Jeffrey Browne is stepping down as Managing Director of the Nine Network on August 1, 2013, announced Nine Entertainment Co. CEO David Gyngell.

“Jeff’s made the call after seven terrific years at the top of the Network – the time is right for him and he departs the role with Nine in fantastic shape,” Gyngell said.

“I’ll miss him not only as a robust and talented Managing Director, but the best deal closer in the business, a friend and simply a terrific bloke. He leaves us in a much stronger position than when he came on board, which is a fitting tribute.”

Gyngell said Browne had played a major role in securing the recent new agreements for Nine on the National Rugby League, Cricket and WIN – including the purchase of NWS Adelaide. He added that Browne has agreed to take up a new part-time role as Executive Director – Commercial, of Nine Entertainment Co.

Browne said he’d given his future a great deal of thought in recent months, and believed the time was right to move on and take up some different business challenges.

“I am gratified I’ve made this decision when Nine is in such a strong position – not only through the re-signing of the crucial sporting rights and related deals, but when our programming is performing better than at any other time since I began here” he said.

“I am also exceptionally proud of the winning culture we have built together and I am confident there are great things ahead for the Network. So it’s terrific that I am able to stay in contact with the outstanding team at Nine through this new role which allows me to keep a foot inside the tent.

“I have many people to thank for their great support, professionalism and friendship but first amongst equals is David Gyngell, who deserves my special thanks. He is and has always been a motivating spirit, a true friend and a person for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration. Nine could not be in better hands. ”

The Australian reported that Browne’s departure follows a back-down in April that saw him resign from the chairmanship of Free TV Australia, amid accusations he was putting Nine’s interests ahead of those of the other networks. The report added that he resigned from the organisation before he could be ousted and that he had described the episode as “very damaging for us as an industry” in a leaked email.