TEG has appointed Simon Cahill, head of commercial, and Jono Whyman, general manager of SXSW Sydney, as co-managing directors for SXSW Sydney. Cahill will also take on the role of TEG’s chief commercial officer while continuing his existing commercial responsibilities.
The leadership changes come as Colin Daniels steps down from his role as SXSW Sydney managing director, a position he held since the event’s launch in Australia. Daniels will remain involved with the festival as a member of the SXSW Sydney board and will continue his role as a founding partner of Handsome Tours.
The new leadership structure aims to strengthen SXSW Sydney’s commercial and operational strategy as it builds on its debut year. With Cahill’s expertise in commercial partnerships and Whyman’s experience in event management, the festival will continue to develop its position as a key cultural and business event in the region.
TEG Group CEO and SXSW chair Geoff Jones said: “First and foremost, I would like to personally thank Colin for his dedication and hard work over the years. Colin has done an outstanding job in building a passionate Team, successfully launching SXSW Sydney, and ensuring the vision for this world-leading Event is set for the future. His leadership has been instrumental, and I am grateful for his contributions.
Former SXSW Sydney managing director, Colin Daniels.
“I am also delighted to welcome Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman as the Co-Managing Directors for SXSW Sydney. Both Simon and Jono have been working on the event since day one and have both played a pivotal role in helping build one of the largest events in the APAC region.
“I look forward to working alongside Simon and Jono to continue further expanding the festival to new heights.”
Speaking about their appointments, Cahill and Whyman said: “We are both honoured to step into the role of Co-Managing Directors for SXSW Sydney. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Geoff for this incredible opportunity and to Colin for laying such a strong foundation for the festival.
“We are excited to build on the success of the festival and further develop SXSW Sydney as the premier destination for innovation, creativity, and collaboration in the Asia Pacific region.”
SXSW Sydney will take place this year from 13 – 19 October 2025.
Pictured: Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman