Radio NZ to search for new CEO

Radio New Zealand has initiated a process to find a replacement for Chief Executive and Editor-in-Chief, Peter Cavanagh, when he completes his term later this year, radioinfo reports.

In making the announcement that he will be stepping down from the role at the end of the year, Peter Cavanagh emphasised the importance of a smooth transition for the public service broadcaster.

“I have advised the Board that after ten years as CEO of Radio New Zealand, I will not be seeking to renew my contract when it expires in December. I am announcing my decision now to give the Board as much time as possible to find the best person to lead the organisation into the future.”

Radio New Zealand Chairman, Richard Griffin said “It is a credit to Peter’s stewardship that Radio New Zealand has never been in better heart. Public support is running at record levels, key Charter performance indicators are among the best ever, and Radio New Zealand National has ended 2012 well ahead of its nearest commercial rival.”

In making his announcement Peter Cavanagh said New Zealanders had a great appetite for quality public service broadcasting, making Radio New Zealand one of the most successful public broadcasters anywhere in the world.

“Radio New Zealand National finished 2012 as the No.1 radio station in New Zealand for the second year in a row. For a public service broadcaster operating in the most competitive radio market in the world, this is a truly remarkable achievement.“

Radio New Zealand has won more than 80 New Zealand Radio Awards since 2003 including the supreme Metropolitan Station of the Year for Radio New Zealand National in 2009. International recognition has included the prestigious AIB International Radio Station of the Year in 2007 and two AIB awards and a New York Festival Award in 2012.