After sixteen years with ARN, Ciaran Davis is stepping down as CEO and Managing Director. He will depart his role at the end of 2025. He will be succeeded as CEO by Chief Operating Officer, Michael Stephenson.

Davis says “It has been a privilege to lead ARN Media over the past 16 years, working alongside a talented and passionate team. With a clear transformation strategy in place and an excellent successor in Michael, I believe now is the right time to step aside. I want to sincerely thank the incredible people at ARN Media I’ve had the pleasure of working with, as well as the Board, our shareholders, and clients for their ongoing support.”

Michael Stephenson said “It is a great honour to lead ARN Media. We have the biggest stars, the best brands, a global streaming platform and an incredible team. We have a bold vision for the future and are well positioned to take advantage of a range of new and emerging opportunities that will benefit our audience, our advertisers and our shareholders.”

The announcement comes a day after news that the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) found seven breaches of Commercial Radio Code of Practice decency rules by ARN’s Kyle and Jackie O KIIS duo last year.

“The Kyle and Jackie O Show has repeatedly and deliberately aired content that is vulgar, sexually explicit and deeply offensive,” ACMA chair Nerida O’Loughlin said.

“Even after previous breaches and the employment of additional censors required by the ACMA, the program continues to broadcast content that is unacceptable to the community.”

Michael Stephenson, currently chief operating officer, meanwhile will assume the role of CEO on January 16 at a starting fixed pay of $1.1 million.