Southern Cross Media Group has removed Chief Executive Officer Jeff Howard, effective immediately, as the newly constituted board moves to “accelerate the delivery of its strategy” following the completion of its merger
In an ASX release on Monday afternoon, the company confirmed Howard will step down as Managing Director and CEO, with Chairman Heith Mackay-Cruise stepping into an expanded operational role as Interim Executive Chairman
All business unit leaders and corporate services will now report directly to Mackay-Cruise.
Board takes control as global CEO search begins
The board has appointed an executive search firm to undertake a global search for SCA’s next CEO.
The leadership reset comes just days after Kerry Stokes AC retired from the board on 20 February 2026, with Mackay-Cruise assuming the chair at that time.
He will now serve as Interim Executive Chairman while the search process unfolds.
“As the company accelerates the delivery of its strategy, SCA’s newly constituted Board has determined it is the appropriate time to appoint new leadership to take the Group forward and execute on our plans.
“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Jeff for his efforts across the period of transition, with the successful implementation of the Scheme of Arrangement and creation of a market-leading, multi-platform media company now complete,” Mr Mackay-Cruise said.
Heith Mackay-Cruise
CFO change confirmed as integration focus sharpens
The company also confirmed the appointment of Scott Butterworth as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.
Butterworth succeeds Craig Haskins, who, as previously disclosed to the ASX on 7 January 2026, will retire following a short transition period, with his final day set for Friday, 27 February 2026.
“As a CFO, Scott Butterworth has extensive experience in large-scale, multi-disciplinary leadership roles with significant focus on customer engagement. He has the right skill set, transformational capability, and a proven track record for our business. On behalf of the Board, I’d like to welcome Scott and express our gratitude to Craig for his guidance across the recent transition period,” Mr Mackay-Cruise said.
Scott Butterworth.
John Kelly will assume the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer – TV and Audio, with responsibility for driving the integration of the TV and Audio assets
Toby Potter will move into the role of Chief Transformation Officer – TV and Audio, after serving as Interim Chief Financial Officer
“The Board is confident in our team’s capability to apply the financial discipline and industry-leading expertise to drive scale and performance for Southern Cross Media Group going forward,” Mr Mackay-Cruise said
An investor presentation on Tuesday, 25 February at 9:00 am AEDT will be attended by Mackay-Cruise, Potter and Kelly.