Christien de Garis poached from ABC Radio for top job in Perth. Geoff Dunn to lead Sydney team on permanent basis.
Seven has poached journalist Christien de Garis from ABC News to become its Perth News Director.
Most recently he has been presenter of the Esperance ABC breakfast program and statewide early mornings in WA. He will take up the new Seven role in October.
Geoff Dunn is also appointed Sydney News Director having been in an acting capacity since late May.
Both will report to Seven’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Ray Kuka.
Perth-born Christien de Garis (pictured) has than two decades’ experience across broadcast news, government communications and branded content. He began his career with Seven West Media’s regional newspapers in Bunbury and Kalgoorlie before moving into broadcast roles with the ABC, Network 10 and Seven Perth.
He worked as a senior crime reporter in Perth and Sydney, and served as a senior advisor in the WA Government.
He has also received three WA Media Awards.
“Christien is a fierce newsman with deep WA roots, strong leadership and a sharp editorial mind. His appointment is a true homecoming, and I’m excited to see him lead this exceptional newsroom,” said Ray Kuka.
“He is an old-school journo who loves exposing hypocrisy, holding power to account and chasing the kinds of stories that get people talking. He also knows how to craft great television – from crime rounds to award-winning current affairs.”
Mr de Garis said: “Coming home to Perth to lead one of the most talented newsrooms in the country is a massive honour.
“I’ve worked with many of the team over the years, as a journalist and as an advisor. That time outside the newsroom only deepened my belief in journalism’s power and purpose. I’m proud to return and help build on the strength, legacy and momentum of 7NEWS Perth.”
Mr de Garis will also join the Seven West Media (WA) Executive Team, reporting to CEO Maryna Fewster.
Ms Fewster said: “Our newsroom is unique in Australian media – a fully integrated news operation that blends the very best of broadcast journalism in 7NEWS with the heart of SWM’s publishing business.
“We have two notably experienced journalists leading our newsroom in Christien and Christopher Dore, the Editor-In-Chief of publishing including The West Australian and The Nightly, who will build a formidable partnership leading their teams that are such an institution in our state.”
As Sydney News Director, Geoff Dunn has spent almost 30 years with 7NEWS Sydney in senior producing and leadership roles, including Executive Producer of Sydney’s 6pm bulletin for more than two decades.
“Geoff knows this newsroom and this city like few others. He’s earned the trust of his team, brings a deep editorial instinct, and leads with calm and clarity. He’s already shown what he can do, and I’m thrilled to officially welcome him to the role,” said Ray Kuka.
Mr Dunn said: “It’s a privilege to lead the Sydney newsroom. This team delivers exceptional journalism every day, and I’m proud to continue working alongside them.”