Dow Jones makes changes to WSJ Europe operations

Dow Jones & Co. anmnounced Tuesday some a organizational change in an attempt to accelerate the continuing growth of The Wall Street Journal franchise overseas.

The company named Andrew Langhoff as publisher of The Wall Street Journal Europe and managing director of Dow Jones Consumer Media Group in Europe, Middle East and Africa. Langhoff’s appointment is effective Jan. 5, 2009.

Patrick J. Purcell will replace Langhoff at Ottaway Newspapers Inc. and take on the role of executive chairman, also beginning Jan. 5, 2009.

Langhoff’s priorities will include developing local sections on WSJ.com to create a more regionally relevant experience for readers.

“Andrew and Pat are veteran executives with proven track records at growing print and digital publications,” said Les Hinton, Dow Jones CEO, in a statement. “These appointments signal our continued desire to invest in all of our brands around the globe.”

Langhoff, previously the chief executive officer of Ottaway, the local media group of Dow Jones, will be responsible for all aspects of Dow Jones’ consumer business in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, including The Wall Street Journal’s print and online operations. Additionally, he will take on responsibility for the consumer business in South America, including The Wall Street Journal Americas.

Langhoff will be based in the company’s London offices and he will report to Todd Larsen, chief operating officer for Dow Jones Consumer Media Group.

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