ARN confirms CEO succession as Ciaran Davis steps down

ARN Media has announced a leadership transition, with long-serving CEO and managing director Ciaran Davis set to step down from the role on 15 January 2026. Davis has also resigned from the board effective immediately.

He will be succeeded by current chief operating officer Michael Stephenson, who joined the company earlier this year and brings nearly three decades of media experience.

The board thanked Davis for his 16 years of leadership, crediting him with driving growth and innovation across a rapidly evolving media landscape. His tenure included the launch of iHeartRadio in Australia, the recruitment of high-profile talent, and the strategic divestment of assets including Adshel and a stake in Soprano Design.

His departure comes days after Seven West Media and Southern Cross Austereo announced plans to merge. Davis said the timing was right for a leadership change, with a clear transformation strategy in place and a capable successor ready to take the reins.

SEE MORE: Seven and Southern Cross Media agree to merge

“It has been a privilege to lead ARN Media over the past 16 years, working alongside a talented and passionate team,” Davis said. “With a clear transformation strategy in place and an excellent successor in Michael, I believe now is the right time to step aside.”

Stephenson will work closely with Davis and the board over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition. He described the appointment as an honour and said the business was well positioned to pursue new opportunities.

“We have the biggest stars, the best brands, a global streaming platform and an incredible team,” Stephenson said. “We have a bold vision for the future and are well positioned to take advantage of a range of new and emerging opportunities.”

Chairman Hamish McLennan said the succession plan would ensure continuity for the business, adding that Stephenson’s deep industry experience made him the ideal candidate to lead ARN Media into its next phase.