The Melbourne Press Club today announced Cathy Bryson as the organisation’s new CEO.
Bryson joins the Melbourne Press Club from the National Press Club in Canberra, where, as Marketing and Sales Manager, she worked closely with media, sponsors and news makers across Australia.
Melbourne Press Club Interim President and Acting CEO Eileen Berry said Bryson’s experience and approach made her an obvious choice for the role.
“We’re pleased to have attracted Cathy Bryson as our new CEO,” Eileen said.
“She’s worked alongside senior journalists at the National Press Club, secured heavy-hitters from business and politics for agenda-setting events and ensured the club’s financial future through great relationships with sponsors. In the end, Cathy’s compelling credentials meant the Board’s recruitment sub-committee had no hesitation in recommending her for the role.”
“Cathy has an excellent network across Australia’s media, political and business sectors, which complements our organisation’s existing strong reach in Victoria.”
Bryson, who will relocate to Melbourne to take up the position in early April 2020, said she was looking forward to building on the club’s rich history.
“The Melbourne Press Club has such a long and proud record of celebrating and supporting the very best of Australian journalism and I can’t wait to be a part of that,” she said.
“I was fortunate to attend the Quill Awards earlier this month. In the current climate, the Quills reminded us how important it is to recognise excellence in journalism. It will be an honour to oversee next year’s presentation of these coveted awards.
“I’m also looking forward to building on the Melbourne Press Club’s program of events for young and working journalists, with more training, more networking and more industry partnerships.”
Bryson takes over the position from Acting CEO Eileen Berry, who will remain on the Board as the club’s Interim President.
Vice President Ashlynne McGhee thanked Eileen for stepping up while the club searched for its new CEO.
“Eileen Berry is one of the stalwarts of the Melbourne Press Club and we couldn’t be more grateful to her.”
“Under Eileen’s leadership, the team pulled off the 25th Quills in spectacular style while managing a busy calendar of events,” Ashlynne said.
Melbourne Press Club sponsor, Hope & Glory, a media, marketing and communication recruitment specialist, provided pro bono advice and support in the search for the new CEO. The club extends its gratitude to Matt Harrison and Sophie Veale for their expertise.