MSNBC will soon be under new leadership. The president of the network Rashida Jones made the decision to step down from the role.
After four years at the network, Jones is stepping away. From the sounds of things, she's looking for new opportunities elsewhere and won't continue in a different role with the network. Though Jones's exit comes at a difficult time ratings-wise for MSNBC, it sounds like it was a personal choice more than anything.
Rashida Jones Leaves MSNBC
Jones chose to step away on her own terms. She is severed more than 11 years with NBCU, but may the future be filled with prospects.
"After four incredible years at the helm of MSNBC and 11 years at NBCU, I have made the decision to pursue new opportunities," Jones
For the time being, Rebecca Kutler, senior vice president of content strategy, will step into the position. The shake-up comes as MSNBC is facing a massive ratings slump. Its parent company Comcast plans to repackage its assets into a new entity called SpinCo. There's a lot up in the air as far as what the future holds for the network.
Veteran executive Mark Lazarus, who is leading the repackaging, says the news took her by surprise. He asked Jones to stay on for a few more months "to help guide the network during this transitional period."
"When Rashida shared this with me at the end of last week, I was surprised," Lazarus said, according to MSNBC. "I was a little saddened for the company but very happy for her to be able to come to grips with a hard decision — a very personal decision."
In his own memo, Lazarus praised the executive for the work that she has done at
"Rashida has expertly navigated MSNBC through a years-long, unrelenting and unprecedented news cycle, all while driving the network to record viewership and making investments in nonlinear businesses. MSNBC is well-positioned for the future," Lazarus wrote.
"I am grateful that she will continue to support us during this transition," Lazarus continued.
Her exit comes just days before Donald Trump is set to take office.
