Jason Winstanley appointed as next RNZ chief executive
Tuesday 29 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story NZME, Newstalk ZB, Paul Thompson
Jason Winstanley, currently the chief audio officer at NZME, has been named the next chief executive of RNZ. He is set to take over the role in 2027, succeeding Paul Thompson, who will depart the organisation at the end of this year.
Key facts
4 facts
- Jason Winstanley appointed as RNZ chief executive
- Winstanley starts the role in 2027
- Paul Thompson is leaving RNZ after 13 years
- Winstanley is currently the chief audio officer at NZME
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Jason Winstanley has been appointed as the next chief executive of RNZ. He is scheduled to begin the role in 2027.
Winstanley will succeed Paul Thompson, who is departing the organisation at the end of this year following a 13-year tenure. Specific details regarding the transition and Winstanley's exact start date are yet to be confirmed.
Currently the chief audio officer at NZME, Winstanley has a broadcasting career lasting over 25 years. His previous experience includes serving as content director of The Hits, assistant content director at ZM, and head of talk at Newstalk ZB.
RNZ board chair Brent Impey noted that Winstanley stood out from a strong field of candidates. Impey stated that Winstanley "combines a deep understanding of radio audiences with proven experience leading teams and delivering results in a fast-changing media environment".
Compiled from reports by The Post and Stuff.