Former BBC director-general to run CNN
AUGUST 30, 2023 13.33 EUROPE/LONDON BY JULIAN CLOVER

Sir Mark Thompson has been appointed to the role of Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide. Thompson will report to David Zaslav, chief executive officer, Warner Bros. Discovery.

He replaces Chris Licht who left the network in July after a tumultuous year.

Sir Mark will lead CNN’s strategy, operations and business units, including its global portfolio of networks, channels and programming across broadcast, streaming and digital as well as CNN’s approximately 4,000 employees worldwide. He will act as editor-in-chief with responsibility for all CNN content.

“There isn’t a more experienced, respected or capable executive in the news business today than Mark, and we are thrilled to have him join our team and lead CNN Worldwide into the future,” said David Zaslav, chief executive officer, Warner Bros. Discovery. “Mark is a true innovator who has transformed for the digital age two of the world’s most respected news organizations. His strategic vision, track record in transformational leadership and sheer passion for news make him a formidable force for CNN and journalism at this pivotal time.”

“I couldn’t be more excited about the chance to join CNN after years of watching it and competing against it with a mixture of admiration and envy,” said Thompson. “The world needs accurate trustworthy news now more than ever and we’ve never had more ways of meeting that need at home and abroad. Where others see disruption, I see opportunity. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and get down to work with my new colleagues to build a successful future for CNN.”

Sir Mark was director-general of the BBC from 2004-2012 where he was responsible for overseeing the development of the BBC iPlayer and expanded web and smart phone services. After leaving the BBC he became As president and CEO of The New York Times until his departure in 2020.

He’ll take up the post in October.