NZME expands in Australian market

AUCKLAND, Today: An NZME agency sales team is expanding into the Australian market, with the appointment of Chris Rudd as GM Australia – Customer Solutions.

NZME head of agency sales Greg McCrea said: “Chris has been with NZME for 11 years and is currently GM Publishing (Commercial).

“Splitting his time across Australia and New Zealand, in his new role Chris will be focused on new business opportunities and driving revenue growth within the company’s existing customer portfolio across the Tasman.

“He will work closely with NZME’s current Australian based team including Angie Russell, NZME’s GM Australia – Direct & Agency.

“Chris has a wealth of experience of 25 years spent working in both Australia and New Zealand’s media industries, including his time at ACP in Australia.

“Having two senior, high-calibre media experts based in Australia really gives us a point of difference.”

“Having two senior, high calibre media industry experts being based in the Australian market really gives us a point of difference and allows us to engage further with our agency and client partners in Australia.”

Chris Rudd said: “I’m really excited to help drive new revenue in the Australian market. There is massive potential as well as great learnings we can deliver back to our team in New Zealand now the borders are open.

“It’s also great to be able to work across the full NZME portfolio of platforms and represent the company over in Australia,”

With Rudd moving into the new role, Margaret Hawker will step into the newly created role of head of commercial publishing and innovation. She will be responsible for the retention and growth of revenue into the NZ Herald, NZME’s regional and community print brands, and nzherald.co.nz across both news and lifestyle content.

Both commence their new roles from this Tuesday 7 June.