Congratulations on your new role! What are you most looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to working closely with all of our sales team across the country, our clients and the increased involvement with Lee Sears and our broader business.  Although I’m not looking forward to some of the meeting times that line up our international markets!

What challenges are you most focused on in your new role?

I worked with Rod for a long time and he leaves big shoes to fill. My immediate focus is to ensure our team continues to deliver great results for this business and maintains our strong reputation in market. Our role is to deliver budget across all of our platforms – Metro TV, Regional TV, 10 Streaming and Paramount+.  We sell in an ad market that continues to fluctuate – our focus is on creating revenue opportunities that can overcome any challenges.

What do you love most about working at Paramount?

The people we work with. This business has always had great people, who are passionate about the product and make every day a good experience. Businesses are nothing without the people that drive them. I’ve met some amazing people through this business and made some great friendships. I met my wife working here!

What’s something about the industry now that would surprise your younger self starting out?

Bearing in mind it was 1998… the rapid rate of change, fuelled by technology would have left me speechless. At that point in time, TV was the biggest advertising platform – Sunday night premiere movies, one channel and no avails for the next two months! To think that little thing called the internet would enable the consumption of MasterChef, live, without an aerial connection, on my phone, sitting on a bus, complete with ads targeting me specifically…crazy. To think my Nokia 6110 would be obsolete and Apple would produce something with a screen? No way.

Who is the Grant Madigan outside of Paramount? What would we find you doing on the weekends?

The Grant Madigan you see at Paramount is the person you see outside of Paramount too. Throughout my career I have tried to be me, for good or bad, when at work. On the weekends, you’ll find me somewhere in Sydney, driving my kids to sport, school events and their ever-expanding social activities. I still play soccer myself. These days in the over 35’s and always try to find time to watch the Bulldogs in the NRL. Both of which will determine my mood for the weekend.

What are you currently watching or recommending to everyone?

I am currently working through the back catalogue of South Park on Paramount+.  It’s a classic and there are so many episodes I haven’t seen! I’ve also just finished the first season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms on HBO Max. Very different to Game of Thrones, but it’s a great watch.