Nine Audio unveils national commercial leadership team

Nine’s audio division has finalised its national commercial leadership team, marking a pivotal step as the sales function transitions to a new strategic model.

Following the recent announcement of Amanda Unwin as Sydney Sales Director, Nine Audio has now confirmed the appointment of several experienced sales and operational executives.

Christine Lester will join as Melbourne Sales Director in mid-August. Christine brings extensive experience from SCA, where she led Independent and Direct teams since 2018.

Michael Graham will also join in mid-August as Brisbane Sales Director. Moving from his commercial leadership role at Car Expert, Michael previously held senior leadership positions at SCA, ARN and Nova in the Brisbane market.

Noel Quick, currently a Group Business Director at Nine Perth, assumed the role of Sales Director for Nine Audio on July 1. He brings extensive experience from his time leading SCA in the region. He will continue his GBD responsibilities across the broader Nine group until September 30, when he transitions to full-time as Sales Director Nine Audio.

Jonathon Mandel has been appointed National Head of Digital Sales, joining from independent digital agency Bolster, where he served as Head of Media. Prior to Bolster, Mandel was Head of Digital Product and Operations for LiSTNR.

Rick Lenarcic, currently National Head of Direct Sales, will transition into the role of Head of Sales Operations. Rick brings over 30 years of media experience, including roles as COO of Grant Broadcasters/ARN Regional and Head of Regional Media SCA.

Chris Gregson will lead the Powered Audio team, integrating with the existing creative assets of the Nine Radio business.

Brian Gallagher, Nine Audio Commercial Director, said “It is an absolute privilege to have attracted executives of this caliber to lead the commercial teams at Nine Radio. As the team progressively onboards over the next couple of months, we will see a new level of competitiveness emerging from our commercial teams across the country. With radio listening continuing to deliver great reach and digital audio audiences growing strongly, our integrated sales approach, led by the industry’s best, positions us to capture great growth in the year ahead.”