James Harding leaves BBC News to launch 'distinctly' different journalism startup
The BBC's director of news and current affairs, James Harding, is stepping down at the beginning of 2018 to set up his own news media venture, the public broadcaster has confirmed.
James Harding joined the BBC as director of news in 2013
Harding joined the BBC in 2013 after he resigned as editor of The Times after five years of editing the paper. He replaced Helen Boaden, who moved to the director of radio role (she later left the organisation in September last year).
James Harding said he the decision to leave the media company was not taken lightly, saying he is "proud to have worked for BBC News", even when "peddling into the wind".
But he added that there is some journalism that the BBC "can't, and probably shouldn't do", journalism that will form the basis of his new media venture.
"That’s what I want to explore: I am going to start a new media company with a distinct approach to the news and a clear point of view. I know I will enjoy the chance to do some more journalism of my own and, at such a critical time, I’m seriously excited about the prospect of building a new venture in news. I look forward to being able to say more about it when we get started in the New Year," he said.
Tony Hall, director general of the BBC, added: “James [Harding] has done an incredible job during a hugely complex and momentous period of British and world history. He has led the BBC’s coverage through two referendums, two general elections, an astonishing US Presidential election, not to mention a series of extraordinary events at home and abroad.
“In the years James has been with us he’s played an important part in modernising and changing the BBC, but beyond that, he has been a first-class colleague and a pleasure to work with. We shall miss him and wish him every success with his new venture."