The group says that O'Neil is a highly experienced media, broadcasting and marketing specialist.

According to the group, O'Neil is a thought leader and is one of the most respected doyennes in the industry.

Her public service includes serving on the SABC board from 2010 to 2013, which returned the broadcaster back to solvency.

She has also stewarded and transformed an Out-of-Home sales agency that focused on empowering Young Black Women. In 2005, O'Neil was named one of the top five Women in Media at the MTN Women in Media Awards.

O'Neil will coordinate Primedia's operational growth through:
  • upscaling synergies across the group
  • directing group marketing and research strategies, and
  • unpacking new innovative data initiatives.
Primedia group's chairperson Phumzile Langeni says, "With O'Neil's passion for transforming businesses and developing talent, she is set to make a significant contribution to Primedia. Her extensive mentoring of young talent, particularly of young women, will be of immense value."

Langeni adds, "O'Neil's appointment as Primedia's COO comes at a time when the board and the CEO, Jonathan Procter, are purposefully focusing on ensuring that young female talent throughout our businesses is recognised and uplifted in line with our holistic transformation agenda."

O'Neil says, "I view my role as one of facilitator. It is my job to create an environment that ensures and delivers on the overall corporate strategy. My passion lies not only in optimising operations and ensuring that they are future-fit but in developing people."

"One of the things that drew me to this position is that Primedia is an increasingly creative place, abundant with young enthusiastic talent. I look forward to working with the team at Primedia," O'Neil concludes.

For more information, visit www.primediabroadcasting.co.za. You can also follow Primedia Broadcasting on Facebook or on Twitter.