Meet Mark Thompson: CNN's New CEO and Chairman Leading a Transformation in News
Leadership Changes
August 31, 2023
In a major shakeup in the news industry, CNN Worldwide has announced the appointment of Mark Thompson as its Chairman and CEO. The appointment, set to take effect on October 9, marks a significant step forward for CNN as it gears up for a new era under Thompson's leadership.
Mark Thompson, a stalwart in the news business, will assume the role of CEO, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of innovation. In his new capacity, Thompson will not only lead CNN's overall strategy but also oversee its operations and various business units. This includes CNN's global network, channels, and programming spanning broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms. With a finger on the pulse of the industry, Thompson will also serve as the editor-in-chief, holding the reins of all CNN content.
David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, expressed his excitement about Thompson's appointment, emphasizing his unparalleled experience and expertise in the news domain. Zaslav lauded Thompson's transformative leadership style that has previously revitalized some of the world's most respected news organizations for the digital age. This endorsement speaks volumes about the confidence the industry has in Thompson's ability to drive CNN forward during this crucial juncture in journalism.
Thompson himself shared his enthusiasm about joining CNN after years of admiring the network from a competitive standpoint. He highlighted the increasing need for accurate and trustworthy news in today's world and emphasized his eagerness to leverage the multitude of platforms available to meet this demand. Thompson's perspective on turning disruption into opportunity showcases his forward-looking approach to leading CNN into a successful future.
With over 40 years of experience in the news industry, Mark Thompson brings a wealth of achievements to his new role. As the former president and CEO of The New York Times from 2012 to 2020, Thompson played a pivotal role in transforming the newspaper's digital landscape. He led the expansion of digital subscriptions and revenues while spearheading innovative ventures such as podcasts (The Daily) and lifestyle content (NYT Cooking, NYT Games, Wirecutter). His earlier role as the director-general of the BBC from 2004 to 2012 showcased his prowess in overseeing vast media landscapes, including TV, radio, and digital assets, all while shepherding significant developments like the BBC iPlayer.
Recognizing his exceptional contributions to the media realm, Mark Thompson was knighted in the King's Birthday Honours of June 2023. This accolade further solidifies his position as a distinguished leader in the field.
As Thompson steps into his role as CEO, CNN's interim leadership team, consisting of Amy Entelis, David Leavy, Virginia Moseley, and Eric Sherling, will continue in their respective functional roles. This ensures a seamless transition of operations and maintains stability within the organization.
CNN Worldwide stands as a preeminent force in cable news, commanding a significant presence both on television and online. With its reach extending across more than 200 countries and territories through CNN International, and boasting the #1 online news destination through CNN Digital, the network is set to flourish under Thompson's guidance.
The appointment of Mark Thompson as CEO and Chairman is poised to steer CNN Worldwide into an exciting future, characterized by innovation, credibility, and a commitment to delivering quality news to audiences around the world.
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