Paora Maxwell has officially been welcomed into his new role as CEO of Māori Television at Te Puea Marae in Mangere this morning.
Around 300 people consisting of Māori Television staff as well as whānau and supporters of Maxwell have gathered at the Marae this morning to endorse his new integral role leading the indigenous broadcaster. The contingent is expected to travel to Māori Television following the ceremony at the Marae.
At the initial announcement of his appointment in March, Maxwell told staff, “he is honoured and humbled to be in the position” and that he is not looking at making any "radical changes in the short term."
"MTS already makes some fantastic television. I look forward to working with the team at MTS to continue to build this unique and innovative broadcaster into a world class television station,” he says.
The process of appointment for the new CEO of Māori Television was marred with controversy following reports that a number of staff had signed a petition against Maxwell getting the job. Former Māori TV CEO Jim Mather also cautioned the Board that Maxwell's appointment could possibly result in the loss of some senior staff.
There was also speculation and reports which surfaced claiming Maxwell was being bought on board to 'reign in new and current affairs.'
Those were claims vehemently denied by Māori TV Board Chair Georgina Te Heuheu and Mr Maxwell.
Paora Maxwell takes over from interim Chief Executive Alan Withrington who filled the role after Jim Mather's departure to become CEO of Te Wananga o
.
Tonight Te Kāea will bring you all the details.