News Corp-owned real estate listings juggernaut REA Group has announced that Owen Wilson will replace Tracey Fellows as CEO.

Fellows is stepping down from her role as CEO in January 2019 to become president of global digital real estate at News Corp, with her new position based in New York.

Wilson joined REA Group in 2014 as chief financial officer and has been responsible for all aspects of the company’s finance portfolio including strategy, M&A and operations.

Prior to REA Group, Wilson was chief financial officer and company secretary at Chandler MacLeod Group, leading the finance and M&A functions.

Wilson has an extensive background as an executive leader with deep strategic and operational experience, having previously held positions with ANZ and KPMG across Australia, Asia and the UK.

REA Group chairman Hamish McLennan said: “Owen has played a critical role in REA Group’s growth. He has a deep understanding of the company, our long-term strategy and the importance of our customers in driving business success.

“The board has worked closely with Owen over the past four years in his capacity as chief financial officer, and we are excited by his vision for the future of REA.

“The board has a long-term commitment to succession planning, and I am pleased that this internal appointment reflects the strength of our REA Group talent.”

Commenting on his appointment, Wilson said: “Leading the REA team will be a privilege and I look forward to working with them to continue to deliver our growth strategy both domestically and internationally.

“I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way, especially Tracey.

“REA Group is in a strong position. My priority is to ensure we continue to drive value for our customers and consumers in Australia and Asia.”

Wilson will commence his new role on Monday 7 January 2019.

As part of this leadership change, Henry Ruiz’s role as CEO of REA Group Asia will expand to include the position of chief strategy officer. In this new role, Ruiz will drive REA Group’s long-term growth strategy across Asia and Australia.