The Middle East’s MBC Group has hired former Nine Network boss Mike Sneesby as CEO, with long-serving incumbent Sam Barnett stepping down.
A note posted today announced the news, with Sneesby joining on May 1. He exited his post as Nine CEO after a damaging year after a report into the Australian network’s work culture revealed allegations of sexual harassment against former news chief Darren Wick.
MBC’s board had accepted Barnett’s resignation, saying it “extends its sincere thanks and appreciation… for his efforts and achievements during his tenure and wishes him continued success in his future endeavors.
MBC called Sneesby an “experienced media executive with deep global experience.” As well as leading Nine Entertainment, he was the founder and CEO of Stan, the Nine-backed Aussie streamer, and led e-commerce platform Cudo as Chief Exec.
He “has demonstrated success in applying global technology trends to local markets, with a strong focus on digital innovation, media growth, and strategic partnerships,” it added. “He has led large-scale commercial, studio, and sports rights deals.”
