David Anderson named ABC managing director

David Anderson has been named the permanent replacement for Michelle Guthrie as managing director of the ABC.

Anderson was first appointed to the role in the interim following Guthrie’s axing in September of 2018.

ABC chair Ita Buttrose announced the appointment, revealing the decision by the board had been unanimous.

“The ABC Board resolved unanimously to appoint David Anderson following a national and international search that produced many impressive candidates,” she said in a statement.

“With almost 30 years of service, David’s knowledge of the ABC is unsurpassed.

“He has a deep understanding of audience needs and the Board is confident he has the skills and ability to respond to the challenges of a changing media environment.

“We believe he is the right person to lead the corporation at this time.

“David already enjoys the trust and confidence of the ABC leadership team and staff and he is ideally placed to continue to provide strong leadership and direction.”

Anderson, formerly ABC’s director entertainment & specialist, has been appointed on a five-year contract.

“It is a privilege to be appointed to the role, overseeing one of Australia’s most loved and respected cultural institutions,” Anderson said.

“I look forward to continuing to lead the ABC and allowing our talented teams to get on with what the ABC does best: serving the Australian people, delivering Australia’s finest agenda-setting news and current affairs, hosting conversations and telling stories that look and sound like Australia.”

Michelle Guthrie received a payout of $800,000 after her axing from the role, just two years into her five-year contract.

The AFR then reported that the ABC settled with Guthrie for an additional $500,000 after she sued the public broadcaster for unfair dismissal.

The backlash from Guthrie’s dismissal saw former chair Justin Milne resign from his role.