Former BBC chief Mark Thompson named as CEO of CNN Worldwide

Former BBC director general Mark Thompson has been named chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide. He will report to David Zaslav, chief executive officer, Warner Bros. Discovery, and the appointment will be effective on October 9.

In his new role, Thompson 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, ultimately responsible for all CNN content.

Commenting on the appointment, Zaslav said: “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. 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.”

Thompson, who also was also president and CEO of The New York Times from 2012-2020, said: “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. 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.”

During his time at NYT, Thompson led the creation of the world’s largest and most successful digital business to date, increasing paid digital subscriptions to the Times tenfold and more than doubling the company’s total digital revenues. Previously, as director-general (CEO and editor-in-chief) of the BBC from 2004-2012, Thompson presided over one of the world’s biggest newsrooms as well as scores of national and international TV and radio services and extensive global digital news assets.

CNN’s interim leadership team of Amy Entelis, EVP, talent and content development, David Leavy, COO, Virginia Moseley, EVP of editorial, CNN US, and Eric Sherling, EVP of US programming will continue in their roles, reporting to Thompson.