Ryan Stokes named new CEO of Seven Group

Seven has announced Ryan Stokes, son of chairman Kerry Stokes, has been appointed CEO and Managing Director of Seven Group Holdings Limited, parent group of Seven West Media.

He will replace current CEO Don Voelte who retires at the end of August after seven years with the company to focus on family interests. He will remain as a consultant.

“I am very pleased that I will have an ongoing involvement with this great company, and I’m looking forward to being able to continue to make a contribution,” said Mr Voelte.

“Ryan Stokes is the right choice to lead the Group forward and he will be an outstanding CEO. This is a natural progression and now is the right time for this transition.”

Ryan Stokes has been COO of SGH for the past three years, a Director of Seven West Media and SGH’s WesTrac division.

“SGH is in very good shape in what are challenging times, and our focus will remain on effectively deploying our available capital to enhance shareholder returns,” said Stokes.

“It has been a privilege to have worked with Don the last few years. A testament to his leadership skills can be seen in the excellent team he has assembled, and I’m looking forward to working closely with this highly experienced, strong executive group that will continue to grow the business.”

Chairman Kerry Stokes thanked Don Voelte for his contribution, including two years as CEO and MD of Seven Group Holdings and one at Seven West Media.

“Don is greatly liked and respected within our companies,” he said. “I want to thank him for all that he has contributed since first joining the board of West Australian Newspapers in 2008. He can be rightly proud of all his achievements.”

Tim Worner remains CEO of Seven West Media.