Are Media has appointed Kate Kirsten as its new general manager of entertainment, tasking the experienced editorial leader with growing audiences and unlocking new commercial opportunities across its entertainment brands.
Kirsten steps into the role from her position as the publisher’s editorial director, Real Life, which she has held since August 2021.
In her new role, she will oversee content strategy, community growth and commercial development across Woman’s Day, Take 5, that’s life!, New Idea and TV WEEK.
The portfolio reaches 4.7 million Australians each month, with a combined social community of more than 5.7 million.
Kirsten brings more than three decades of journalism and editorial leadership experience to the position, having previously served as editor of Take 5, following more than 15 years as the title’s deputy editor.
Before joining Take 5 in 2005, she also held senior editorial and feature-writing roles at that’s life!.
Are Media director of content and consumer growth Jocelin Abbey said Kirsten’s appointment would help the publisher build on its existing audience relationships and develop new opportunities for growth.
“Our next phase of growth is about moving beyond reach to build stronger, more direct relationships with our audiences,” Abbey said. “Kate combines exceptional editorial judgement with a deep understanding of what makes people return, engage and become part of a community.”
Kirsten said the brands had established strong connections with audiences through their coverage of real-life stories, personalities and television.
“I’m looking forward to working with our talented teams to create new reasons for audiences to spend time with our brands, welcome new readers and followers, and build partnerships that bring something valuable to our communities,” she said.
Kirsten’s appointment is effective immediately and completes Are Media’s new general manager structure under Abbey, joining Nicky Briger, general manager – luxury, and Nicole Waudby, general manager – homes & lifestyle.
