Commercial Radio Australia (CRA) has found its new CEO in recently exited WeAre8 global chief growth officer, Lizzie Young.

Young, who stepped away from the fledgling social media business in March just one year after adding the global remit to her role as APAC chief, has more than two decades of experience in the media industry, including roles at Nine and SCA - both members of CRA.

She replaces Ford Ennals, who exited suddenly from the commercial radio body in April. During his two years at the helm, he oversaw the organisation's rebrand from 'Commercial Radio Australia' to 'Commercial Radio & Audio'. Chief Commercial Officer, Jo Dick, has been acting in the role of CEO since his resignation.

Young herself wrapped up at WeAre8 in March. At the time she told Mi3 the decision had come down to the challenges of working to a global time zone and that she had no immediate plans for her next role.

Prior to joining WeAre8 in 2022, Young rose to prominence in the Australian media industry as the Managing Director - Local Markets, Group Marketing and Commercial Partnerships at Nine, where she worked for 12 years. Her experience in the audio industry is extensive, including seven years at GWR Radio/GCap (now Global Radio) in the UK and four years at Austereo in Brisbane and Sydney.

Young is set to commence her role at CRA on August 7, 2024.