James Chessell steps down as Nine publishing boss

James Chessell has stepped down as boss of Nine’s publishing division, which oversees mastheads The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian Financial Review.

Tory Maguire, executive editor of the metro mastheads, has been appointed as acting managing director.

James Chessell has resigned after 2½ years in the role.Credit: James Brickwood

Chessell has resigned after 2½ years in the role, though he will continue to work with the business, according to Nine chief executive Mike Sneesby.

“It has been an absolute thrill to work in and around our newsrooms for the best part of two decades. Even on the not-so-good days it’s the best job in the world,” Chessell told staff.

“The business of journalism can be a little self-serving but it’s undeniable our mastheads are pumping out more meaningful stories, taking more risks on matters of public interest and reaching more Australians than any other media outlet.”

Before his appointment in 2021, Chessell was group executive editor of Nine’s metro mastheads. Maguire was appointed executive editor following his promotion.

Starting his career at The Age, Chessell’s career in journalism includes stints at The Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian Financial Review and News Corp’s The Australian.

He moved to London as The Australian Financial Review’s European correspondent in 2014, returning in 2018 to Sydney after being appointed at the metro mastheads.

“I want to wish Tory all the best as we transition the MD of Publishing role early next year. She has done more than most to transform the way we operate, with a focus on quality and digital excellence, and I can’t wait to see her do it on a bigger scale,” Chessell said.

In a note to staff on Friday, Sneesby said Chessell would continue “leading our engagement with government and with our digital platform partners”.

“These areas are a high priority for our business – ensuring we have the right regulatory settings in place to support the future of local media and developing strong commercial partnerships with the global digital platforms,” Sneesby said.

“James’ experience and extensive knowledge of the media landscape will be invaluable as we navigate the developing regulatory and commercial environments.

“I’m pleased to confirm the Publishing MD role will transition to Tory Maguire in January in an acting capacity. Tory is an excellent executive who is already a key member of our Group Leadership Team. James will also be working with us to assist during the transitional period in the new year.”

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