The Australian reported that Free TV Australia announced the appointment of the media veteran, ending a four-month search for a new chairman. The founder of Mitchell & Partners takes on the role after retiring as executive chairman of Aegis Media Asia Pacific, added the report.

The FTA television industry body had shortlisted a number of former politicians including former Prime Minister John Howard, but rows between members put candidates off the job, according to The Australian. 

According to the report, Seven West Media chairman Kerry Stokes said: “Harold is an icon and has been a long and passionate supporter of our industry. He will be terrific in his new role as chairman of Free TV Australia.”

In a statement, Seven West Media chief executive Tim Worner also greeted the move with enthusiasm, added the report. In addition, it reported that the CEOs of Ten Network and Nine Entertainment endorsed the appointment, in a sign that Free TV was moving beyond its recent troubled past.

The report claims that Former Nine Network managing director Browne resigned after The Australian revealed members were planning to oust him over a heated disagreement about the contentious 75 percent population reach rule.