Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) has appointed Clair Weaver to the newly created role of Head of Factual for LiSTNR, effective immediately.

Weaver's appointment comes in the wake of a series of redundancies and departures as the media business, including the exits of Head of News and Information, Melanie Withnall, and LiSTNR Original Podcasts Head of Factual and Drama, Jennifer Goggin. It is understood that Weaver's new role will oversee the newly merged Factual and Drama and News and Information teams.

Previously LiSTNR's Investigations Editor, Weaver brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked across many areas of the News and Information podcast slate.

Her background spans investigative journalism, editorial policy, and news producing, with previous roles span across various media outlets including 60 Minutes, 9News Sydney, The Australian Women’s Weekly, the Sunday Telegraph and London’s Evening Standard.

"Clair’s contributions have been instrumental in the success of The Briefing and her strong understanding of crime reporting and long-form storytelling has contributed to the creation of LiSTNR’s compelling docu-series, including seasons one and two of the highly successful Secrets We Keep," said Executive Head of LiSTNR Podcasts, Grant Tothill.

"Clair is well credentialled to build on the achievements of the teams led by both Melanie Withnall and Jennifer Goggin. I am confident she will provide strong leadership of the newly formed Factual team as LiSTNR continues its investment into a growing sector of the podcast audience landscape, allowing LiSTNR original podcasts to continue to grow the audiences that matter, for improved commercialisation opportunities."

"I’m really excited to take up the reins as we enter a new chapter in Factual. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead a team of such talented, creative, and dedicated people, and I’m looking forward to working with them to create excellent podcasts and continue growing our audiences," said Weaver.