CNN is preparing for a leadership transition with the appointment of Alex MacCallum as its new chief operating officer, a move that signals his potential elevation as successor to current CEO Mark Thompson. MacCallum, who previously collaborated with Thompson at The New York Times Company, has led CNN’s digital operations, reflecting the network’s ongoing emphasis on expanding its digital footprint. Thompson communicated the decision to staff earlier this week, according to industry sources.

This appointment alters the landscape of internal contenders for top leadership roles. Executive editor Virginia Moseley, who had been widely regarded as a possible candidate for higher executive responsibilities, is reportedly not seeking a different position. A CNN spokesperson confirmed that Moseley remains focused on her current role overseeing the network’s global news operations.

Meanwhile, ABC News announced a key programming leadership change, naming Jon Schlosberg as the new executive producer of “This Week with George Stephanopoulos,” the network’s flagship Sunday political show. Schlosberg will assume the role on May 6, working alongside Stephanopoulos and co-anchors Martha Raddatz and Jonathan Karl.

Schlosberg brings significant experience in digital news, having served as senior producer of “Prime with Linsey Davis,” ABC News Live’s primary streaming newscast. Since joining ABC News in 2018, he has been instrumental in launching and developing the network’s 24/7 streaming platform, reflecting ABC’s strategic push into digital media. Prior to his tenure at ABC News, Schlosberg worked at KGO-TV, the ABC-owned station in San Francisco.

These leadership adjustments at CNN and ABC News highlight a broader trend of prioritizing digital expertise and evolving organizational structures within major news organizations as they adapt to shifting media consumption habits.