SBS Names David Fernandez National Manager For Digital And TV Sales

SBS has appointed David Fernandez as National Manager, Digital & TV Sales, bolstering the broadcaster's commercial leadership ahead of a projected surge in digital audiences and advertising.

Following a comprehensive recruitment process, Fernandez has been chosen to lead SBS's national digital and television sales portfolio and will oversee the network's TV and BVOD sales team.

Fernandez joins from Cartology, part of the Woolworths Group, where he served as Head of Growth, leading enterprise partnerships, commercial strategy and revenue acceleration across Australia’s largest retail media platform.

Before Cartology, he held senior commercial leadership roles at Meta, overseeing major agency and retail partnerships across ANZ and driving large-scale digital transformation initiatives. He brings more than 20 years' experience across media, digital platforms, enterprise sales and commercial strategy.

Acting Director of Media Sales Lee Fifoot said Fernandez will be pivotal to SBS's growth plans. "David joins SBS at a defining commercial moment for the network, as SBS prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ — expected to be one of the biggest audience and advertising opportunities in Australian media this year," Fifoot said.

"His experience leading high-performing commercial teams and building innovative, data-led partnerships across complex media environments will be invaluable. SBS continues to strengthen its market position and unlock new growth opportunities across our media portfolio," Fifoot said.

Fernandez said he was excited to contribute to the next phase of SBS’s media sales growth. "SBS occupies a unique and increasingly valuable position in the Australian media landscape, combining audience growth, premium content, trusted news and a powerful representation of modern Australia that competitors can't match."

"With a slate that includes the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Alone Australia, SBS World News and the continued leadership of SBS On Demand — long recognised as a pioneer in BVOD — the opportunity for advertisers is incredibly compelling.

"The team has an outstanding reputation in market for creativity, partnership and integrity. I'm thrilled to be joining such an iconic brand and excited to help drive the next stage of growth for SBS Media."

His appointment coincides with a transition for outgoing National Sales Manager, Keiran Beasley, who will continue supporting the business throughout the FIFA World CupTM campaign and depart on 26 June 2026.

www.sbs.com.au