Ooh Media names SBS boss James Taylor as next CEO

Ooh Media has appointed SBS managing director James Taylor as its next CEO, succeeding Cathy O’Connor, who will step down in January 2026 after more than four years in the role.

Taylor, who has led SBS since 2018, is expected to join Ooh either later this year or early 2026. His tenure at the public broadcaster has been marked by the expansion of SBS On Demand, strong advertising revenue growth and a lift in total audience consumption.

Before becoming managing director, Taylor spent five years as SBS CFO, overseeing finance, strategy, corporate services, legal, and people and culture. His earlier career included senior roles at Deloitte, British Telecom, and the ABC, with a focus on corporate strategy, operational efficiency, and organisational transformation.

Ooh chair Tony Faure said Taylor’s experience positioned him to lead the next phase of growth for the out of home specialist.

“James is a proven leader in the media industry with a strong track record of delivery and execution, and we are excited about the growth-oriented vision and energy he brings to the company,” Faure said.

Taylor said he was joining the business at a pivotal time for the sector. “I’m thrilled to be joining oOh! at such an exciting time for the business and the out of home sector, the fastest growing sector in the Australian media landscape,” he said.

“It’s been a privilege to lead SBS and work alongside such a talented and committed team. I’m incredibly proud that today we’re reaching the biggest audiences in our history, producing more original local content than ever, and doing it with a credibility we’ve earned, not claimed,” Taylor said.

Acting SBS chairperson Christine Zeitz said Taylor has been an outstanding leader for SBS, delivering a world-class digital transformation at a challenging time for the industry.

"SBS On Demand is the highest rated Australian app on the Apple and Android app stores, last year SBS was named as Australia’s most trusted news, and SBS currently enjoys the highest total revenues in its history.

O’Connor will remain with the company until January to ensure a smooth transition. SBS said its board of directors will immediately begin a recruitment process to recruit a new managing director.