Southern Star rocked by CEO departure

Rory Callaghan has resigned from Endemol owned Southern Star and looks likely to take a role at one of its main competitors.

Callaghan has been running the Australian producer and distributor since shortly after it was acquired by Endemol in 2009.

He told local press “a new opportunity has come my way”, adding that his current employer is “cranky” about his unexpected departure and “will be upset” when they find out where he is headed.

The company makes shows for various Australian broadcasters including the local versions of Big Brother, Deal or No Deal and Wipeout.

The Australian newspaper links FremantleMedia Australia’s director of programming, Tim Clucas, with the now vacant Southern Star CEO position.

Endemol bought Southern Star from Fairfax Media for A$75 million in early 2009. Callaghan, who had joined as director of programs in 2006, then became company CEO.