Alex MacCallum Elevated to CNN’s Chief Operating Officer

Alex MacCallum has rejoined CNN with the aim of enhancing the network’s digital presence. Her role may soon expand significantly.

MacCallum, a seasoned media professional with experience at The Washington Post and The New York Times, has been appointed as the chief operating officer of Warner Bros. Discovery’s CNN. This announcement came via a memo from Mark Thompson, CEO of CNN’s news division, on Thursday.

“Alex MacCallum is already playing a crucial role in turning our vision of the future CNN into a reality,” Thompson stated in a message to employees. He continued: “In a remarkable two-year stint back at CNN, Alex has accomplished an impressive array of key achievements in record time. She has built a top-tier digital operation, revamped our core products, spearheaded a direct-to-consumer business, and gathered a team of exceptional leaders in areas like audience, data, product and tech, engagement, and monetization. She has also developed strong collaborative relationships with all of CNN’s senior leadership.”

MacCallum’s new position was previously reported by the media-industry newsletter Status.

This promotion seems to place MacCallum above many colleagues focused on CNN’s traditional journalism, which populates its cable networks that still drive most of its revenue and profits. However, these revenue streams are under threat. Kagan, a market-research firm under S&P Global Intelligence, projects CNN will have 62 million cable subscribers by 2026, down from 67.1 million in 2024. Nevertheless, advertising and distribution fees are expected to increase this year, potentially due to the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, which often attract more viewers to the network.

MacCallum will not oversee CNN’s news operations. Senior news executives such as Amy Entelis, Virginia Moseley, and Eric Sherling will continue to report to Thompson. This team has kept CNN steady despite recent management changes. MacCallum’s responsibilities will include consumer strategy, business operations, strategic partnerships, business development, and special “mission-driven” projects.

CNN has had a chief operating officer before. In 2023, David Leavy, a long-time associate of Warner CEO David Zaslav, took on the role, focusing on CNN’s business operations. His appointment came during a challenging period for Chris Licht, CNN’s former chief, who faced public and staff issues. Leavy left CNN two years later, followed by his departure from Warner Bros. Discovery.

This is MacCallum’s second tenure at CNN. In her first, she was instrumental in launching CNN+, a subscription streaming service that was quickly shut down after CNN’s parent company WarnerMedia merged with Discovery Communications. Some believe discontinuing the service was a significant mistake, as it hindered CNN’s ability to engage broadband audiences, while competitors like NBC News and Fox News advanced. MacCallum now has the opportunity to sustain vital initiatives.