Facebook names new Australian boss

Facebook has promoted its head of retail and automotive business Stephen Scheeler to become the new managing director of Australia and New Zealand. Supplied

Facebook has promoted its head of retail and automotive business Stephen Scheeler to become the new managing director in Australia and New Zealand, replacing Will Easton who left for an Asian role at the end of June.

In a statement the social media giant said Mr Scheeler will report in to Dan Neary the vice president of Asia Pacific. The local head of Facebook is largely responsible for sales and marketing issues, with little in the way of technology innovation conducted in the region.  

The company said Mr Scheeler would be working closely with key brands, agencies and clients to drive their business results using Facebook’s various of applications and services.

He has been at Facebook for three years, but previously held senior marketing roles at Westfield, Lion and Subaru. 

Will Easton, departed his role running Facebook in Australia and New Zealand to take a broader role across Asia. Rob Homer

Mr Scheeler said there had never been a more interesting time to be in the industry, due to the pace of change and opportunities to innovate.

“We have an amazing team here at Facebook, a strong roadmap and a fantastic suite of apps and services. I couldn’t be more excited about the next part of the journey,” he said.    

Mr Neary said Mr Scheeler had been promoted due to his success in setting up new commercial partnerships, and his ability to demonstrate “original thinking.”

“I’m a great believer in the Facebook culture of hiring great people and growing their careers throughout the company. Stephen has been a remarkable leader and key part of the established and successful ANZ team,” he said in the statement. 

Facebook said it has 11 million daily users in Australia and 2 million in New Zealand, making it the most popular site in these markets.

Facebook names new Australian boss