• by Ray Schultz , June 9, 2021

Annette Thomas is stepping down as chief executive of Guardian Media Group (GMG) after a little more than a year in the job. 

Thomas, who joined GMG in March 2020, has decided to leave at the end of June, the publisher says.  

Keith Underwood, CFO/COO, will lead GMG as acting chief executive on an interim basis.  

The Scott Trust, the sole shareholder in GMG, began a review of GMG’s governance in April, a process supported and helped by Thomas, GMG says.   

Thomas oversaw a strong financial performance during the turnaround year, growing annual revenue and reducing operating losses by 50% in the face of the pandemic. 

In addition, Thomas worked with the editor-in-chief to create a new strategy focusing on investment in journalism, digital recurring reader revenues, new products, technology and data. 

There was no word on Thomas’ future plans.  

Thomas states: “I have decided to step down from the role of chief executive, as the current governance and structures need more time to fully evolve to support the implementation of the reader-centric strategic plan.” 

GMG chair Neil Berkett states the GMG board is “immensely grateful to Annette for her significant achievements and consistent commitment to her principles and the company’s values.”