Free TV boss to retire

Free TV CEO Julie Flynn will retire in July after 15 years as head of the lobby group.

She was appointed CEO of Free TV in February 2001, leading the organisation that represents commercial free to air networks.

During that time she has been diligent in confronting industry issues including the transition from analogue to digital, regulation, license fees, anti-siphoning, code of practice, disrupters and technological change.

Free TV has frequently been opposed to the views of Pay TV group ASTRA with both heavily lobbying Canberra.

“This has been a difficult decision for me,” Flynn said.

“The last 15 years has been an extraordinary privilege and a pleasure and I am extremely proud of all that we have been able to achieve over that time.

“Free TV is a great organisation in an industry that continues to be at the centre of Australian life.

“It is able to attract and retain talented staff, and I greatly appreciate their efforts and commitment.”

“Julie has been a remarkably effective participant and advocate in a complex area of public policy,” Chairman Harold Mitchell said.

“Julie’s leadership of Free TV is valued highly across the industry and her work is respected by broadcasters, regulators and politicians from all sides of politics.

“Julie has done a lot to improve recognition of the continuing value of commercial television to advertisers as well as the public.

“Her articulate and passionate representation of the industry has ensured that the value of free-to- air television services to all Australians has been front and centre of the public policy debate,” he said.

“Her retirement will be a loss for Free TV and for the industry.”