Pip Keane. Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
Veteran journalist and news producer Pip Keane has been appointed RNZ's chief audio officer.
The new role was created as "an integral part of RNZ's plan for audio that includes a more focused targeting of the available audience for radio, more training for on-air staff to lift standards, and a greater focus on Auckland to reflect the importance of the region and its population for a public media organisation", the public broadcaster said in a statement on Monday.
Keane has been at RNZ since 2015, her roles including executive producer for afternoon show Checkpoint and interim head of radio. She launched early morning show First Up in 2019 and has produced election night and news specials.
Before coming to RNZ she worked on various radio and TV programmes, including those hosted by John Campbell, Marcus Lush and Paul Holmes.
"What set Pip apart is her demonstrated ability to identify and nurture talent," RNZ chief executive and editor-in-chief Paul Thompson said.
"She has shown she can get the best out of people and do so in a way that delivers for audiences. She is also an audio champion, with an instinct for finding and telling compelling stories and creating strong programmes.
"Her professionalism and focus on audiences while building successful teams will be crucial attributes in this role."
As chief audio officer, Keane will be responsible for developing and executing RNZ's audio strategy - including audio and programming on all platforms (live listening, on-demand and digital).
Keane said having spent almost her entire career in broadcast media she felt prepared for the role.
"This is a challenging and exciting role and I won't do it alone - it is going to be a real team effort. We are fortunate to have a wealth of stand-out talent at RNZ.
"I'm really looking forward to working with everyone across our stations, all audio outputs and all of RNZ to do more for audiences, grow our radio listeners and reach New Zealanders wherever they are."
Keane will start in the Auckland-based role on 13 October.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
