David Anderson appointed ABC managing director

More than seven months after sacking Michelle Guthrie, public broadcaster names her replacement.

Ita Buttrose, chair of ABC and David Anderson, who has been appointed managing director. Picture: Supplied

ABC has tapped long-serving executive David Anderson as its new managing director, more than seven months after sacking Michelle Guthrie, which raised many eyebrows and led to the resignation of chairman Justin Milne.

Chairwoman Ita ButtRose said Mr Anderson, who has risen through the ranks at the public broadcaster over the past 30 years, is an “exceptional media professional with strong content, digital and strategic experience.”

“The ABC board resolved unanimously to appoint David Anderson following a national and international search that produced many impressive candidates,” said Ms Buttrose, who only joined the ABC at the end of February.

“With almost 30 years of service, David’s knowledge of the ABC is unsurpassed. He has a deep understanding of audience needs and the Board is confident he has the skills and ability to respond to the challenges of a changing media environment.

“We believe he is the right person to lead the Corporation at this time. David already enjoys the trust and confidence of the ABC leadership team and staff and he is ideally placed to continue to provide strong leadership and direction,” Ms Buttrose said in a statement that was released Friday evening.

Mr Anderson, who has been acting managing director since Ms Guthrie’s sacking over her performance, will lead the organisation for five years in accordance with the ABC Act, and will have “ultimate responsibility for all editorial content.

Mr Anderson was chuffed with the promotion. “It is a privilege to be appointed to the role, overseeing one of Australia’s most loved and respected cultural institutions.”

“I look forward to continuing to lead the ABC and allowing our talented teams to get on with what the ABC does best: serving the Australian people, delivering Australia’s finest agenda-setting news and current affairs, hosting conversations and telling stories that look and sound like Australia,” Mr Anderson said.

Prior to taking over as acting managing director, Mr Anderson was the director of entertainment & specialist, responsible for all ABC radio music networks, broadcast television, and on-demand products and services, websites and apps.

An ABC spokeswoman said neither Ms Buttrose or Mr Anderson were available for further comment.