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09th Jul 2023

Rory Coveney announces resignation from RTÉ

Simon Kelly

Another big name steps down from RTÉ.

Rory Coveney has announced that he is to step down from his role as RTÉ’s Director of Strategy with immediate effect.

In a statement, Mr. Coveney said: “I met with [RTÉ Director General Kevin Backhurst] over the past few days and told him I believed the tough job ahead of him would be made somewhat easier if he had a fresh lead team.

“I’ve tendered my resignation immediately to give him the space to do that. Having worked with Kevin before, I’ve absolute faith in him. He’s the right person to rebuild the national broadcaster. I wish him the very best.”

Last week, Coveney was grilled in front of the Oireachtas committee about the financial failings of Toy Show: The Musical. The former Director of Strategy was adamant that those who attended the show “loved it” and that the loss was not down to a lack of effort on the broadcaster’s behalf.

“We took a unique commercial risk”, Coveney stated, before adding that the organisation had received “a lot of advice from theatre and musical theatre” before launching the show.

Kevin Bakhurst, Director-General, RTÉ, added: “I want to express my sincere thanks to Rory for his significant contribution to public service media during his time in RTÉ. As Strategic Adviser to the Director General, and latterly as Director of Strategy, Rory steered the organisation through a period of unprecedented change in media, while overseeing RTÉ’s complex strategy and public affairs units.

“His diligence, energy and insight were hugely appreciated by many across the organisation. I wish him the very best for the future”

Coveney has worked for RTÉ since 2007 in a variety of roles. He previously worked for Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

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