In a significant move, Australian media giant Nine Entertainment Co. has embarked on an extensive organizational transformation aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing costs by AUD50 million ( million) for the fiscal year 2025. The company plans to consolidate its operations into three core divisions: streaming and broadcast, publishing, and marketplaces. Industry veteran Amanda Laing has been appointed to lead the newly formed streaming and broadcast unit, while Tory Maguire's role expands in publishing, and Alex Parsons will oversee the marketplaces division. Additionally, James Boyce joins as director of regulatory, public affairs, and communications. These changes are designed to streamline operations and position Nine for sustainable growth in a challenging external environment.
A Closer Look at Nine Entertainment's Restructuring
In the heart of Australia's bustling media landscape, Nine Entertainment Co. is making waves with a sweeping reorganization set to redefine its operational structure. This ambitious initiative aims to create a leaner, more efficient organization capable of thriving in today’s competitive media sector. The company has identified AUD50 million ( million) in cost reductions for the fiscal year 2025, signaling a commitment to financial prudence and strategic realignment.
The restructuring consolidates Nine's diverse operations into three primary divisions. The newly established streaming and broadcast division, now under the leadership of Amanda Laing, encompasses a wide array of platforms including the popular streamer Stan, livestream services, video on demand, and catch-up TV service 9Now. Laing, a seasoned industry veteran with extensive experience from her previous roles at Foxtel Group and Binge, brings invaluable expertise to this critical area of the business.
Tory Maguire, previously the publishing chief, will expand her responsibilities to include oversight of nine.com.au alongside prestigious publications such as The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and The Australian Financial Review. Meanwhile, Alex Parsons will take charge of the marketplaces division, which includes Domain and Drive, while continuing his role as chief digital officer. To further strengthen the executive team, James Boyce, former head of government and regulatory affairs at Paramount ANZ, has been brought in to direct regulatory, public affairs, and communications.
This new operating model, led by acting CEO Matt Stanton, features an eight-member executive team dedicated to driving strategic transformation. Stanton emphasized that these changes will enhance collaboration across different parts of the business, ensuring Nine remains agile and future-fit. The company aims to leverage its premium media assets while minimizing operational redundancies, all while maintaining Domain's current business structure and governance as an ASX-listed entity.
Nine's streaming platform Stan continues to thrive with popular original content such as “Ten Pound Poms,” “Totally Completely Fine,” and “Bad Behaviour.” These shows exemplify the company's commitment to producing high-quality programming that resonates with audiences.
From a journalist's perspective, Nine Entertainment's bold restructuring underscores the evolving nature of the media industry. In an era where digital transformation and cost optimization are paramount, Nine's strategic overhaul demonstrates a proactive approach to meeting the challenges of the modern media landscape. By bringing in seasoned executives like Amanda Laing and James Boyce, the company is positioning itself to navigate the complexities of regulation and competition, ensuring it remains a leader in the Australian media space. This move not only signals a commitment to innovation but also highlights the importance of adaptability in sustaining long-term success.