REA Group CEO Owen Wilson to retire

SYDNEY: REA Group Ltd (ASX:REA) announced Thursday that Chief Executive Officer Owen Wilson will step down from his role in the second half of 2025 after a decade with the company, including six years as CEO.

The company’s board praised Wilson for his transformative leadership and strong financial performance during his tenure.

The board has initiated a comprehensive search for Wilson’s successor, considering both internal and external candidates. Wilson will remain with REA Group to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

“It has been a privilege to lead REA Group for the past six years, and I am proud of all our team has accomplished,” Wilson said in a statement. “The business is in excellent shape, as evidenced by the results we have announced today. We have an exciting strategy and a talented, committed team to deliver it.”

REA Group Chairman Hamish McLennan expressed his gratitude for Wilson’s contributions. “Owen’s stellar leadership has left the company exceptionally well-positioned. REA is one of the best home-grown technology companies and has flourished into a global leader,” McLennan said. “Our board and staff sincerely thank Owen for building an incredible organization under his outstanding leadership.”

Robert Thomson, CEO of News Corp, also lauded Wilson’s tenure. “Owen has shown extraordinary leadership in building a global success story at REA, which has become the gold standard for digital platforms,” Thomson said. “His positive influence will resonate for many years to come.”

Wilson’s departure marks the end of an era for REA Group, but the company looks ahead with optimism as it embarks on the search for a new CEO to continue its growth trajectory.