Mark Whitaker Named Managing Editor, CNN Worldwide

CNN has named Mark Whitaker to a newly created position, executive vice president and managing editor of CNN Worldwide. Whitaker will report directly to CNN Worldwide president Jim Walton. “Our aim is to position a strong managing editor, working closely with the head of each CNN network and website, to generate reporting and analysis that consistently stands out, sparks conversation and captures the true meaning and relevance of the events in the news,” said Walton. “Mark is a distinguished journalist and news executive who is experienced in leading large enterprises, and I am pleased that he will help direct our long-term editorial approach and strategy.”

Whitaker succeeded the late Tim Russert as senior vice president and Washington bureau chief for NBC News in 2008. Before that, he was vice president and editor-in-chief of new ventures in the digital division of The Washington Post Company, and he served for several years as the editor of Newsweek. “CNN plays an invaluable role in television and digital journalism as a source of non-partisan reporting and analysis, global perspective and groundbreaking documentaries,” said Whitaker. “I am excited to be joining Jim and his team in advancing that proud legacy.”

In his new role, CNN says Whitaker will lead editorial coverage across CNN’s multiple platforms and “influence the overall approach, tone and direction of CNN’s reporting.” Whitaker starts Feb. 14 and will be based in New York.

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