Jane Palfreyman

Jane Palfreyman was appointed Managing Director of SBS in May 2026. She is a senior executive with more than 25 years' experience leading media organisations through growth and transformation in Australia and overseas, with a strong focus on delivering public value. 

In her present role, Jane is responsible for ensuring SBS delivers on its Charter to inform, educate and entertain all Australians, while reflecting and celebrating the nation’s rich cultural and linguistic diversity. She leads SBS’s strategic direction, organisational performance and culture, as well as oversees its trusted journalism, distinctive storytelling and multilingual services that connect audiences across Australia.  

Jane is the first female Managing Director in SBS’s 50-year history, previously serving as Acting Managing Director from August 2025 to April 2026. Before that, she was SBS’s Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, leading the transformation of the organisation's commercial strategy, driving revenue diversification, strengthening the SBS brand and aligning commercial sustainability with public value. 

Prior to joining SBS, Jane held senior leadership roles with Nova Entertainment, Global Radio in London and Southern Cross Austereo. 

She is a Non-Executive Director of NSW Rugby Union, supporting the growth of rugby in New South Wales and the advancement of women's sport. She is also a member of Chief Executive Women.