Mark Thompson to takeover as CEO and Chairman of CNN

Veteran media executive Mark Thompson will beCNN's new CEO and chairman, starting October 9.

"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," CNN quoted David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, as saying on Thompson's appointment.

Mark Thompson's appointment as CEO of CNN comes at a critical juncture for the network, which is grappling with a series of formidable hurdles.

Thompson, a seasoned media executive renowned for his role in reviving The New York Times during a tumultuous period, now holds the key to how these issues will shape CNN's future.

The TV network faces multiple significant challenges, including the shifting landscape of traditional linear television, the primary source of its revenue. Thompson's track record of transforming The New York Times into a digital powerhouse positions him as a valuable asset in guiding CNN's future in this evolving media landscape.

Thompson also faces the formidable task of leading a global news organisation with4,000 employees, which has weathered a series of major challenges over the past 20 months, including layoffs.

CNN's multi-front challenges

Of utmost significance is the existential threat to CNN's revenue model posed by the rapid decline of traditional linear television, traditionally its main source of income.

CNN has been facing a challenging political landscape. The re-emergence of former President Donald Trump, who previously targeted the news network during his first term, means that newsrooms will continue to grapple with a deluge of misinformation and smear campaigns from Trump and his supporters.

Furthermore, the CNN+ streaming service was abruptly discontinued, and high-profile anchors Chris Cuomo and Don Lemon were terminated. The introduction of significant programming changes, including the relaunch of the network's flagship morning show and prime-time lineup,dampened the morale of the rank and file.

Licht's unpopular leadership and CNN's ratings

Adding to the organisational turbulence, Zucker's successor, Chris Licht, remained unpopular during his brief tenure as CEO.

Licht's management decisions, including programming changes, resulted in declining ratings during his relatively short time in charge. Notably, MSNBC began to outperform CNN in key ratings categories, including the coveted 25-54 demographic, during his leadership.

Furthermore, Licht's departure in June followed a scathing feature in The Atlantic magazine that exposed various statements he made, including criticism of the network's coverage prior to his tenure, ultimately leading to his removal.

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