The ABC has confirmed the appointment of Simon Robinson, a senior Reuters executive, as its new news director. Robinson will join the broadcaster in September, replacing Justin Stevens, who resigned abruptly after four years in the role, citing personal and professional reasons.
Robinson, who grew up listening to ABC News, said he was delighted to return home. 'As a passionate believer in the power of fact-based, independent journalism, I believe the ABC plays a pivotal role in providing Australians with the reliable reporting we all need,' he said.
At Senate estimates on Thursday, ABC managing director Hugh Marks refused to confirm or deny that he had threatened to terminate Stevens if he did not resign. Marks said he held a meeting with Stevens about a 'very serious matter' but added, 'I don’t make threats, senator.' He suggested the change signalled a period of renewal, saying it was 'an opportunity for us to move forward and look at a refreshed and rejuvenated output.'
Robinson began his career at Time Inc in Sydney and later worked as a correspondent and editor for Time overseas. He has spent 16 years at Reuters, currently serving as deputy to the editor-in-chief of the 2,600-strong newsroom. Sources told Guardian Australia that ABC chair Kim Williams, who knew Robinson from his time on the Thomson Reuters Founders Share Company board, was a strong supporter of the appointment.
