CNN Worldwide announced Friday that it has hired NBC News Washington Bureau Chief Mark Whitaker in the new role of Managing Editor.
Whitaker, who joined NBC News in 2007 and became Washington Bureau Chief after Tim Russert's sudden death in 2008, was the editor of Newsweek from 1998 through 2006.
The role was created after the departure of CNN/US President Jon Klein in September. At the time, in addition to naming Executive Vice Presidents overseeing CNN/US and sister network HLN, CNN Worldwide President Jim Walton said he would be "naming an executive vice president and managing editor of CNN Worldwide to lead collaboration across all platforms and elevate CNN's unique journalism and analysis."
"Our aim is to position a strong managing editor, working closely with the head of each CNN network and Web site, to generate reporting and analysis that consistently stands out, sparks conversation and captures the true meaning and relevance of the events in the news," Walton said in an announcement. "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."
"CNN plays an invaluable role in television and digital journalism as a source of non-partisan reporting and analysis, global perspective and groundbreaking documentaries," Whitaker added. "I am excited to be joining Jim and his team in advancing that proud legacy."
Whitaker will be based in New York.
NBC News also announced Friday that Whitaker would be succeeded by Antoine Sanfuentes, previously Deputy Washington Bureau Chief for NBC News and NBC News Vice President.
"Antoine's inclusive management style combined with his expert knowledge and experience make him the ideal leader to guide the Washington Bureau into the next phase," NBC News President Steve Capus said in announcing his new hire. "He is a true news producer through and through, with an outstanding dedication to integrity and professionalism in the field. He started his career in our DC newsroom and knows both the team and the political beat better than anyone."