Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) has announced that its head of digital strategy, Chris Derrick, will be leaving the business.
Derrick joined SCA in 2015 and was instrumental in the radio network’s successful on-boarding and management of the Vevo relationship in 2016, through to Vevo’s recent decision not to renew any international sales partnerships.
SCA chief operating officer John Kelly said Derrick has made an “enormous contribution” to the future strategy of the company’s digital business.
Most recently, Derrick negotiated commercial agreements with Google, Amazon and other companies with home connected devices to see SCA be the first commercial radio company in Australia to launch services on smart speakers.
He also represented SCA as co-chair on the IAB’s audio council and on Commercial Radio Australia’s app committee.
However, with the Vevo relationship ending, both parties have agreed now is the appropriate time for Derrick to pursue new opportunities.
Commenting on his departure, Derrick said: “I’m proud to have played a role in SCA’s innovation in the digital audio environment, but now is the appropriate time to seek a new adventure.”