Sasha Mackie’s Insights on the Launch of HBO Max: The Highs and Lows

Sasha Mackie had quite the ride as Warner Bros. Discovery’s senior director of marketing, streaming, studios, and networks during the Australian launch of HBO Max. Winning the Women In Media Award for Marketing, Mackie reflected on the launch as a truly successful moment that reshaped her career path. She credits the amazing team she worked with for making it all possible.

Mackie’s expertise in the media industry was instrumental in steering HBO Max to become Australia’s fastest-growing streaming service. Surpassing expectations from the get-go, the launch exceeded targets by over 350 percent. Collaborating with EssenceMediaCom and Special Group, Mackie had the unique opportunity to introduce a new brand to the country, a rare feat for marketers.

Despite the highs of the successful launch, Mackie humorously admitted that the lowest point was having to rebrand just six weeks after the initial launch. Drawing on her extensive experience at News Australia, Foxtel, Seven, and Network 10, Mackie’s impact extended beyond just the HBO Max launch.

In her role as chair of Women of Warner Bros. Discovery, Mackie supports over 300 female staff across Australia and New Zealand. This platform enables female colleagues to connect, collaborate, and uplift each other during critical business moments. Mackie emphasized the importance of more women having a seat at the table and highlighted the necessity of equal pay for all.

The industry can only benefit from champions like Sasha Mackie, leading the way and advocating for gender equality in the workplace. Her journey with HBO Max is just the beginning of her impactful contributions to the media landscape.