Anthony De Ceglie to leave SWM to lead Perth Bears: Ray Kuka appointed successor

Seven West Media’s Anthony De Ceglie has resigned to become CEO of Western Australia’s new NRL team The Perth Bears. He is to be replaced by Deputy Director of News and Current Affairs and Director of 7News in Perth Ray Kuka, who has been with the station for 20 years.

De Ceglie’s leaves a year after he replaced Craig McPherson. He first joined SWM in 2019 as editor in chief of the West Australian newspapers and has since driven the launch of national digital offering The Nightly.

De Ceglie (above) said: “I have loved every minute of my six-years at Seven West Media, both as Editor-in-Chief of West Australian Newspapers and more recently as the Director of News and Current Affairs at Seven. The support and guidance from everyone has always been incredible and I am forever grateful.”

Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman, Peter V’landys AM said: “To succeed in Perth, you need a well connected local who knows how to get things done and has a can do attitude. Anthony is a brilliant operator with a proven track record and a genuine Western Australian, and I am excited about what he can do for us as we grow rugby league in the WA market.”

SWM CEO Jeff Howard said on Kuka’s promotion: “Ray will build on the drive for high quality journalism that defines our news services. The continued integration with sport and the progress we have made building 7NEWS’ digital presence will also remain priorities. Anthony has made a significant contribution to Seven West, in particular to 7NEWS over the last 12 months, and we wish him all the best for the future in his new role, as CEO of the new NRL team in Perth.”

Kuka (below) said: “I am already so proud to be part of the Seven newsrooms that deliver the best daily stories and the best coverage of major events,” he said. “Now being charged with leading them is next level and a privilege I’ll never take for granted. I love working in television and can’t wait to see what the future brings our staff and our audiences.”

SWM Chairman, Kerry Stokes AC, said: “We thank Anthony for his contribution and leadership and wish him every success in his future role, which sees him return to Perth… The SWM team is full of the best operators in the business. Ray is the ideal person to lead Australia’s number one News and Current Affairs team to an even better future.”