Jonathan Munro will take up the post of BBC News Global Director from September. In this new role, spanning international services, he will be Director of the BBC World Service, oversee BBC Monitoring and remain Deputy CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs.
Jonathan referred to the new challenge: “I am thrilled and daunted in equal measure to be taking on the enormous responsibilities of leading the BBC World Service, along with other international activities for our global audiences. As I’ve travelled around the world with the BBC over the last decade or so, everywhere I have been I’ve been told of the enduring value of impartial news, in English and our more than 40 other languages. The need for independent news is growing, not shrinking, and the BBC’s role in pursuing truth and enriching knowledge has never been more important," stated.
For her part, Deborah Turness, the executive director of BBC News, expressed enthusiasm for the new stage: “I know at first hand the qualities Jonathan will bring to this vital role – his leadership, his expertise, and above all, his journalistic integrity. The BBC is a truly global broadcaster and the World Service is a priceless asset – the world’s most trusted international news provider. In a world of disinformation and diminishing freedom of speech, it is more needed than ever, and I’m delighted Jonathan will be taking its helm, and that of all BBC News’ international services," noted.