After only a year as Director of News and Current Affairs at Seven West Media, and before the ink is dry on their slated purchase of Southern Cross Austereo’s (SCA) television assets, Anthony De Ceglie is departing to become CEO of the Perth Bears.

The Perth Bears will become the 18th team in the NRL competition in 2027. De Ceglie was formerly Editor-In-Chief of the West Australian newspaper.

Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman, Peter V’landys AM said:

“To succeed in Perth, you need a well connected local who knows how to get things done and has a can do attitude. Anthony is a brilliant operator with a proven track record and a genuine Western Australian, and I am excited about what he can do for us as we grow rugby league in the WA market.”

The Australian (subscription required) has reported that fellow West Australian Ray Kuka, the current 7NEWS Perth News Director and Deputy Director of News will replace De Ceglie.

How CEO Kerry Stokes is feeling after this challenging first and now only year for De Ceglie with Seven remains to be seen.