The Tampa Bay Times has announced upcoming leadership changes within its editorial department.
Carolyn Fox, editor in chief of the Tampa Bay Times, is stepping down. Fox will become editor of Maine Trust for Local News, which includes newspapers in Portland, Maine and other parts of the state. Fox’s last day with the Times will be Sept. 20.
“I couldn’t be prouder of what she’s accomplished at The Times and am grateful for every day I had the opportunity to spend with her in our extraordinary newsroom,” said Editor in Chief Mark Katjes.
Fox’s departure has led to several senior editor changes: Michael Van Sickler becomes editor of news and engagement; Tracy Johnson becomes editor of sports, production and video; Rebecca Woollington becomes deputy editor of investigations; Claire McNeill becomes deputy editor of business; and Alison Ross becomes deputy editor of local news.
“We have a great team that Carolyn has worked so hard to prepare for this day,” Katjes said. “They are ready to lead us into the future.”
Justo “Jay” Rey is the new vice president of advertising and marketing for the Tampa Bay Times. He will continue in his role as president and publisher of Tampa Bay Newspapers for the Times Publishing Company. Morgan Peterson has been named director of philanthropy and communications for the Times Publishing Company.
“For more than 140 years, The Times has been Florida’s leading news organization,” said Conan Galaty, Times chairman and CEO. “With this leadership team, we are ready to enter a new era as we prioritize digital growth, strengthen community engagement and continue our commitment to producing quality journalism.”
Van Sickler has overseen the metro news team in the newsroom since taking on the role of deputy editor two years ago, and his deep knowledge of the region will be useful in planning future coverage.
Johnson oversees The Times’ team of sports reporters and was expanded eight months ago to include copy editors and the design team. Van Sickler and Johnson each have more than 20 years of journalism experience in The Times’ newsroom.
“Their experience will be of great use to us,” Katjes said. “They are also talented advocates for finding innovative ways to serve their audience.”
Woolington and McNeil spent several years as investigative editor and enterprise editor, respectively, where they were responsible for some of the most influential and iconic journalism The Times has produced, including, most recently, the Deadly Dose and Marked Man projects. In their new roles as deputy editors, they will continue to shape The Times’ accountability and narrative journalism.
Ross joined The Times as a reporter five years ago and most recently served as senior politics and government editor, overseeing election coverage and the Tallahassee partnership with the Miami Herald. With this move, she will add local government and culture reporting teams to her portfolio.