New exec appointment at Foxtel

Foxtel has apointed Duane Hatherly to the roles of General Manager, LifeStyle Channels and Head of Production, Foxtel.

He takes on the LifeStyle Channel roles following the exit of Nicole Sheffield to News Ltd.

Foxtel Executive Director of Television, Brian Walsh, said: “This is a well deserved promotion for Duane, an outstanding television executive who has demonstrated impressive qualities as a manager and an architect of channels in the general entertainment genre. He is an exceptional leader and has mentored many under his charge.

“Put simply, we could not have achieved the success we enjoy today without Duane’s passion and commitment to Foxtel and Subscription Television.”

Hatherly began his career with Foxtel in July 1996, shortly after the company began operations. His tenure has seen him work across many broadcast divisions, including graphics, creative services, production and channel management. He was appointed to the role of Channel Manager for FOX8 in September 2004 and has led the channel to brilliant, top-rating success since. Over the last five years he has managed numerous channels including Bio, Arena, The Comedy Channel and 111 HITS.

In 2007 he began overseeing local productions acting as Foxtel executive producer on series such as Australia’s Next Top Model, Project Runway Australia, Rove LA, Dating in the Dark Australia, The Contender, SLiDE and Cricket Superstar.

Walsh continued: “I know Duane will continue to inspire as he leads the team at the LifeStyle channels, and I am especially delighted he will continue to direct the creative execution of all our local productions in his additional role as Head of Production, overseeing the productions for the combined new group.”

Hatherly said: “I am honoured to be given this exciting opportunity. Over the years The LifeStyle Channels have built an incredible brand in this country and their franchises continue to achieve stunning success. They are clear market leaders and I am looking forward to working alongside the group of talented people who have driven such amazing results.”

The appointment is effective from late May.

Further executive announcements will be made following the completion of the sale of Austar to Foxtel.