Nine shuffles production team as Factual boss resigns

Nine has made some changes to its senior production team following the resignation of John McAvoy, Head of Factual Programming.

“I’ve loved my time at Nine and wish David Gyngell, Michael Healy and their teams every success,” McAvoy said. “After 18 years with the network I’m looking forward to taking a bit of a break.”

Director of Programming, Michael Healy, said: “We’re sorry to see John go. He has been a significant member of our programming department over the last four years. We wish him all the best and support his decision.”

Current Head of Lifestyle and Reality, Karen Dewey, will replace him.

Meanwhile, David Mason has been appointed Head of Development, to oversee new programs. Mason, whose production company Mason Media produced Trouble in Paradise, has been producing television programs for more than 25 years, including Medical Emergency, The Mole,  RSPCA Animal Rescue and Who Dares Wins.

Janine Cooper will also join Nine as Head of Entertainment. Cooper, who produced this year’s Logie Awards and Make Me a Supermodel, is experienced in  live entertainment, reality, lifestyle, current affairs, news, comedy, sport, chat and awards shows.

“I am pleased to announce the appointments of David and Janine, as well as Karen’s newly expanded role,”  Healy said. “They each bring a wealth of experience to their roles and I am delighted that they will apply their considerable talent and knowledge across our production slate.”