Photo: Patrick McMullan
A Wall Street Journal staffer just forwarded us managing editor Marcus Brauchli’s letter to the office, after reports emerged last night that he was resigning. Most notable are the sections where he talks about his devotion to the paper (he’s been with Dow Jones since 1984) and explains, “but now that the ownership transition has taken place, I have come to believe the new owners should have a managing editor of their choosing.” Though he is quick to assure the staff that “the new management scrupulously has avoided imposing any political or business viewpoints on our coverage,” that doesn’t much sound like Murdoch and company are being hands-off. Will there be an uproar in the newsroom? We’ll keep you posted.
To the Staff:
A year ago, I was appointed managing editor, and we set off together on a great journey. We faced uncertainty about our ownership, inclement conditions in our industry and consensus that change was necessary. And so we chose a path of transformation.
We rethought the central tenets of our approach, with the aim of making a great news organization even better.
During this time of transition, we have not strayed from our mission, producing engaging journalism that illuminates and informs our world.
Our reporters, whether in Lhasa or Los Angeles, Washington or Wall Street, are courageous, resourceful and infinitely talented. Our editing, graphics and production staff, too, are brilliant, creative and deeply dedicated.
I am proud to have been part of this exceptionally talented team.
But now that the ownership transition has taken place, I have come to believe the new owners should have a managing editor of their choosing.
So, today, I am resigning.
I revere this institution and respect all of my colleagues, both old and new. When News Corp bought Dow Jones, together we crafted an editorial agreement designed to protect our independence. The agreement was designed to block commercial or political interference in our journalism and to ensure we adhered to our code of conduct.
Since the acquisition last December, the new management scrupulously has avoided imposing any political or business viewpoints on our coverage and rigorously has enforced the code of conduct. I am confident that our journalistic integrity remains intact and that News Corp. is committed to a Journal that is vibrant, vital and preeminent in American journalism.
Turns out Romenesko also has the memo.
Earlier: ’Journal’ Managing Editor Out, Rupert In?
