URGENT UPDATE: Peter Charlton, the chief executive of NOVA Entertainment, has been officially appointed as the new Chair of Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA). This significant leadership change comes as Ciaran Davis steps down after a transformative three-year tenure, marked by advancements in measurement, digital capability, and industry standards.
Charlton’s appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for the industry. “I’m honoured to be taking on the role of Chair at such an exciting time for commercial radio and audio,” Charlton stated. He highlighted the immense opportunities ahead for the sector and emphasized the importance of collaboration, especially following the launch of the new CRA Audio ID initiative.
The new chair aims to drive innovation and strengthen the voice of the industry, leveraging his extensive experience in audience strategy and digital audio. Charlton’s long-standing relationship with CRA CEO Lizzie Young is expected to be a crucial asset as they work together to build on the progress made under Davis’s leadership.
Young expressed her gratitude to Davis for his commitment to CRA during a time of significant change. “Ciaran has served on the Board for many years, guiding the industry through transformation,” she noted. She affirmed Charlton’s leadership at this critical juncture, stating, “The opportunity to build on this growth with our customers is exciting as we continue to shape the future of Australian audio.”
Charlton will lead a board filled with senior executives from prominent organizations, including ARN Media, Southern Cross Austereo, Nine, ACE Radio, and the Super Radio Network. In a move to ensure regional representation, Rowly Paterson has been re-elected as Vice Chair – Regional.
As the industry stands at the brink of a new era, the focus will now shift to the upcoming initiatives that CRA will undertake under Charlton’s guidance. The annual industry showcase event, HEARD, along with the power of audio campaign, will serve as platforms to demonstrate the industry’s collaborative efforts and innovations.
Stay updated on the latest developments in media, marketing, and agency news with the Mediaweek Morning Report, delivered free every morning to your inbox.
