Freeview, Australia’s free-to-air aggregated television platform, has announced CEO Liz Ross has decided to step down from the role after close to eight years of service.
Freeview was established in 2008 by ABC, Nine, Seven, SBS and 10 to market, at that time, the new digital free-to-air channels and help Australians transition from analogue to digital broadcast. Liz Ross came in to Freeview in 2011 to build a world-leading aggregated brand, products and platform.
Over the last decade Freeview has introduced a number of aggregated free-to air-products including hybrid Broadband Broadcast platform HbbTV and Freeview’s digital platforms on Apple TV, Chromecast, mobile and web. Freeview has also been recognised internationally through a range of prestigious awards including Best Enhanced TV Service at the International Interactive TV Awards for Freeview Plus; and the International Grand Prix and Winner, Best TV/Video Service at the Connie Awards.
Ross said: “I am very proud of the achievements, innovations and the strategic evolution of Freeview over the last eight years under my leadership. We’ve worked hard to ensure that every Freeview product is providing aggregated live and catch-up services for all Australian consumers. I am happy to say that Freeview now leads the world with a product suite unmatched by any other FTA industry.”
Freeview’s chair, ABC chief digital & information officer Helen Clifton said: “On behalf of the board of Freeview we would like to thank Liz for her commitment to and passion for our industry. Liz has built Freeview into a well-recognised Australian entertainment brand. She has shown great leadership in bringing free-to-air broadcasters together to create a go-to platform for viewers looking for the best Australian and international content across our channels. Freeview will shortly begin a search for a new CEO to drive the next phase of growth for Freeview, continue to provide great access for viewers, and further unlock the value of the Freeview brand and HbbTV in this market.
“Former Free TV CEO Julie Flynn has kindly agreed to step in to an acting role to ensure it is business as usual while the board conducts a search for a replacement for Liz. Julie was involved at the outset of Freeview so we will be in safe hands.”