FT names two new associate editors, and Asia business editor

The Financial Times announced two staffers have been promoted to associate editor, and it has named an Asia business editor.

All three changes will take effect on Sept. 1.

Claer Barrett, in a new role as consumer editor, and Sarah O’Connor, employment columnist, both become associate editors. In addition to their responsibilities as editors and columnists, associate editors act as mentors to junior staff, represent the FT in external forums and advise on editorial strategy and recruitment.

Barrett, a multi-award-winning personal finance writer, broadcaster and commentator who has built a highly engaged podcast audience, will continue to write her weekly column and present a soon-to-be-launched FT podcast about how people are managing their finances in the pandemic. As with her FT ‘Business Clinic‘ videos, the emphasis will be on practical advice that cuts through the jargon of the financial world. Barrett was named Personal Finance Journalist of the Year at the 2019 Wincott Awards and her FT Money team won the top prize at the Personal Finance Awards in 2019.

O’Connor launches a new weekly opinion column on labor and the gig economy with a particular focus on the modern workplace, and will pursue long-form stories on these and other themes. O’Connor was named Financial Journalist of the Year at the 2018 Wincott Awards for her coverage of the emerging gig economy and how it makes us rethink what companies are for. She also won the highly coveted Orwell Prize in 2018 for her widely acclaimed story about the impact of globalisation on small towns.

Leo Lewis, currently Tokyo correspondent, is appointed Asia business editor to oversee and strengthen the FT’s business coverage in the Asia Pacific. Lewis will expand his corporate reporting beyond Japan, providing regional business news, analysis and a weekly column. Lewis will continue to be based in Tokyo, where he has been a prolific documenter of corporate Japan during a time of significant change and upheaval. Most recently, he was recognized by the Society of Publishers in Asia for his coverage of the downfall of Carlos Ghosn.

“The coronavirus pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for individuals and companies all over the world, ” said editor Roula Khalaf in a statement. “I am confident that Claer, Sarah and Leo, three of our most talented journalists, will help our readers navigate the complexities and uncertainties that lie ahead.”