Three days since he hung up his hat at Aegis, Harold Mitchell's not a man to sit still. He has been appointed chairman of Free TV Australia.
Mitchell replaced Jeff Browne who resigned in April following a stoush between members over the government's proposed abolition of the reach rule.
Mitchell said: “There is a great energy and confidence within Australian free TV networks, and this is a great opportunity for me to remain involved with the free-to-air television industry at a time of real change.
“Commercial television is part of the fabric of Australian life; it's in 99% of homes and is the major investor in Australian content. Free-to-air TV is reaching more consumers on more platforms than ever before, a position of strength that equips it for the challenges of our digital world.”
Mitchell finished up at Aegis on 10 August after a 54-year media career.
Free TV chief executive Julie Flynn said: “Nobody has more extensive experience and understanding of our business and the wider industry landscape. We look forward to his leadership and advice as we complete the transition to digital television and progress Free TV's mission to continue to deliver the best entertainment, news and sport to all Australians for free.”
Heavyweights of the TV industry have already expressed their approval. Seven West Media chief executive Tim Worner said: “Nobody really believed Harold when he said he was going to retire, he's got way too much to contribute. Harold and retirement does not compute.”
Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes called Mitchell an icon and said he would be “terrific” in the role.
Ten boss Hamish McLennan said: “We are very lucky and pleased that he accepted the offer to chair Free TV Australia. Harold’s experience, talent and enthusiasm will be a tremendous asset and he will help advance the cause of the free-to-air television industry at all levels."
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