Katharine is currently deputy editor of the Guardian and editor-in-chief of Guardian US.
Liz Forgan, chair of The Scott Trust, said: “Katharine shone through in what was a tremendously strong line up of candidates. In her 18 years at the Guardian she has done almost every editorial job in the organisation, including running Guardian US and Guardian Australia, and has shown herself to be an inspiring and courageous leader. She has embraced the huge changes in the industry with creativity and relish whilst bringing with her a deep commitment to the Guardian's traditions of plural, liberal journalism. The Scott Trust is confident that Katharine, building on the extraordinary achievements of Alan Rusbridger, is the right person to lead the Guardian and the Observer as we expand on new platforms and in new markets".
Commenting on her appointment, Katharine Viner said: “Being editor-in-chief of the Guardian and Observer is an enormous privilege and responsibility, leading a first class team of journalists revered around the world for outstanding reporting, independent thinking, incisive analysis and digital innovation. I am honoured to succeed Alan Rusbridger, whose remarkable tenure will be remembered for prize-winning journalism and pioneering advances in the Guardian’s global reach. Building on his track record, I intend to lead a media organisation that is bold, challenging, open and engaging. It will be a home for the most ambitious journalism, ideas and events, setting the agenda and reaching out to readers all around the world.”
Outgoing editor-in-chief Alan Rusbridger said: “Kath rose up through the Guardian as an inspired magazine and features editor. She took Australia by storm before heading up the Guardian’s American operation. She will bring immense experience, flair, warmth, imagination and formidable energy to her new role as editor of the Guardian.”
The appointment of the new editor-in-chief was made following a search by The Scott Trust in conjunction with an executive search firm. There were 26 applications in total.
Commenting on the appointment process, Liz Forgan said: “This has been a thorough, transparent and, for the first time, international process. We considered a very broad range of candidates across geographies, disciplines and backgrounds - including all those who took part in the editorial hustings - in our determination to leave no stone unturned in the search for the best person to lead this now global and much respected media organisation.”
