appointments 
Chuck Smeeton has been appointed to the position of publishing director of News Limited’s News Magazines division, replacing Phillip Barker who was appointed managing director earlier this month. Smeeton is currently publishing director with ACP Custom Media and general manager of Q-media, the joint publishing venture between Qantas and PBL.

Barker says News Magazines was looking for growth opportunities and sharpening its current operation and the appointment of Smeeton would be key to both those objectives.

"Chuck is an experienced media executive who combines great strategic, operational and financial skills with excellent creativity. He will be a fantastic asset to News Magazines as he focuses his abilities and experience on our development," says Barker.

"He is a smart operator and we are looking forward to having him contribute to both our developing culture and our expanding business. It’s fantastic an executive of this calibre, who has a great experience and an established track record at building a publishing business, is joining our team."

Smeeton began his publishing career as a freelance journalist and photographer in 1987 after three years working in Thredbo in management and marketing.

He has been involved in several magazine launches and editorships including editor of Australian Playboy magazine for four years. In 1998 he became editorial director of EMAP Australia’s action sports division and moved into custom publishing in 1999 as editorial director of EMAP Contract.

In March 2000, Smeeton moved to ACP as publishing director of Foxtel Magazine. During his time with ACP, his responsibilities included editorial responsibilities for ACP Custom, being appointed general manager Q-Media and managing the transition of TV Week from Pacific to ACP. He was appointed publishing director ACP Custom Media in January 2003.

"I am tremendously excited about joining News Magazines’ team," says Smeeton.

"The genuine commitment to building their magazine business and the exciting and innovative approach they are taking, has really impressed me. I look forward to being part of the future at News."