NOVA Entertainment have confirmed the appointments of Mary Datoc and Michael McPhee to the roles of Network Managing Editor and Announcer/Operations Manager respectively.
Strengthening the programming leadership team in the senior role of Network Managing Editor, Mary Datoc (pictured with Peter Clay) will oversee the enhancement, growth and evolution of programming content for Nova 96.9 and the smooth Network.
Mary returns to NOVA Entertainment after working closely with Peter Clay as Producer for smoothfm’s weekend and guest presenters for close two years, during the launch of the station.
Her career spans over 25 years of global media and entertainment industry expertise including 10 years in senior roles with Channel V as Head of Talent and Artist Relations, Head of Programming, Head of On Air Promo and Creative Services, consulting for MTV based in Seoul localising MTV’s international programming content for Asian markets before joining smoothfm, a stint with MC Saachi and playing an integral role in the launch of the Italian Food and Wine Festival.
Mary says, “I’m enjoying a warm welcome from the Nova and smooth teams and after many years away it’s like coming home. I started my radio journey with Peter Clay, joined the smooth team for the early years and have gone full circle to now. After spending years in music television in Australia and Asia, a stint in events and advertising, returning to radio is exciting. Nova and smooth are such loved stations I’m so proud to be part of the special team behind it all.”
Moving from Star 104.5 in the Central Coast, Michael McPhee’s appointment to Announcer
and Operations Manager Nova 96.9 Sydney is a great example of Nova’s commitment to internal career development. In this role Michael will be responsible for the programming operational aspects for Nova 96.9, the Nova network shows as well as his role as announcer.
Bringing a wealth of experience in regional and metro commercial radio, Michael’s passion for the medium was evident at a young age, creating his own radio station for a primary school project. Having got his start at 18 years old at 92.9 FM Tamworth, Michael then moved into the role of Music Director Operations for SCA before joining Star 104.5 station in Gosford as Assistant Music Director and Announcer.
Head of Programming, Peter Clay, says “I couldn’t be happier to have Mary re-join the team in a role that will assist me across both brands and play a major part in all programming decisions moving forward. Michael has proven his talent during his time with Star 104.5, came highly recommended by Shayne Sinclair Star 104.5 Program Director and is a great example of the opportunity for career development within the business. We are always wanting to surround ourselves with the best people in the industry, so it is with great pleasure that I welcome Mary and Michael to these pivotal roles in programming, and to the Nova and smooth family”.
Both Mary and Michael will be based in Sydney and will report to Peter Clay.