SBS announces new Head of Editorial for Online and Emerging Platforms
SBS has appointed Ben Naparstek as its new Head of Editorial, Online and Emerging Platforms.
Ben has an impressive track record of leading editorial teams to produce everything from agenda-setting investigations to great lifestyle journalism, coming to SBS with more than six years’ experience at the helm of Fairfax Media’s Good Weekend, and national politics and culture magazine, The Monthly.
As SBS’s Head of Editorial, Online and Emerging Platforms, Ben will be responsible for the overall editorial strategy for the SBS online network. Charged with commissioning and acquiring content, he will also oversee the development, production and publishing of content across the SBS websites, and will play a key role in SBS’s range of innovative cross platform initiatives.
Marshall Heald, Director of TV and Online, says: “We’re thrilled to have Ben come on board in this important role as we continue to push the boundaries and explore new ways to bring SBS content to life online, and deliver on our Charter in new and innovative ways. Ben brings some impressive experience to the position, as well as a clear commitment to producing high quality content and finding new ways to engage with audiences in a competitive media landscape. We welcome him to the team.”
Ben says: “While I’m sad to leave Fairfax, I’m thrilled to be joining an organisation that’s at the cutting edge of digital innovation while serving the nation’s diverse communities with first-rate journalism. This is an exciting time for SBS, and I look forward to maximising the audience for the network, across different platforms and devices, by experimenting with new ways of telling and delivering great stories.”
Over his three and a half years at Good Weekend, Ben saw the title win multiple awards including three Walkleys, saw the average time readers spent with the magazine increase, and also launched the magazine as a digital brand. As editor of The Monthly, he significantly grew readership and successfully extended the magazine beyond its monthly print edition into a dynamic online publication.
Ben will commence in the role on Monday 10 August.