The News of the World‘s long-serving managing editor, Stuart Kuttner, is stepping down after 22 years in the job.
Kuttner joined the paper in 1980 from the London Evening Standard and has been credited with being the driving force behind the Sunday tabloid’s campaigning work.
News International said today that Kuttner would continue to work for the paper on special projects, such as its ongoing to work to introduce a “Sarah’s Law” giving parents the right to know the identify of sex offenders living near them.
News of the World editor Colin Myler said: “Stuart has been an outstanding managing editor. His knowledge, experience and attention to detail is beyond compare in the industry.
“I am delighted he has agreed to continue working with us. He has been a major driving force behind the success of Sarah’s Law, indeed his powerful negotiating skills has been a significant factor in the government introducing 14 new pieces of legislation in the past nine years.
“That is a huge compliment to him. His DNA is absolutely integrated into the newspaper which he has represented across the media with vigour. I will continue to value his wise counsel.”
Kuttner’s successor is News International editorial development director Bill Akass. His career has included time as a staff reporter at the Daily Mirror, night news editor at The Sun and editorial director of NI’s digital division, where he launched Sun Online.
Myler added: “Bill has a breadth of experience that is very impressive. He is stepping into huge shoes, but I am sure he will be an outstanding executive and a visionary leader of our executive team.”
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