Former News Corp digital officer and NewsLifeMedia CEO Nicole Sheffield has resurfaced as Australia Post’s new executive general manager, community and consumer.

In a statement to media this morning, Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate said of Sheffield’s appointment: “Nicole is an outstanding marketing and business leader who combines a deep understanding of Australian consumers with vast digital experience.

“Most recently, she was chief digital officer for News Corp with responsibility for its entire technology business.

“She also spent four years as CEO of NewsLifeMedia, News Corp’s network of lifestyle websites and customer and consumer magazines; was General Manager of Foxtel’s LifeStyle Channels – where she commissioned programs such as Grand Designs Australia; as well as Group Publisher of Pacific Magazines for Seven West Media,” Holgate said.

Sheffield, who was touted for big things at News, abruptly left the media behemoth in mid-February with little reason given for the departure by either parties. There had been speculation that she quit after she was overlooked for a promotion and tensions with the person who eventually got the job.

At the time, Sheffield said: “I’ve loved my time with News through a period of extraordinary change with so many opportunities and such wonderful content, it has been an incredible experience.

“But with the business soaring I’m ready to pass the baton to an exceptional team and pursue my entrepreneurial spirit,” Sheffield said.