The Seven Network has promoted Gemma Acton to the newly created role of Director of News Operation as the media business rejigs its news department under the leadership of recently appointed Seven Network Director of News and Current Affairs and Seven West Media Editor-in-Chief, Anthony De Ceglie.

Acton, currently serving as Seven's Network Finance Editor, will report directly to De Ceglie in her new role, working closely with him as well as metropolitan and regional news directors, executive producers, and other senior news leaders to drive culture and innovation across newsrooms nationally. She will also be responsible for leading and implementing the division's new digital-first strategy and overseeing budgets.

"Gemma is taking on a crucial role as a leader for our News and Current Affairs teams at a pivotal moment in our business. I’m really excited and confident about how she will help shape the path forward for Seven. Her background and her experience mean she will hit the ground running. She is also extremely well-regarded and respected by her peers. Gemma’s appointment is part of a plan to ensure the news leadership team is well-positioned to seize every future opportunity," said De Ceglie.

Acton brings over 20 years of experience in media, television, and banking in Australia and abroad to her new role. Prior to joining Seven's Sydney newsroom in 2017, she worked as an investment banker and wealth manager at firms including Goldman Sachs and was a correspondent and anchor at CNBC.

"As Seven’s News and Current Affairs division leans into the incredible opportunities that the digital media world offers, I’m excited to work with Anthony and the executive leadership team on empowering our exceptional news teams to carry out their best work. Our newsrooms will be underpinned by a respectful and forward-focused culture where talent, innovation and ideas are given all the tools they need to flourish," Acton said.

Acton holds an MBA/MA from Wharton and the University of Pennsylvania, is a CFA charter holder, and has experience leading and managing large teams. She will reduce her on-air commitments as she takes on the new role immediately, but will continue to regularly appear across the screens of Seven.