Senior Appointments Announced at Maori Television

PUBLICITY RELEASE
THURSDAY MARCH 8 2007

Senior Appointments Announced at Maori Television

Maori Television has announced the appointments of Larry Parr (Ngati Raukawa, Muaupoko) as General Manager Programming and Charles Berryman (Ngati Awa) as General Manager Reo and Tikanga.

Mr Parr was appointed to the position after joining Maori Television as Commissioner in 2005 before later moving into the role of Head of Programming. He replaces Tawini Rangihau who resigned late last year. He has an extensive background in television and film, having produced and directed a string of documentaries, drama and movies.

Chief Executive Jim Mather said Mr Parr had made a considerable contribution in his time with the channel. He had been integral in implementing a programming strategy to establish Maori Television as a respected, credible and valued broadcaster. A key achievement was production of the ground-breaking and award-winning ANZAC Day broadcast last year.

“The successful operation of the Programming function is critical to any broadcaster. Effective and insightful leadership of this function is vital, and I look forward to the further contribution that Larry will make as Māori Television continues its development as a world-class indigenous broadcaster,” said Mr Mather.

The establishment of the role of General Manager Reo and Tikanga is regarded as an important one for the channel which wanted to appropriately recognise and acknowledge the status and place of reo and tikanga Maori within the organisation. The role also includes responsibility for staff development and wellbeing, and HR. A key responsibility will be to ensure the alignment of people management practises with relevant tikanga.

Mr Berryman has been promoted from his role as head of staff development. “Charles possesses a wealth of senior managerial experience and leadership. He has proven to be a valued advisor on matters of reo and tikanga and has demonstrated the value of his broad range of skills as a manager, negotiator, educator and advisor,” said Mr Mather. “I am confident that his skills and commitment will lead to the ongoing successful implementation of reo, tikanga and staff development initiatives across our organisation.”

Both positions report directly to the Chief Executive and are effective immediately.

ENDS

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