Ellie Laing-Southwood Appointed as AOC Chief of Communication and Media

The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has announced Ellie Laing-Southwood GAICD as its new Chief of Communication and Media, set to begin her role in late November 2024. Laing-Southwood brings a multifaceted background, having worked in senior roles across television journalism with networks like Channel Seven, Ten, SBS, and ABC, and in public affairs as Executive Director at the Property Council of Australia.

Her ability to manage complex communications has been shaped by her governance experience, currently serving her second term on the board of Sport NSW, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the state’s sport and active recreation sector. This experience in strategic leadership will be crucial as the AOC navigates upcoming Olympic cycles, ensuring that its messaging aligns with broader sporting and public interests.

Laing-Southwood’s academic credentials also add to her credentials, having previously lectured at Macleay College in Sydney, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation of media professionals. Her extensive background in journalism and public affairs positions her well to elevate the AOC’s communications strategy, as the organisation gears up for high-stakes international events.

By combining media expertise with public affairs and governance insight, Laing-Southwood’s appointment signals a strategic move by the AOC to ensure effective communication across the sporting and public sectors. Her experience with high-level decision-making, alongside her deep involvement in Australian sports, sets the stage for a more cohesive and innovative approach to how the AOC manages its media presence, both domestically and on the global stage.

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