Heith Mackay-Cruise and interim CEO John Kelly.
Results show mixed performance
The email was sent days after the first financial results following the merger of Southern Cross Media Group and Seven West Media.
The combined group reported a 17% drop in profit, reflecting uneven performance across its divisions.
Seven’s television business outperformed a declining free-to-air advertising market in the first half. Total TV revenue fell 2.7%, compared to an estimated market contraction of around 10%. However, Seven’s EBITDA declined 28.7% for the period, highlighting continued pressure on linear television earnings.
Audio was stronger. SCA’s audio division delivered revenue growth in a declining metro radio market, indicating gains in market share. Broadcast radio margins improved to 27.5%, supported by cost reductions and modest revenue growth.
Streaming also recorded growth. Seven’s 7plus reported revenue growth of 15%, with audience growth of 55% and streaming minutes up 62%. SCA’s LiSTNR lifted revenue 14% and generated positive EBITDA of $2.8 million, compared to near breakeven in the prior corresponding period.
Jeff Howard.
When asked by Mediaweek about the decision to part ways with former CEO Jeff Howard a day before releasing its half-year results, Mackay-Cruise said: “We have a very robust strategy with regards to the bringing together of two amazing media companies to create the largest multimedia platform in Australia.”
Kuka’s message to staff suggests news and editorial will remain central to that strategy as the merged business navigates structural pressures in television and growth in audio and streaming.