3MBS Melbourne 103.5FM is pleased to announce Emily Rayner’s appointment as its new Chief Executive Officer. Emily will step into the role in February 2027 following Gail Southwell’s departure after nine years leading the station.
Emily brings more than 20 years of experience across the Australian and international broadcasting industries, with a career spanning content strategy, audience engagement, journalism and digital transformation. Her roles have included producing and presenting national news segments for 7NEWS and the ABC, and working across major broadcasters and media organisations including Nova, Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), the BBC and ITV.
Currently Chief of Staff at ABC Melbourne, Emily combines extensive broadcasting experience with a strong understanding of corporate governance, compliance and the changing media landscape.
Emily joins 3MBS at an exciting time, following the station's 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025. As Melbourne's only community radio station dedicated to classical music and jazz, 3MBS occupies a distinctive place in the city's cultural landscape, bringing together a dedicated community of volunteers, musicians and listeners.
"Authenticity and genuine craft have never been more valuable," Emily said. "As AI and machine-made music become increasingly prevalent across streaming platforms and broadcasting, there is a growing value in the insight, knowledge and passion that people bring to the art form.
"Put simply, it's people, not algorithms, who will power and guide the discovery of classical music and jazz for a new generation of music lovers. Our brilliant volunteers are perfectly placed to do exactly that. I look forward to exploring how our unique combination of history, knowledge and passion can continue to engage our loyal listeners while attracting new audiences.”
3MBS Chair Opal Ackland said the Board was delighted to welcome Emily to the station.
“Emily is passionate about both music and radio, and brings a valuable combination of experience across broadcasting, music journalism, marketing and digital transformation. She brings the energy, skills and strategic insight needed to help the station embrace new opportunities and support its continued growth and success.
“The Board is confident that Emily will lead with empathy, authenticity and respect for the station's rich history, building on the foundations established under Gail Southwell. Gail has led 3MBS with vision, integrity and genuine passion over the past nine years. Her leadership has helped safeguard the station’s future and nurtured the community at its heart. We are deeply grateful for her contribution.
“We look forward to working with Emily and the entire 3MBS community as the station continues to flourish as a distinctive and valued part of Melbourne's cultural life.”