Veteran AP Journalist Named New President of US Civilian Broadcasting Network RFE/RL

Veteran AP Journalist Named New President of US Civilian Broadcasting Network RFE/RL

WASHINGTON, June 10, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Long-time Associated Press journalist Thomas Kent has been named the new president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), the chairman of the network's Board of Directors, Jeff Shell, has announced. Kent, who begins in his new role on June 27, takes over for Nenad Pejic, who served as RFE/RL's acting president for more than two years.

https://photos.prnewswire.com/prnvar/20160610/378057

Kent is a skilled media executive who played a leading role in transforming the AP into a fully digital news organization. He worked at the AP for more than 40 years (1972 to 2016) in roles such as Moscow Bureau Chief, International Editor, Deputy Managing Editor and, most recently, Standards Editor. He has also been involved in corporate strategic planning and developing new multimedia services.

"Tom was chosen in a competitive selection process from a strong field of candidates," Shell said. "RFE/RL will benefit enormously from such an outstanding leader. His track record in digital news expansion and his collaborative leadership style aligns with the board's vision of a unified, innovative and effective U.S. International Media."



"Our winning strategy is our talented staff," said John Lansing, CEO and Director of the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG). "Tom joins a cadre of committed journalists around the world with the simple goal of ensuring that everyone has access to impartial, independent and professional news and information about their communities that helps citizens take more control over their lives.

"He brings extensive experience in developing successful digital media strategies and joins us at a highly dynamic time when BBG networks are streamlining and employing content in creative and impactful ways. I am thrilled to welcome him on board."



Click here for more on the hiring of Thomas Kent.

CONTACT: Nasserie Carew, 202-203-4400, publicaffairs@bbg.gov

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160610/378057



SOURCE Broadcasting Board of Governors

Photo:https://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160610/378057
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Photo:https://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160610/378057
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Broadcasting Board of Governors

Web Site: http://bbg.gov


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