Media Federation of Australia appoints new chair and deputy chair

Nathan Jolly

March 12, 2026 11:27

Media Federation of Australia appoints new chair and deputy chair

Imogen Hewitt, Aimee Buchanan, and Sophie Madden

The Media Federation of Australia (MFA) has appointed WPP Media ANZ CEO Aimee Buchanan as its chair, alongside Imogen Hewitt, Spark Foundry ANZ CEO and Publicis Groupe CMO as deputy chair.

The MFA is the industry body for Australian media agencies. The pair will be tasked with guiding its strategic direction and “the priorities of the board to support a strong media industry”.

Buchanan and Hewitt have each served on the MFA board for six years. Buchanan succeeds Mark Coad as chair, while Hewitt takes over from the previous deputy chair, Virginia Hyland. They both stepped down after leaving their respective roles at IPG Mediabrands and Havas Media.

The board also appointed Chris Ernst, Dentsu’s chief practice officer of media, to the seat vacated by Fiona Johnston.

MFA CEO Sophie Madden said: “Aimee and Imogen are not just exceptional leaders – they are passionate champions for our industry. Both have spent years stepping up: mentoring talent, pushing for progress and helping shape a stronger, more inclusive media community.

“They bring energy, vision and deep industry respect to these roles. I couldn’t be more excited to work alongside them on the board as we tackle the challenges ahead and keep building an industry we’re proud of as changers.”

Madden also thanked Coady and Virginia for their “outstanding leadership and the lasting contribution they’ve made to both the MFA and the broader industry.”

Buchanan said she is “deeply honoured to partner with Sophie Madden, Imogen Hewitt and the rest of the board to continue to improve and keep pushing for meaningful change that sets our industry up for the future.”

Hewitt said she is looking forward to “strengthening our industry – not only the work we deliver, but the culture, trust and opportunity we create for our people.”