‘NZ’s going to lose some fantastic talent’

Smart operating and working in an increasingly digital environment will be the issues for this year. In the final of a threepart Media Insider series, we pose seven questions to leading media CEOs.

Glen Kyne, Warner Bros. Discovery vice-president What’s the one word to sum up your mood as we look back on 2023 and look to 2024?

I’ve got two words. Proud; in a tough media environment, the team has gone above and beyond . . . again. And Barbenheimer; a lot of fun and madness amid detailed planning and execution.

How would you describe your year?

One for the ages. We have not endured a market downturn of this scale and duration in recent history; however, we have continued to innovate while also bringing world-class news and entertainment to the nation. From a news perspective, this was one of the busiest years yet with weather events, an election and international conflict.

What’s the best initiative/project/ campaign in your own business — and one you thought a rival did well?

For us, it’s the evolution and development of ThreeNow. We have been clear on our future as a streaming business and we now have a world-class platform bringing the best local and international content to Kiwis for free. When we recently released the new user experience, The Spinoff ran an article titled “Good News: ThreeNow isn’t munted anymore.” Fantastic, and only in New Zealand!

I have huge respect for the NZME operating model and its diversification of advertising and subscriber spend. This is a sustainable path forward which we all need to think about.

Sky has also done a wonderful job this year delivering multiple world cups and key sporting moments. Sport is well and truly back post-Covid and it’s a joy. Sky is also making large strides towards a digital future and has a smart operating model.

How do you think 2024 will play out for New Zealand media — what’s the biggest priority for you?

A game of two halves — the advertising downturn looks set to continue for H1 with corrections and growth in H2 2024. Following the election, we’re looking forward to getting clarity on the Government’s policy settings for our sector as this has a major impact on the health of the local industry.

Our biggest priority remains our pivot to streaming in both the free and paid space, which will deliver the inevitable shift of television viewing into the future and driving growth.

What’s the biggest issue that keeps you awake at night?

My teenage son, who is starting university next year and is exploring his newfound social freedom, typically late into the evening and managing to wake the entire family when he gets home.

What’s the biggest mistake media/ marketing /advertising people need to avoid in 2024?

Under-investing advertising spend in local media companies who are employing local talent and producing local content. In a market downturn of the scale and length that we are experiencing, we have to ensure our local media players remain strong for the benefit of the country. International players continue to drive record revenues while our local entities suffer. Let’s correct this.

What are your plans for the summer break?

I’m going to switch off and enjoy a family vacation — sun, sand, surf, good books and great company.