The ABC has already interviewed for a replacement director of news and will “imminently” move forward a fresh hire after the surprising exit of a key executive this week.
Managing director Hugh Marks addressed Senate estimates on Thursday, a day after Justin Stevens announced his departure from the key post after four years for “reasons both professional and personal”.
Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson, the coalition’s communications spokeswoman, said it “very much looks like he was pushed … and was on the chopping block” for recent controversies.
While not commenting on Mr Stevens’ situation, Mr Marks said the decision allowed the organisation to renew.
“It’s an opportunity, obviously, for the ABC to enter into a new phase of operations, where we look to, you know, refresh and rejuvenate our output … to make sure that we’re future fit,” he said.
Reports have suggested the ABC will look to bring in an outsider, with Mr Marks – a former head of media giant Nine – saying only they had landed “someone of the highest calibre”.
The Guardian has named Simon Robinson, the London-based executive editor at global newswire Reuters, as Mr Stevens’ successor.
Before senators on Thursday, Mr Marks said he had already interviewed candidates for the position, and he was of the view that a “globally experienced executive is the right thing at this point in time for the ABC”.
“I’ve met a number of people over the years who might be opportunities for that role. I expect an announcement will be made imminently, and we will proceed with a candidate who I think has the potential to lead the organisation’s editorial into a bright future,” he said.
The impartiality of the national broadcaster, consistently seen as one of Australia’s most trusted and beloved organisations, but increasingly under fire from conservative politicians, was also questioned by senators.
Senator Henderson said the description by ABC chair Kim Williams – who was absent from proceedings despite a request for him to appear – of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an “aberrant creature” was appalling.
“What sort of standard is that when you’ve got the chair of the ABC indulging in that sort of personal criticism?” Senator Henderson asked Mr Marks.
Mr Marks said the “less than desired” comments were regretted by Mr Williams, which were his personal view and not that of the ABC.
Mr Williams said the comments were made of Mr Netanyahu’s leadership of Israel compared with past leaders, and should not be considered criticism of Israel.
Mr Marks rejected suggestions of systemic bias.
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