Washington Post Alumni Urge Bezos to Replace Embattled CEO

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In February, morale at The Washington Post plummeted, prompting intervention from two of its most esteemed former leaders. Leonard Downie, who served as the newspaper’s top editor for 17 years, and Bob Kaiser, a veteran journalist with over 50 years at the organization, reached out to the paper’s owner, Jeff Bezos, advocating for significant change in leadership.

Their message was clear: Will Lewis, the current chief executive, must be replaced for the publication to recover and thrive. “Replacing him is a crucial first step in saving The Washington Post,” the email stated, according to a source familiar with the correspondence.

Downie and Kaiser, both known for their dedication and contributions to the paper, expressed concerns regarding the direction under Lewis’s leadership. This communication points to underlying tensions within the organization, as staff dissatisfaction has reportedly reached new heights.

The Washington Post, which has seen a varied trajectory since its acquisition by Bezos in 2013, has faced several challenges, including changes in industry dynamics and shifts in audience engagement. These factors have raised alarms not only among alumni but also within the current staff regarding the leadership and strategic vision of the editorial team.

In light of this, a growing number of Post employees have echoed similar sentiments, indicating that effective leadership is essential for boosting morale and improving coverage. The situation reflects broader trends in the journalism industry, where many legacy publications are grappling with financial pressures and intense competition from digital media.

As discussions around leadership renew, the question remains: Will Bezos heed the advice of former Post leaders, or will Lewis retain his position amid the calls for change?