After confirmation that Cathal Goan is leaving his role as director general of RTE, the search for a replacement begins. According to insiders, obvious potential contenders include Noel Curran, who left his job as director of television just a few months ago, but who might consider a return.
Conor Hayes, RTE’s financial controller, is also high on the list. Hayes, a former Ryanair chief executive, was regarded as a strong contender for the director-general role back in 2003, when it went to Goan.
He has been the key player in developing RTE’s digital television strategy, which is a big issue for RTE as it faces a switch-off of the analogue signal by 2012.
Clare Duignan, currently managing director of radio, has a background in television and radio programming. Ed Mulhall, managing director of news, is also a possible contender.
Both Duignan and Mulhall would have common ground with Goan, whose extensive programming background made him popular among editorial staff in particular.
The current head of television, Glen Killane, is less likely to be in the frame as he has just taken over the role from Curran. Geraldine O’Leary, head of advertising sales, was rumoured to have been considered for head of television, so may also be a contender.
Despite occasional controversies – such as calls for him to be sacked over RTE’s coverage of the Brian Cowen nude portraits – Goan kept a low profile outside RTE. Inside the national broadcaster, he is well-respected.
Goan is expected to remain at RTE until October, pending interviews for his successor.
Tags: Cathal Goan, RTE
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