Netflix appoints Stan’s Amanda Duthie to lead ANZ content

Netflix has hired Amanda Duthie from local streaming rival Stan to oversee its programming in Australia and New Zealand.

Duthie will become content director for ANZ at Netflix and joins following four years as head of originals at Stan, which is owned by Australian broadcaster Nine.

During her time with the streamer, Duthie has been behind series including BBC co-productions The Tourist and Bump, as well as Black Snow and Scrublands.

She previously worked for the ABC and more recently SBS, before taking up her position at Stan in 2021.

Netflix had been on the hunt for a new director of content in Australia and New Zealand following Que Minh Luu’s exit in April, after five years in the role.

Luu joined from the ABC in 2020 as director of local originals in Australia before taking on an expanded remit across the ANZ region.

Minyoung Kim, Netflix’s vice president of content for APAC excluding India, said Duthie’s “exceptional track record as a creative and her highly respected leadership within the local screen industry impressed me deeply.”

She added: “I was particularly struck by her knowledge, passion and expertise, and I look forward to working closely with her to continue the success of the ANZ slate at Netflix.”

Duthie said: “As a fan, I’ve loved seeing how Netflix has helped shape the entertainment scene with such a great mix of local and global show.

“I’ve always been passionate about telling local stories, so can’t wait to build on what’s already been achieved and work with all the talented creative partners across ANZ to take our content even further.”

Another Matchbox addition

Netflix has also added another former Matchbox Pictures exec to its ranks, with the hire of Katherine Slattery.

The former scripted development manager at Matchbox joins as content manager for ANZ, with her hiring following the exit of former Matchbox exec Hannah Pembroke.

Pembroke had worked across acquisitions and originals for Netflix in Australia and New Zealand, but departed the streamer in June after four years in the role.

Slattery said: “Netflix’s reputation for entertainment is unparalleled, and I can’t wait to work with Amanda, the ANZ team, and all our talented creatives to expand on the incredible legacy of our region with new shows that challenge and excite audiences.”