WSJ. names new editor, who will also oversee new WSJ lifestyle section

Wall Street Journal managing editor Robert Thomson sent out the following announcement on Tuesday:

“I am delighted to announce the appointment of Deborah Needleman to a newly created role in which she will serve as editor-in-chief of WSJ. magazine and editor of a new weekly Saturday lifestyle section, about which we must necessarily be somewhat discreet, for now.

“Deborah — who was founding editor of domino magazine — will succeed Tina Gaudoin at WSJ., which has thrived as other magazines have struggled during the downturn. The content of the new Saturday section will complement that of the magazine, so Deborah will be able to exercise her knowing eye and refined taste in overseeing and developing both publications.

“There have been sightings of Deborah on the fourth floor in New York, as she has been consulting on the soon-to-be-launched section. She has shown in her past work that glossies need not be panglossian, and the new section will have a sensibility that separates it qualitatively from the competition.

“As we welcome Deborah, we should also recognize Tina’s significant achievements. To sculpt a successful magazine in such harsh economic conditions is remarkable. Tina will begin her new role as contributing editor for style and fashion for The Wall Street Journal Europe in London after polishing the September and October issues. Upon assuming her new role on September 1, Deborah, who will report to Mike Miller, will begin fashioning the December issue.

“Please join me in welcoming Deborah and lauding Tina.”