SBS Merges TV & Online Divisions as Television Director Departs

January 15, 2015 World Screen Top Stories

MELBOURNE: Tony Iffland, the director of television at SBS, is exiting the Australian pubcaster, which is now bringing together its TV and online content teams.

For the last three years, Iffland has steered SBS television through a period of growth and transition, including the launch of free-to-air NITV and the relaunch of SBS 2. In the wake of his departure, SBS is combining its TV and online content divisions, to be led by Marshall Heald in the new role of director of television and online content. Heald is currently serving as chief digital officer and has been with SBS since 2007. Heald will take up the new post when Iffland departs SBS at the end of January.

Michael Ebeid, SBS's managing director, said: “I thank Tony for the huge contribution he has made to SBS. Tony’s commitment to innovation in programming, focus on ensuring our audience is at the heart of everything we do, and the exceptional team he has built and nurtured leaves SBS television in great shape. I wish him the absolute best for the future.”

Iffland commented: “This was a tough decision and I am sad to leave such a great team but now is the right time for me to consider new opportunities. I am incredibly proud of our achievements on screen and in assembling a world-class content team. Our diversified portfolio of content means SBS is being enjoyed by more Australians. SBS has an invaluable role to play in contemporary Australia and is well-positioned to continue delivering great TV programs for all Australians.”

Ebeid added: “Bringing together the online and television content teams builds on the extensive work we’ve already done to join up our content approach across all our platforms. The changes are about evolving our ability to maximize investment in multiplatform content that reflects the Charter and enhances the experience for Australian audiences, delivering content in the ways they are consuming media today.

“Marshall’s extensive expertise in media, content and digital environments will be invaluable to SBS as we continue to deliver audiences high-impact content that reflects their changing media consumption habits whilst maintaining the integrity of the unique SBS Charter in providing all Australians with inspired content.”