Reuters makes management changes

Reuters named Thursday two of its long-time journalists to the posts of managing editor, multimedia, and managing editor, Asia, in a major shift in editorial operations leadership for the world’s largest international news organization.

Mark Thompson, currently managing editor, Europe, Middle East and Africa, was appointed to the new post of managing editor, multimedia, effective end of June. Thompson will remain based in London and will report to Chris Cramer, global editor, multimedia.

In his new role, Thompson will provide leadership and managerial oversight of Reuters TV and pictures and their associated units such as graphics. Working closely with these editors and with the global editors for agency and online, Thompson will provide the strategic editorial direction for these key Media Division properties, ensuring that the best and most efficient working systems are put in place to satisfy customer demands and company strategies for growth.

“I am thrilled to ask Mark to partner with me to drive the next phase of our multimedia strategy,” said Cramer. “His management experience and journalistic integrity are coupled with a keen appreciation of our client and customer needs.”

Brian Rhoads, currently managing editor, The Americas, will fill the vacancy for Asia managing editor, effective mid-July. Rhoads will move to Hong Kong from New York and will continue to report to Betty Wong, global managing editor.

“Brian will take his experience and talent running a complex editorial operation back to his old stomping grounds. News from the established and emerging markets in Asia is of keen interest to our readers and customers and Brian will help keep Reuters competitive edge there,” Wong said in a statement. Rhoads will oversee editorial operations for the more than 500 Reuters journalists across Asia.