The Athletic appoints its first executive editor

The Athletic has appointed its first executive editor, with Steven Ginsberg joining the sports website from The Washington Post, where he worked as managing editor.

“We conducted an intensive search and interview process during which it became clear that Steven is the right leader for The Athletic’s newsroom,” said The Athletic’s publisher David Perpich announcing the latest addition to their team.

“He is a champion of ambitious and creative journalism who has a love for breaking news, beat reporting, analysis, and investigative scoops. He knows how to connect great journalism with digital audiences. He has an eye for great journalistic talent and an ability to inspire colleagues to excel in their roles. He approaches leadership through the lens of inclusion and equity. And he’s done it all while leading large teams.

“Steven is a giant sports fan (not to mention a Giants sports fan) who shares our vision for The Athletic to be the best destination for sports journalism in the world. Under his leadership, our newsroom will continue to be a magnet for extremely talented sports journalists to do their best work.”

The newly created executive editor role mirrors that of The New York Times, which bought up The Athletic in January. Ginsberg, who officially starts on 3 January 2023, said he was “thrilled” to be joining the sports website.

“I can’t imagine a more appealing role — I’m an obsessive sports fan and deeply committed to pursuing ambitious, innovative journalism. Nothing is more exciting than breaking the big story or landing an impactful investigation. Nothing beats having the news everyone is talking about.

“My goal as executive editor is to build on what you have created, to continue bringing together the world’s best journalists to create the world’s best sports journalism site. I can’t wait to meet everyone and am beyond excited to get started.”

Steven Ginsberg image credit: Bill O’Leary/The Washington Post