ABC chief to exit after two terms

Mark Scott is to leave Australian pubcaster the ABC after the completion of his second term in the role mid-next year.

Managing director Scott (pictured) announced his departure in an internal email reported by the Australian press.

“I once answered a question on how I got my job at the ABC by giving the simple, honest answer: I responded to the position advertised in the newspaper,” he wrote.

“This note is just to tell you that if you are interested in being the next managing director, keep your eye out for an ad in coming months.”

He revealed he had told the ABC board earlier this year of his plan to quit after two full terms, adding: “I don’t think this will come as a surprise to anyone as I have made no secret of the fact that I think ten years is a long time to run an organisation, particularly in a sector as dynamic and fast-changing as media.”

Scott has faced massive budget and staff cuts in recent years, as well as moving the ABC towards a more digital-first approach through the launch of digital channels and the iview on-demand player.

“In the interim, there is lots to be done, with a number of big projects underway,” Scott added in his note to staff. “I am particularly focused on our audience strategy, the development of our digital offerings, hitting our budget targets and making the case for tri-funding. I will update you on this work down the track.”