MediaWorks TV CEO Paris resigns

Thursday 16th June 2011

MediaWorks Television chief executive Jason Paris has resigned just a year after he took up the job.

A brief statement today from MediaWorks group managing director Sussan Turner gave no reason for his departure.

The National Business Review quoted an anonymous "MediaWorks insider" who said Paris considered promises about funding for programming made by private equity owner Ironbridge had been broken.

Financial pressures on broadcasters and on debt-laden MediaWorks in particular had also played a role in Paris' move, the insider said.

"Basically there's no money, that's the problem."

MediaWorks owns and operates television stations TV3 and Four, and national radio brands including The Edge, The Rock, and More FM.

In the MediaWorks statement today, Turner said she would assume, as part of her group managing director role, head of television responsibilities and senior television management would report to her.

At the company's request, Paris would be working through his notice period to ensure the smooth transition of projects across the television business.

"The board of MediaWorks want to acknowledge the contribution that Jason has made to the television business," Turner said.

The statement also included a quote from Paris.

"The television team has achieved a huge amount in a challenging commercial environment. I thank all of them for their hard work and support and wish them all the very best in their ongoing endeavours," he said.

NZPA

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