Nine Sydney news director Simon Hobbs leaves company as hunt continues for bosses in Brisbane and Perth

Nine’s Sydney news director Simon Hobbs is the latest executive from its troubled news division to be leaving the network.

Hobbs, who wasn’t in the office today, won’t be returning to Nine’s North Sydney headquarters but will still be on the payroll until this Friday.

An email to staff suggests Hobbs will help ensure a “seamless transition” as Deputy News Director Margie McLew steps into the role temporarily.

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Any help from Hobbs will be done from his home, according to an email from news boss Fiona Dear to staff.

Simon Hobbs is the latest executive to leave Nine’s troubled News division. Credit: Nine

Last week, Queensland News Director Amanda Paterson was called to a meeting shortly before staff were told she had left the company. The Australian reported she has now engaged lawyers.

Melbourne News boss Hugh Nailon will be taking on expanded responsibilities as the network works to recruit for three News Director roles.

The changes in management at Nine come as the company deals with the fallout of the ‘Intersection’ report into its workplace culture. The report found systemic issues within the company from bullying to sexual harassment.

No names were included in the report, which led to a staff backlash who are demanding accountability.

An official reason for the departure of Hobbs has not been supplied by Nine, but a network spokesperson did provide the following statement: “Nine can confirm further leadership changes were communicated to its TV News division today. An internal and external recruitment process is now underway for News Directors in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth”.

Morale at Nine is reportedly at an all-time low as the company deals with the aftermath of the Intersection report. Those who participated in the investigation are said to be dismayed at the way the company has handled staff complaints.

The sudden departure of Hobbs has shocked the newsroom, with some staff finding out after calls were placed seeking information for this story.