News Corp Australia announced internally this morning that chief marketing officer Tony Phillips will be leaving News Corp at the end of 2018.
Phillips has decided to return home to Melbourne and plans to open his own brand consultancy next year.
News Corp Australia executive chairman Michael Miller and COO publishing Damian Eales told the leadership team:
“Since joining us two and half years ago, Tony has demonstrated a deep passion for our brands, a deep affection for our business and limitless creativity for re-energising our brand positioning in the market.
“Thanks to his vision and leadership, the We’re For You brand campaign launched earlier this year has been a tremendous success. It has set strong foundations for long-term brand positioning of our company and our individual mastheads and what we stand for.
“Equally, the outcome of the 2018 Come Together event series has also been exceptional, showcasing business innovation, thought leadership and market-leading solutions for our clients. This has changed the perceptions of our company’s capabilities and our powerful position in the new media landscape.
“During the remaining months with us, Tony will continue overseeing BAU activities, delivering marketing transformation priorities, and focusing on key projects such as the Innovation Sprints. He will also provide his brand of creative thought leadership to key priorities coming up across the broader News Corp Australia business.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Tony for his contribution and commitment to our company. We’re delighted that News Corp will be Tony’s foundation client when he launches his own business venture next year.”