Angus Ross returns to Seven in major SCA leadership reversal

Angus Ross is returning to Southern Cross Media Group in a newly created role as managing director, television and streaming, marking a sharp reversal after his exit from Seven earlier this year.

Ross will officially start on 1 July and report to SCA managing director and CEO Rohan Lund. He will oversee all television and streaming content teams across news, sport and entertainment for Seven and 7plus.

The appointment brings Ross back into the group after more than 25 years at Seven, where he held senior content and management roles and helped drive the network’s broadcast and streaming performance.

His return follows a turbulent period for the newly merged Southern Cross/Seven business. Ross exited Seven in March after nearly 27 years as part of a leadership reset following the merger, with his departure widely seen as one of the most significant changes in the post-deal reshuffle.

Rohan Lund took over as SCA managing director and CEO in late April, after the company’s leadership shifted again during the early stages of integration.

“Angus is without doubt one of the most consistently successful media executives in Australia and the Board and management are very pleased he has agreed to return in this new, expanded role,” Lund said in a statement.

“As we continue with the integration of Seven and Southern Cross Austereo, we now have three world-class executives running our three divisions – Angus in television and streaming, John Kelly as Managing Director, Audio, and Maryna Fewster as CEO of Seven West Media WA – with digital at the core of each division’s focus and strategy.

“Angus, John, Maryna and the rest of the senior management team are focusing hard on harnessing the power of the group for our partners, viewers, listeners, readers and staff, and making the most of the opportunities ahead of us.”

Lund said Ross had previously taken Seven “to the top” and said he was looking forward to working with him again as the group builds on the performance of Seven and 7plus.

Ross said the combined strength of the group created a competitive advantage.

“It’s great to be back working with Rohan again at a time when the combined strength of this group gives us a genuine competitive advantage. Bringing news, sport and entertainment under one content strategy is a game changer for us – it’s how we will continue to deliver more for our viewers and advertisers,” Ross said.