Will Lewis Resigns as CEO of The Washington Post
Will Lewis, the CEO and publisher of The Washington Post, has announced his resignation amidst increasing criticism following the paper’s recent mass layoffs. In a memo circulated to staff on Saturday, Lewis expressed that after two transformative years, it was time for him to step down. He thanked Jeff Bezos for his support during his tenure, calling him an exemplary owner.
Lewis stated, “Difficult decisions were necessary to ensure a sustainable future for the Post, allowing us to deliver quality, nonpartisan news to millions every day.”
New Leadership Amid Challenges
Effective immediately, Jeff D’Onofrio, who came on board as chief financial officer last June, has been appointed as the acting CEO and publisher. D’Onofrio emphasized the Post’s commitment to its journalistic mission, expressing pride in guiding its future and preserving its legacy.
Bezos remarked on the importance of the Post’s mission and its promising opportunities, suggesting that readers’ feedback provides a clear path for success. He expressed confidence that the leadership team, including executive editor Matt Murray and opinion editor Adam O’Neal, is ready to steer the organization into a prosperous new chapter.
The layoffs, affecting nearly a third of the workforce, triggered significant backlash, particularly after Matt Murray’s absence during the announcement of the layoffs. In defense of Lewis and Bezos, Murray highlighted their shared vision of revitalizing the Post’s economic standing and reconnecting it with readers’ lives.
Controversies Over Leadership and Layoffs
Lewis’s controversial leadership began when he candidly told his staff that readership was lagging. During a June 2024 meeting, he noted, “People aren’t reading your articles,” and stressed the need for a turnaround in the organization’s financial health.
His remarks, along with a perceived lack of presence in the newsroom, did not sit well with many staff members. The dissatisfaction grew stronger following his resignation, especially after he was seen at a pre-Super Bowl event shortly after the layoffs.
