ABC appoints Jessica Radburn to new role as head of audio on demand

The ABC has appointed audio executive Jessica Radburn to the new position of head of audio on demand.

Reporting to the ABC head of audio Ben Latimer, Radburn will lead the ABC’s audio-on-demand strategy including the commissioning and development processes. She will manage the growing podcast slate to ensure it aligns to the ABC’s audience priorities across all its key brands.

Radburn was most recently the head of international podcast content for podcast publisher Wondery where she oversaw all of Wondery’s original podcasts outside of the US. That portfolio included #1 podcast shows Ghost Story, Price of Paradise and Kurt Krömer – Feelings.

Prior to her time with Wondery, Radburn spent five years working in various roles at spoken word entertainment company Audible. She was the senior director of global content programming where she oversaw Audible's multi-language global audio original program. She was also director of original content for Audible in the United States where she was responsible for the strategic development and negotiation of premium audio content with entertainment brands, creators, and celebrities, including DC Comics and the Fox Entertainment Group.

Earlier in her career, Radburn was Audible’s head of content in Australia and New Zealand, overseeing the transformation of its Australian audio strategy from audiobook distribution to content licensor and original content creator.

Of her new role Radburn said: “I am excited to return to Australia and the ABC as the first head of audio on demand. The ABC has a well-earned reputation, internationally and locally, for original and compelling story-telling.

“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to build on that renown, working with some of the country’s best voices and creators to produce shows that connect, inspire and entertain our listeners.”

Of her appointment, ABC head of audio Ben Latimer said: “I am thrilled to have Jessica joining the ABC as our head of audio on demand.

“Jessica’s unparalleled content experience in Australia and internationally will be an invaluable resource for the ABC as we continue to build on our success as one of Australia’s most successful podcast publishers.”

Radford will commence in the role on 1 November.

See also: Podcast Ranker September 2024