AJ Koch and Will Hayward.
Private Media CEO Will Hayward is stepping down after five years leading the company.
Hayward will retain his responsibilities until a new CEO takes over in the coming weeks.
He has confirmed his next role will be in media but not in competition with Private Media.
Since he became CEO five years ago, Private Media has tripled in size, significantly expanding its digital footprint.
“Will has been an extremely successful leader at Private Media,” said Eric Beecher, private media founder and chairman.
“He leaves the company in its strongest-ever position, and we wish him all the best for his next chapter.”
Hayward has worked in publishing throughout his career, beginning at The Economist before roles at Dow Jones and BuzzFeed.
He joined Private Media through its Smart Company brand in 2019.
"Leading Private Media has been the highlight of my career," said Hayward.
"I'm grateful to Eric and the board for their support, and I look forward to working closely with my successor to ensure the company doesn't miss a beat during this handover."
Private Media has appointed a new CEO, whose identity will be announced in the coming weeks.
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