View all newsletters
Sign up for our free email newsletters

Fighting for quality news media in the digital age.

Exit for Independent deputy ed Birrell

By Dominic Ponsford

Independent deputy editor Ian Birrell is leaving the paper after nearly 12 years on the title.

He leaves on a high, after being shortlisted for a British Press Award this month, as the paper appears poised to be bought by Russian billionaire Alexander Lebedev.

Simon Kelner, Independent managing director and editor-in-chief, said: “Ian has been a highly effective deputy editor and has made an enormous contribution to the Independent’s success over the years. His energy, vision and acumen have been felt across the paper, and he has always been a supportive colleague to me in often challenging times. We are extremely sorry to see him go, but wish him the very best in the future.”

The Independent quotes Birrell saying: “I have hugely enjoyed working with some of the most talented journalists in Britain, but now feel the time is right for a change. It has been hard work, but usually great fun and never less than exciting. It has been a privilege to have played a central role for more than a decade and I wish the titles and all the staff every success for the future.”

Content from our partners
Free journalism awards for journalists under 30: Deadline today
MHP Group's 30 To Watch awards for young journalists open for entries
How PA Media is helping newspapers make the digital transition

Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog

Select and enter your email address Weekly insight into the big strategic issues affecting the future of the news industry. Essential reading for media leaders every Thursday. Your morning brew of news about the world of news from Press Gazette and elsewhere in the media. Sent at around 10am UK time. Our weekly does of strategic insight about the future of news media aimed at US readers. A fortnightly update from the front-line of news and advertising. Aimed at marketers and those involved in the advertising industry.
  • Business owner/co-owner
  • CEO
  • COO
  • CFO
  • CTO
  • Chairperson
  • Non-Exec Director
  • Other C-Suite
  • Managing Director
  • President/Partner
  • Senior Executive/SVP or Corporate VP or equivalent
  • Director or equivalent
  • Group or Senior Manager
  • Head of Department/Function
  • Manager
  • Non-manager
  • Retired
  • Other
Visit our privacy Policy for more information about our services, how Progressive Media Investments may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications.
Thank you

Thanks for subscribing.

Websites in our network