Toxic Culture Exposed: Seven West Media Review Uncovers Sexism, Bullying, and Harassment

A recent review of the corporate culture at Seven West Media has uncovered a toxic work environment, with widespread allegations of sexism, bullying, and harassment. The 65-page review, conducted by independent consultancy Interchange, was completed in July 2024 but has not been made public.

Culture of Fear and Intimidation

The review, which included interviews with employees, executives, and advertising clients, painted a damning picture of a company where "immoral, unethical and illegal behaviour has been prevalent for a very long time." One anonymised NSW Seven West leader told the review: "Immoral, unethical and illegal behaviour has been prevalent for a very long time."

Another interviewee described a culture of fear and intimidation, saying: "There are people in this office every day crying and there is nothing I can do about it." The same person described the culture as "abhorrent" and claimed that some employees had been "touched up" or verbally abused.

Allegations of Misconduct and Favoritism

The review also heard allegations of misconduct and favoritism, with one executive saying: "The way to leave Seven with very heavy pockets is to behave appallingly." Another interviewee claimed that certain employees were "protected" because of their connections to then-chairman Kerry Stokes.

The review found that 63% of respondents did not know what Seven West Media's organisational purpose was, 59% were not clear on its future strategy, and 48% said "yes" there were psychosocial hazards in the workplace.

Ratings Obsession and Lack of Commercial Acumen

The review also criticised the company's obsession with ratings, with one staff member telling the review: "If you lose the ratings, you've got Kerry on your doorstep." The consultants noted that the influence of proprietor Kerry Stokes on Seven West Media was a significant factor in the company's culture.

Changes in Ownership and Leadership

Since the review, Seven West Media was bought by Southern Cross Media in a deal completed in January. A Southern Cross Media spokesperson said everyone in its business "should feel safe, respected and supported." The spokesperson added that the organisation has "fundamentally changed" over the past two years, with a new board, a new CEO, and a new executive team.