Kim Williams Appointed as New ABC Chair, Succeeding Ita Buttrose
Kim Williams, former CEO of News Corp, has been confirmed as the successor to Ita Buttrose as the chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). This decision was officially backed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, following Williams‘ nomination by an independent selection committee.
Williams‘ tenure as the ABC chair is set to last for a period of five years. His appointment follows a period of tension within the ABC, notably after Buttrose, the outgoing chair, criticized ABC employees for expressing a lack of confidence in ABC’s managing director, David Anderson.
Having led Foxtel for over ten years and then News Limited (currently known as News Corp) for two years, Williams brings a wealth of experience to the role. Additionally, he served as the chairman of the Sydney Opera House Trust for almost a decade.
Buttrose is scheduled to conclude her five-year term as chair on March 6.
In endorsing Williams, Albanese highlighted his suitability for the role:
“Kim is such a perfect fit for the role, it’s almost as if it were made for him.
He of course has led news organisations including News Corp, he has been involved in sporting organisations, but many many arts organisations including those engaged in music and the theatre.
Kim is someone who gets the ABC.“
In response to the announcement, the ABC released a statement expressing approval of Williams‘ appointment. The statement acknowledged his respected status and extensive leadership experience in various sectors, including media, arts, sports, politics, and business. It also noted that his leadership would ensure ongoing stability and effective governance at ABC, following Ms. Buttrose‘s tenure over the past five years.
