ABC TV’s Head of Children’s & Head of Fiction Depart

SYDNEY: ABC TV has announced the departure of two members of its executive team: Carole Sklan, head of fiction, and Deirdre Brennan, head of children’s.

Brennan leaves her role as head of children’s to pursue new opportunities within the international market. She will depart in March. Luka Skandle, channel manager for children’s, will take on additional responsibilities until a replacement is found.

Brennan said: “It has been an incredible privilege to be a part of the ABC TV team since 2013. I would like to thank Richard Finlayson and Mark Scott for trusting me with the leadership of ABC KIDS and ABC3 over that time.”

Finlayson, the director of television, said: “Although we will be sad to see her leave, Deirdre has built an incredibly strong ABC team in this important genre, preparing us for the competitive environment ahead with an impactful content slate that will roll out in years to come.”

After nearly six years at the helm of ABC Fiction, Sklan is “taking a break.”

Sklan said: “It’s been a fantastic journey at the ABC. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with extraordinary, creative Australian storytellers and showcase the work of brilliant writers, producers, directors, actors and performers, designers, editors and directors of photography. We were able to ramp up production and support everything from iconic literary adaptations to indelible stories of remarkable Australians; from fresh, bold comedies to intriguing murder mysteries; contemporary relationship drama, and enthralling thrillers.

“It’s time for a change of pace for me, but I’ve so valued the opportunity to work for our national public broadcaster with a team of such talented, passionate and dedicated colleagues.”

Finlayson commented: “We are incredibly sad to see Carole leave. She has helped create an outstanding body of work since 2009, and under her leadership the ABC Fiction team has supported the production of over 400 hours of Australian drama and comedy, and won countless awards.”