Martin Stewart Departs OSN for SKY Television NZ

Martin Stewart has exited his post as CEO of OSN, succeeded at the Middle Eastern broadcaster by Patrick Tillieux as he takes on the role of chief executive at SKY Television in New Zealand.

Stewart takes on the CEO post at SKY TV NZ on February 21, 2019. He replaces retiring CEO John Fellet.

At OSN, Tillieux has been appointed as CEO effective immediately. Tillieux has been on OSN’s board for two years and is the chairman of the executive committee of the board.

Tillieux said: “I am honored to have been selected as OSN’s new CEO. As a member of the board, it has been a privilege to witness firsthand the quality of OSN’s people and assets; I now look forward to steering OSN’s energy towards renewed growth and ever improved engagement with customers. I believe that OSN is uniquely positioned in the region to offer high-quality innovative services that will make a real contribution to fulfilling customers’ desires.”

Faisal Al Ayyar, chairman of OSN, said: “The board wishes to acknowledge Mr. Stewart’s efforts and achievements in strengthening operational efficiency and adding value to customers. Under his leadership, OSN has significantly improved its operations and embedded a customer first approach. He has also enhanced the company’s digital and technology capabilities to better serve customers. The board thanks him for his contribution and wishes him the very best in all future endeavors.”

“I am excited at the opportunity to lead SKY as it continues its transformation from a traditional television broadcaster to a multiplatform entertainment business,” Stewart said. “SKY has an exceptional sport offering that covers the sports that New Zealanders love to watch, an unrivaled lineup of entertainment content, and it serves over 760,000 New Zealanders.

“SKY is in a good place to take advantage of the opportunities that increased internet connectivity is offering, while retaining its important strategic position of being able to deliver content, particularly live sport, to 100 percent of the country. I’m looking forward to being part of the next phase of the SKY story.”

SKY Chairman Peter Macourt said: “We are delighted to be appointing a CEO of Martin’s caliber and international experience. We conducted an extensive global search for the right person to lead SKY and had a strong field of candidates to select from. Martin’s experience, his leadership skills and his strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges of our sector made him a stand-out choice.”

Fellet commented: “Martin is an experienced professional with a deep understanding of our industry. He is highly regarded as a transformational leader, and I look forward to welcoming him to SKY.

“Martin joins SKY at an exciting time for the company. Continuing to transform and enhance the experiences that SKY customers receive is a key part of SKY’s strategy, and Martin will bring a valuable international perspective to our business.”