Are Media names Maxine Fourie as head of social

Are Media has appointed Maxine Fourie as head of social, effective immediately, as the publisher looks to expand the impact of its social storytelling across platforms with more than 21 million followers.

Reporting to head of audience Zahra Campbell-Avenell, Fourie will lead the strategic development and execution of Are Media’s social content, working closely with editorial, audience and commercial teams to strengthen engagement, grow communities and deepen platform partnerships.

Fourie was most recently social and digital brand manager at Collective Wellness Group, where she led strategy and campaigns for Australia’s largest gym network, Anytime Fitness. She previously held digital and content roles at The Social Seed and began her media career at Bauer Media Group in New Zealand.

“We are delighted to welcome Maxine to Are Media. She brings a brilliant combination of creativity, strategic thinking and deep platform knowledge that makes her the ideal person to lead our social function," Sally Eagle, Are Media’s director of content, said. “Social media and our digital platforms are key engines for audience growth and brand storytelling at Are Media. Maxine’s leadership in this space will propel us forward in building connection, cultural relevance and commercial opportunities.”

Fourie added it was "incredibly exciting" to join Are Media and lead social for some of Australia’s most iconic and influential lifestyle brands. "I’m passionate about the power of social to build and foster communities, as well as tell the stories that matter. There’s a lot of opportunity ahead and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”