Foxtel today announced a re-structure of its music channels group and the creation of a new broadcast Arts and Music division for its owned and operated brands within the Foxtel Networks Australia portfolio.
Foxtel Arts, the dedicated HD Arts channel, and Foxtel’s suite of music channels – [V] HITS, MAX, Foxtel Smooth and CMC – will now be managed as a combined team under newly appointed Group Channel Manager, Foxtel ARTS & MUSIC, Fraser Stark.
In making the announcement, Brian Walsh, Foxtel Executive Director of Television, said: “Foxtel is Australia’s only television company providing the local music industry and Arts communities with specially curated, locally produced channels. To further strengthen and consolidate our position, it made sense to combine our brands under one group. Foxtel’s music and arts channels are a key strategic content strand and we’re the only ones doing it in the television space in this country.
“It is important to us as a company and our on-going commitment to the music industry to continue to showcase the works of musicians, artists, performers and storytellers. We are proud to be the home of music television with unique, specialised music brands and content that Australians love.”
“Fraser Stark has done an exceptional job building and refining Foxtel Arts since its launch last year. His energy, imagination and commercial approach will build on the exceptional talents of the Arts and Music team to provide a complete music and live performance offering,” he said.
Fraser Stark said: “I am incredibly excited about this new opportunity and there is great synergy between the Arts and Music brands. I look forward to leading the strong and passionate music team to continue providing these great channels for Foxtel’s viewers.”
The new team structure will commence from Monday, August 29. Fraser will report to Foxtel Networks Australia’s Head of Channels Stephen Baldwin.
Rebecca Batties, who had been heading the Music portfolio for the past two years, tendered her resignation earlier this month to pursue other business interests. “I would like to acknowledge Rebecca’s terrific contribution to the company and wish her well with her next endeavour.” Brian Walsh said.
