The Nine Network has confirmed Adrian Swift will return to the network in February as Head of Content Production and Development.

The move comes just 16 months after Swift defected from Nine, for a role at the ABC as Head of Content and Creative Development, at the time ABC TV Director Richard Finlayson described Swift as “one of the most highly regarded production executives in the country,” but the move quickly soured with sources indicating many within the ABC found Swifts’ confronting work style challenging.

Announcing the move today, Michael Healy Nine’s Director of Television said.

 “I’m really pleased to say Adrian is returning to Nine in a role which will incorporate production and development of our local content, across all the platforms in our evolving business. Adrian has a great knowledge of Nine, he will be a welcomed member of our team.”

In this role, Adrian will be responsible for non-scripted production across Nine broadcast and digital platforms including external commissions and the internal production unit as well as program development and format acquisitions.

During his previous period at Nine, Swift was responsible for shows including Big Brother and Australia's Got Talent as well as executive producing major shows including The Voice and the docu-drama series Embassy. He was also integral to the development of strategy for the network’s apps, social media, web sites and catch up, including serving as an advisor during the creation of Nine’s SVOD service STAN.

“Nine is my spiritual home and I’m very excited to be returning.” Adrian Swift said, ”With so many great shows commissioned for 2016, it’s a huge job and I’m looking forward to working alongside Hugh Marks, Michael Healy and Andrew Backwell. I have loved my time at The ABC and salute the brilliant team with whom it’s been a privilege to work”

Richard Finlayson, Director of ABC Television, said,

“We will be sad to see Adrian go. He’s made a significant impact in his relatively short time at ABC TV, with results that will be seen throughout our strong 2016 slate. We wish Adrian all the best for his future.”