IPC chief executive, Sly Bailey, is to replace Philip Graf as chief executive of Trinity Mirror, when he steps down early next year (see Chief Executive Steps Down At Trinity Mirror).
Bailey has been chief executive of IPC since December 1999 and was instrumental in discussions that resulted in the sale of the company to AOL Time Warner in July last year, for £1.15bn (see
AOL Takes IPC Media For £1.15bn). She was also a member of the management team that led the buyout of IPC Media for £860m in January 1998.
Commenting on her appointment, Bailey said: “The chief executive role at Trinity Mirror is one of the key positions in UK media. Trinity Mirror is an ambitious and successful company with strong businesses, a clear growth strategy and enormous opportunities for further development.”
Sir Victor Blank, chairman of Trinity Mirror, added: “The appointment of Sly is tremendous for Trinity Mirror. She has a proven track record in building businesses and brands, excellent media credentials and will bring extra drive and vigour to our national and regional newspapers.”
Bailey joined IPC Media in 1989 as head of divisional classified advertising sales, she joined the Board in 1994 as advertising director before being appointed managing director of IPC tx, the TV listings division, in 1997. Prior to joining IPC, Bailey worked in advertising sales management positions at The Guardian and The Independent.
Commenting on Bailey’s departure, Michael Pepe, president of Time Inc. International, said: “I am disappointed to be losing Sly as the chief executive of IPC Media, but fully appreciate the huge opportunity she has been presented with at Trinity Mirror.”
Bailey’s successor will be announced early next year, but in the interim the IPC Board will report directly to Pepe.
