“Do we condone a ‘win at all costs’ attitude? No, we don’t.”

New Seven West Media CEO Jeff Howard has emailled staff on his first day in the top job, according to news.com.au.

“It’s been a difficult couple of weeks for the great people of Seven,’’ the former Chief Financial Officer in his note to staff.

“And as we transition to a new future, I thought some reflections may help us move forward

“First, some disclosures. As a family man first and foremost. I’ve never smoked. I don’t use drugs.

“Never have, never will. Call me boring but I don’t even drink coffee. Personally. I like to stay fit and try to run every day.

“Occasional glass of red or a beer hits the spot. Importantly, that’s just me. People can do what they want in their own time. I wont judge. But when it impacts others – or the workplace – that’s a different story.”

Howard takes the top position at a time when Seven has faced a barrage of headlines around legal threats, scrutiny over Spotlight the departure of top execs.

Seemingly referring to payment for news stories he noted,

“Our business exists in a world of intense competition.“Are, we the only ones who pay for content? Absolutely not. Should we be honest about it Absolutely. We all want to win. Do we condone a ‘win at all costs’ attitude? No, we don’t.”

The article notes Mr Howard urged staff to stick to tried and tested processes and to exercise judgment to “ensure we don’t jeopardise the reputation we’ve spent years building.”

“If poor judgement or unacceptable behaviour persists, or is outside our comfort zone, we will investigate. If necessary, we will have to move people on.”

Yesterday SWM Chairman, Kerry Stokes, and Jeff Howard both thanked James Warburton for his contribution to the business over many years. The search for a new SWM Chief Financial Officer continues.

Craig Haskins as Acting CFO until a successor for Mr Howard can be announced.

Source: news.com.au