ABC Australia COO David Pendleton Resigns

SYDNEY: David Pendleton has resigned as the chief operating officer of Australia’s ABC, which recently announced the departure of its director of television as well.

Pendleton joined ABC as general manager of Group Audit in 1996 and was appointed director of finance and support services in 2002. He was promoted to COO in 2004. Prior to his official departure, Pendleton will assist Michelle Guthrie, the manager director, in preparations for the next budget. He will also help with the transition to new financial and operational leadership at the corporation.

“It has been a privilege and an honor to contribute to Australia’s most respected media organization,” Pendleton said. “I am proud of my team’s achievements during my time here as we have evolved from an analog to a digital broadcaster.

“Despite the many challenges, we have continued to innovate and provide outstanding service to the Australian public.

“I would like to acknowledge the many MDs, chairs, board directors, colleagues and teams I have worked with in my time at the ABC. I am confident that I leave the ABC in great shape with its best years ahead.”

It was just a week ago that the pubcaster announced its head of television, Richard Finlayson, was resigning. Finlayson, too, will assist Guthrie with the transition arrangements, through to the end of March.