Nicole Sheffield has today resigned from News Corp after six years at the company.
AdNews understands an internal power struggle was one of the reasons behind Sheffield’s exit, believed to be between her and CCO of publishing Damian Eales. News Corp denies any rift between the two powerhouses.
Her exit has been rumoured for several weeks but staff were only informed today.
In a media statement, Sheffield said: “I’ve loved my time with News through a period of extraordinary change with so many opportunities and such wonderful content, it has been an incredible experience."
“But with the business soaring I’m ready to pass the baton to an exceptional team and pursue my entrepreneurial spirit.”
News Corp Australasia executive chair Michael Miller said Sheffield's time at News Corp was marked by "significant achievements".
"Under Nicole’s leadership news.com.au has gone to number one in the online news category and she drove leading commercial and innovation partnerships for brands as diverse as taste.com.au and Vogue Australia," he said.
"Nicole launched and chaired the joint venture Medium Rare Content Agency, created new products and services and launched a series of leading digital networks including Food Corp, the News Prestige Network and the women’s network under WHIMN.
"With those achievements in place I understand her desire to explore her own opportunities and I wish her well."
Sheffield, who is also the chair of IAB Australia, has held several senior roles, including managing director of News Digital Networks Australia, CEO of NewsLifeMedia and general manager of the Lifestyle Channels group. She was most recently promoted to chief digital officer and integrated more into the core News Corp business.
News Corp says Sheffield will assist with the transition to new digital leadership between now and April.
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