.
Stig Ørskov to Lead WAN-IFRA into Next Chapter, Replacing Vincent Peyrègne
Paris, France – August 22, 2024 – WAN-IFRA, the global organization for news publishers, today announced a leadership transition. Stig Ørskov has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Vincent Peyrègne, who is stepping down after 13 years at the helm. The transition will take effect in early 2026.
Ørskov brings extensive experience in the media industry,most recently as CEO of JP/Politiken Media Group,Denmark‘s leading media company. he has also served as Vice-President of WAN-IFRA for the past six years.
“Stig’s visionary leadership, deep understanding of the media industry, and commitment to journalistic values make him the ideal candidate to steer WAN-IFRA in a rapidly evolving media landscape,” said Ladina Heimgartner, Chairwoman of WAN-IFRA and CEO of Ringier Media Switzerland.
Peyrègne’s 13-year tenure saw important growth and a strengthened financial foundation for the organization. Under his leadership, WAN-IFRA expanded its membership base and became a key advocate for news publishers worldwide, addressing critical issues such as press freedom, digital transformation, and business sustainability.
“This is an exciting new chapter for WAN-IFRA. I am proud of what we have achieved thanks to an exceptionally committed team and supportive Board members over the past twelve years. I am grateful to all our members for their trust and loyal support for our programs, as confirmed by record participation levels in recent years,” said Peyrègne. “It is an honor to pass the torch to Stig Ørskov, a remarkable manager wiht an extraordinary track record who will take WAN-IFRA to a new level.”
Following the transition, Peyrègne will continue to work with WAN-IFRA as Senior Strategic Advisor, ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities.Ørskov expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am deeply honored and excited to take on the role of CEO of WAN-IFRA. Our industry faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities, and I look forward to working with the WAN-IFRA team, our members, and stakeholders to advance the mission of WAN-IFRA in these turbulent times. Our mission is clear: we will defend press freedom and safeguard the public trust in journalism while supporting our members in building the future of news media on the foundation of innovation and creativity that define the spirit of our global community.”
WAN-IFRA Executive Board:
Ladina Heimgartner (President), head Ringier Media & CEO Ringier Media Switzerland
Mariam Mammen Mathew (Vice-President), CEO Manorama Online, India
Stig Kirk Ørskov (Vice President), CEO, JP/Politiken Media Group, Denmark (until December 31, 2025)
Sandy Prieto-Romualdez, President & CEO Philippine Daily Inquirer – Group CEO, Inquirer Group, The Philippines
Pia Rehnquist, Head of Bonnier News Local, Sweden
Luciano Stulin (Chair DistriPress Advisory Board), Head of International, IPS Group, Germany
Paul Verwilt (Treasurer), COO Mediahuis, Belgium
David Walmsley (President World Editors Forum), Editor-in-Chief, The Globe and Mail, Canada
* Werner Zitzmann (Chair of the Associations Committee), Executive director, AMI – Colombian Association of Facts Media, Colombia
Contact:
Thomas Jacob, Chief Operating Officer, WAN-IFRA
About WAN-IFRA:
WAN-IFRA is the global organization for news publishers, representing 18,000 publications in 120 countries. Its mission is to defend press freedom and safeguard the public trust in journalism while supporting its members in building the future of news media.
