Manager in clash with TVNZ

TVNZ's head of programming Jane Wilson. Photo / Herald on Sunday.

One of Television NZ's top managers is embroiled in an employment dispute with the state broadcaster.

Head of programming Jane Wilson is seeking a payout for how she has been treated, sources say.

She and senior management held talks at TVNZ's central Auckland headquarters on Friday.

Wilson told the Herald on Sunday she had sought legal advice but refused to elaborate. She'd had rows with top executives in recent months, a source said. Wilson is known to have clashed with the head of TV1 and TV2, Jeff Latch.

She was employed in 2004 as a senior programme scheduler. She was promoted to head of programming - effectively controlling what gets on screen - and was credited with turning around plummeting ratings for both channels by making or buying more populist shows.

Speculation has been rife about clashes inside TVNZ for months.

Touchstone Pictures head Julie Christie said she was unaware of the fallout, but added: "I have a great deal of respect for Jane as I do for TVNZ. I always have had a great working relationship with her."

TVNZ spokeswoman Megan Richards said on Friday night that Wilson was still employed there.

"Employment issues for any member of staff are never discussed except between the parties concerned," Richards said. "TVNZ will never comment on any issue, involving any member of staff, that may fall into the realm of an employment matter."