Southern Cross Austereo head of digital strategy Chris Derrick set to depart the business

Southern Cross Austereo has announced that Chris Derrick, head of digital strategy will be leaving the business.

Derrick joined SCA in 2015 and was instrumental in SCA’s successful on-boarding and management of the Vevo relationship in 2016 through to Vevo’s recent decision not to renew any international sales partnerships.

Says John Kelly, chief operating officer, SCA: “Chris has made an enormous contribution to the future strategy of SCA’s digital business.”

Most recently, Derrick negotiated commercial agreements with Google, Amazon and other companies with home connected devices, to see SCA be the first commercial radio company in Australia to launch services on smart speakers.

He also represented SCA as co-chair on the IAB’s audio council and on the CRA’s app committee.

However with the Vevo relationship ending, both parties have agreed now is the appropriate time for Derrick to pursue new opportunities.

Says Derrick: “I’m proud to have played a role in SCA’s innovation in the digital audio environment but now is the appropriate time to seek a new adventure.”