John Witherow steps down as Times editor after nine years

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy John Witherow has stepped down as editor of The Times after nine years and been appointed chairman of Times Newspapers, News UK has said. News Corp executive chairman Rupert Murdoch praised him as “one of the great editors of his generation” and said he was delighted he would stay with the business. “I am very proud of The Times and The Sunday Times and my sincere thanks go to John for his immense contribution to journalism over the past 42 years. I am delighted that he will stay with the business and take on the role of chairman.” Mr Witherow said: “Throughout my career as an editor, I have always been aware that I have had the heavy responsibility of preserving the reputation and success of these brands so they can continue to succeed for future generations.