Mamamia, the Australian digital media company founded by Mia Freedman, is navigating a period of significant internal change, including the promotion of Luca Lavigne, Freedman's son, to the position of CEO. The announcement of his appointment, made internally just before being revealed to the wider industry via Mumbrella, has drawn industry attention.
Lavigne, 28, who joined Mamamia as a writer in 2016, has risen through the ranks to become CEO. He addressed potential "nepo baby" critiques by acknowledging his decade-long tenure and emphasizing his experience within the company. Mamamia has stated that Lavigne's promotion was a carefully managed succession.
The company has also seen shifts in its flagship daily podcast, "The Quicky." Following the redundancy of its host, Claire Murphy, several key members of the podcast's team have departed. Lu Hill, studio manager and audio producer, left in May to join Guardian Australia. Executive producer Taylah Strano also announced her exit. Ilaria Brophy, formerly Group Executive Producer overseeing "The Quicky," "Well.," and "True Crime Conversations," has also stepped down from her role.
Charlotte Mortlock has been announced internally as the new host and producer of "The Quicky," commencing July 27. Mortlock brings a background as a political reporter and news anchor for Sky News and previously served as an advisor within the Liberal Party. She also founded Hilma's Network, a group focused on increasing female representation in politics, and later established Something Better Australia, a party aiming to offer a centrist alternative. Mortlock's prior roles included working for former Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack. Her appointment follows her departure from the Liberal Party after internal campaigns for increased female representation faced resistance.
Mortlock is also acquainted with Mamamia veterans Jessie and Clare Stephens, though the notes indicate Clare has since left the company and Jessie is on maternity leave and was not involved in the recruitment process. Claire Murphy, the ousted host, is now producing her own independent podcast, "The Solo Bureau."
Amidst these changes, questions regarding executive compensation have surfaced. A previous report by News.com.au columnist Annette Sharp claimed Luca Lavigne earned a $300,000 salary as chief operating officer, a figure disputed by Lavigne and his wife, Jessie Stephens. Mamamia has stated that several female employees currently earn more than Lavigne, a detail that has reportedly puzzled some industry observers. The company has declined to discuss specific remuneration details but indicated it is a workplace where women, on average, earn more than men.