Joan Withers named chairwoman of TVNZ, replacing Wayne Walden
Joan Withers has been deputy chairwoman of the state-owned broadcaster since 2009.
Professional director Joan Withers has been named chairwoman of Television New Zealand, replacing Wayne Walden.
Withers has been deputy chairwoman of the state-owned broadcaster since 2009 and her previous experience in media companies includes being chief executive of Fairfax Media New Zealand.
TVNZ dominates free-to-air broadcasting in New Zealand and its market share rose to 61.6% in the first half from 60.9%. Sales and profit both fell as advertising revenue, which makes up 88% of total sales, weakened and costs rose. Chief executive Kevin Kenrick told Parliament's commerce committee last week the company expects to resume dividend payments in 2016 after a hiatus while it redeveloped its headquarters.
In announcing Mrs Withers' appointment, Broadcasting Minister Amy Adams said her background and expertise in media "positions her well to take the helm of TVNZ at a time when it’s growing its online presence."
Withers is also chairwoman of Mighty River Power, and sits on the board of ANZ New Zealand. Her term as chairwoman of TVNZ runs from May 1 until April 30, 2016.
(BusinessDesk)
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Joan Withers named chairwoman of TVNZ, replacing Wayne Walden
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