ABC managing director David Anderson resigns from public broadcaster

ABC managing director David Anderson will leave the public broadcaster in early 2025 after handing in his resignation this week.

Mr Anderson, who was appointed in 2019, has agreed to stay in the role until a new managing director has been recruited in the new year. He was appointed to a second five-year term in 2023.

In a note to ABC staff, Mr Anderson said the decision had not been an easy one.

“I believe it is the right moment for leadership renewal for the next stage of the ABC’s continued evolution,” he said.

“To have the opportunity to serve the Australian public and lead such talented and dedicated people across the country and overseas for what is approaching six years is humbling.

“I am grateful to Kim Williams and the board for their support and their efforts to persuade me to stay on for my full second term. Their unabashed enthusiasm for the importance and future of the corporation makes this decision easier. I am confident the timing is right for both me and the ABC.”

ABC chair Kim Williams said Mr Anderson was a “loyal, devoted and talented ABC executive”.

“I have to say my admiration for him and his commitment to the ABC is undiminished and my respect grows ever greater. He is an exemplary executive in many ways,” he said.

Before stepping into the role of acting managing director in September 2018, Mr Anderson was the director, entertainment and specialist responsible for all ABC radio music networks.

On behalf of the Albanese Government, Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland thanked Mr Anderson for his “dedicated service” at the public broadcaster.

“Mr Anderson has provided an experienced and steady hand at the ABC, having risen through the ranks, and I look forward to seeing the outcome of the appointment process as the ABC continues to fulfil its Charter to inform, educate and entertain all Australians,” she said.