ASTRA Board appointments

Tony Shepherd was re-elected as ASTRA chairman yesterday, as two new members joined the ASTRA Board.

Ben Richardson of Viacom International Media Networks and Jacqui Feeney of Fox International Channels have been elected to two-year terms.

“I am proud to chair this growing board of passionate media executives who are committed to further developing the industry, boosting investment and providing Australians with the highest quality television,” Tony Shepherd said.

“The ASTRA board now includes leaders from many of the world’s largest content companies as well as executives from local channels and distribution platforms.

“We look forward to continuing to advocate for an open and competitive market that encourages investment and innovation,” he said.

In addition to Tony Shepherd the ASTRA board comprises:

Ian Davis, Managing Director, Telstra Television
Patrick Delany, CEO, Fox Sports
Jacqui Feeney, Managing Director, Fox International Channels
Anthony Fitzgerald, CEO, MCN
Angelos Frangopoulos, CEO, Australian News Channel
Richard Freudenstein, CEO, Fox Sports
Lynette Ireland, General Counsel, Foxtel
Andrew Maiden, CEO, ASTRA
Bruce Meagher, Director of Corporate Affairs, Foxtel
Mandy Pattinson, SVP, Discovery Communications
Jon Penn, Managing Director, BBC Worldwide
Ben Richardson, General Manager and SVP, Viacom International Media Networks
Robi Stanton, General Manager, Turner International

Meanwhile CEO Andrew Maiden congratulated Netflix on declaring its intention to enter the Australian market.

“Netflix’s arrival, together with the advent of Stan, is evidence of the growing popularity of subscription-funded content models,” he said.

“As the body representing the local industry, we look forward to welcoming Netflix to Australia early next year.

“ASTRA would enthusiastically represent any subscription-based platform that supports the development of the industry, encourages the production of local content and advocates free and fair competition.”