WASHINGTON - Will Lewis, the publisher and CEO of The Washington Post, announced his resignation just days after widespread layoffs hit the paper's newsroom and other departments. He informed staff of his decision via an internal email, which was referred to by global agencies. The management of one of America's most influential newspapers is thus facing another major change at a time when traditional media are facing deep economic and structural problems.
Lewis' decision comes at a sensitive time. The Washington Post, which has been owned by Amazon founder and billionaire Jeff Bezos since 2013, has faced declining subscribers and advertising revenue in recent years. As a result, management has in recent weeks embarked on a sweeping cost-cutting exercise that has included layoffs across the newsroom and administration. The move has sparked considerable criticism among journalists and the wider public and concerns about the future shape of the investigative and analytical journalism for which the paper has long been known.
Will Lewis was at the helm at a time when The Washington Post was struggling to adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape. He said in an internal memo, according to the agencies, that his departure is intended to allow for a smooth handover of management and stabilization of the paper in the period ahead. However, he did not specify the detailed reasons for his resignation.
Jeff D'Onofrio, the current CFO, will step into the vacant CEO and publisher position. He is seen by the newspaper's management as a key figure responsible for the company's management and financial restructuring. His appointment signals that The Washington Post's management will continue to emphasize economic stability and the search for sustainable business models at a time when print media are losing traditional sources of revenue.
The Washington Post is one of the most important American media outlets and has long influenced public debate not only in the United States but also internationally. Changes in senior leadership are therefore closely watched by both newsroom staff and media professionals. The question remains whether the new leadership can restore staff confidence while ensuring financial stability without further undermining editorial work. The departure of Will Lewis thus symbolises the broader crisis that much of the traditional media is going through today, while opening a new chapter in the history of one of the world's most influential newspapers.
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