Julian Clarke appointed as News Corp Australia CEO

News Corp, one of the world's largest media and information services businesses, announced on Friday that Julian Clarke had been appointed as chief executive of News Corp Australia, replacing Kim Williams.

The company said Williams had resigned his post after taking the helm at News Corp Australia in December 2011.

In a statement released on Friday, News Corp executive chairman Rupert Murdoch thanked Williams for his contribution to the company.

"I want to sincerely thank Kim, first for his nearly two decades of service to News Corp; but more importantly, for his loyalty and friendship to me and my family all of these years," Murdoch said.

News Corp said in a separate statement that Clarke has been associated with News Corp Australia or its associated companies for 30 years, most recently as chairman of the Herald and Weekly Times.

"He is an experienced executive with a unique understanding of our company's culture, and the immense energy and clarity of vision necessary to drive our properties forward at this challenging time for all media in all countries," Murdoch said in the statement.

"He will certainly bring out the very best in the talented teams in our Australian broadcasting, digital and publishing properties, and have the full support of our dynamic global network."