In an email sent to staff, News Corp Australia CEO Michael Miller (Above) said the conversations with “the most logical acquirer” of the regional and community titles “have not resulted in a transaction”. It isn’t clear what the sticking point was  for the deal, but sources say the titles included in the sale could not be agreed upon.

“Today, I am announcing senior executive and editorial appointments and changes to accelerate News Corp Australia’s focus on being a more digital, growth-orientated company,” said Miller in the note.

“In recent weeks we have been undertaking a review of our Australian portfolio and structures and have had discussions with the most logical acquirer of our regional and community titles.

“Those discussions have not resulted in a transaction and we are now considering alternative structures to best focus News Corp Australia on maximising digital and growth opportunities.

“As part of this strategic direction, the new appointments I am announcing today will position us to be more effective in driving further success in the growth areas News Corp is excelling in such as travel, food, digital advertising products and solutions, and digital subscriptions.”

PortMac.News understands that no redundancies have come as part of the change, however the business has lost roles over the last few months as it handles the impact of COVID-19.

Neil Monaghan has been appointed managing director, business services group and Kate de Brito, editor-in-chief of news.com.au will now report directly to Miller.

The Sunday Telegraph editor Mick Carroll will expand his remit to include national weekend editor, overseeing the entire weekend portfolio of News Corp and News Local publisher John McGourty has been named national editor, Community Masthead Network.

“We are well positioned for future success – today’s appointments and changes will further enable us to sharpen our focus on our market leadership in digital and growth sectors,” concluded Miller.

It was revealed last week in News Corp reporting that News Corp Australia’s revenue had fallen 45% in April. Media companies are expecting similarly low figures in May.

Story By | Hannah Blackiston