Rory Callaghan to join Shine Australia

Former CEO of Southern Star, Rory Callaghan, will join Shine Australia in the newly created role of Executive Director.

This ends speculation about the “new opportunity” he referred to when resigning from Southern Star in January. Both companies are two of the biggest producers of television in Australia.

Reporting to President Shine Network & CEO Shine Australia – Mark Fennessy and Managing Director – Matt Campbell, Callaghan will be responsible for all Shine Group formats in Australia & New Zealand in addition to those of Zodiak & Talpa where Shine is the local partner. He will also focus on new and emerging content streams including scripted content.

Mark Fennessy said: “Rory is one of the finest television executives in the business. He brings a wealth of expertise and proven success as an independent producer and provides additional strength to a talented executive team. We’re delighted to welcome him into the Shine family.”

Rory Callaghan said: “In its short history Shine has changed the Australian television landscape and I am thrilled to be joining the most dynamic production company in the country.”

Whilst CEO of Southern Star, Callaghan oversaw such titles as Offspring, Rush, Rescue, Spirited, Puberty Blues, Paper Giants, Deal Or No Deal, Beauty and the Geek and Undercover Boss. Prior to Southern Star, he was Managing Director of Granada Productions, and he spent 10 years at the Nine Network producing programmes.

He will commence later this year.