CEO Mark Thompson taps heir apparent in shakeup

5 1 minute read

CNN executive Alex MacCallum has been named as the likely successor to CEO Mark Thompson, positioning her as the new chief operating officer of the left-leaning cable network. The announcement was made in a memo circulated to CNN staffers earlier this week, as reported by the Status newsletter.

CNN digital chief Alex MacCallum (seen far right alongside Maya Voelk, center, and Omar Jimenez) has been tapped as chief operating officer, positioning her as a likely successor to CEO Mark Thompson. Getty Images for CNN

The move to appoint MacCallum has reportedly caused disappointment among other top executives, with executive editor Virginia Moseley, who was seen as a leading contender for the top job, now facing a different trajectory within the organization.

In recent months, CNN has been undergoing significant changes as it transitions to a more digital-focused operation, aiming to increase digital subscriptions and streaming services. This strategic shift has led to restructuring, layoffs, and a renewed focus on direct-to-consumer offerings.

CNN chief Mark Thompson is reshaping the network’s leadership as he pushes a digital overhaul. Getty Images for Semafor

The appointment of MacCallum as COO is seen as a key step in this digital transformation, with Thompson praising her accomplishments in building a strong digital operation and launching direct-to-consumer services. Despite uncertainties surrounding CNN’s future ownership following the Paramount Skydance acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, Thompson has expressed his commitment to the network and his intention to stay on during the transition.