McClatchy Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

McClatchy has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and legal affairs.

Driven by a commitment to journalistic integrity, McClatchy upholds a legacy of informing communities and fostering civic engagement through its diverse media operations.

Leadership Roles at McClatchy

  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Anthony Hunter
  • President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor - Stephanie Pedersen
  • President - Tefferi Gashaw
  • Chief of Staff and Local News - Kathy Vetter
  • Division Media Chief of Staff - Jane Howard
  • Chief Legal Officer & Chief People Officer - Billie McConkey
  • Anthony Hunter - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Anthony Hunter, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at McClatchy, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Hunter guides the organization's vision, ensuring alignment with its mission to deliver impactful journalism and maintain a strong market presence in the news industry. This leadership role involves overseeing all major business units and driving initiatives that enhance McClatchy's financial performance and editorial quality. Hunter's strategic direction focuses on adapting to evolving media landscapes and strengthening the company's position as a vital source of local news. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer works closely with the board and executive team to implement long-term growth plans and foster a culture of innovation across all publishing operations. Anthony Hunter's executive oversight ensures the company navigates industry challenges effectively while upholding its commitment to serving its readership.
    Anthony Hunter

    Stephanie Pedersen - President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor

    Stephanie Pedersen, the President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor at McClatchy, leads significant regional publishing operations and editorial direction. Pedersen oversees the strategic management and journalistic integrity of key newspapers within the Northwest region, ensuring high-quality content delivery to local audiences. This leadership position involves driving editorial strategy, managing operational budgets, and fostering a culture of journalistic excellence. The President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor works to enhance reader engagement and expand market reach through innovative storytelling and community-focused journalism. Stephanie Pedersen's extensive experience in news leadership guides the performance and strategic development of the publications under her purview. Pedersen's role is critical in maintaining McClatchy's commitment to impactful local news reporting across the Northwest.
    Stephanie Pedersen

    Tefferi Gashaw - President

    Tefferi Gashaw, the President at McClatchy, directs significant operational functions and strategic initiatives across designated business areas. Gashaw focuses on driving operational efficiency and implementing growth strategies to enhance the company's market position. This executive role involves overseeing key departments, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives, and fostering a performance-driven culture. The President works to optimize resource utilization and identify new opportunities for business development within the media landscape. Tefferi Gashaw's leadership is instrumental in navigating the complexities of the publishing industry and ensuring the sustained success of McClatchy's operations. Gashaw's strategic oversight contributes directly to the company's ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic market environment.

    Kathy Vetter - Chief of Staff and Local News

    Kathy Vetter, the Chief of Staff and Local News at McClatchy, manages critical operational support and champions the strategic development of local news initiatives. Vetter coordinates key projects and ensures seamless communication across departments, facilitating the execution of the company's strategic objectives. This role involves enhancing the effectiveness of local newsrooms, driving innovation in content delivery, and supporting the editorial teams in their mission to serve communities. The Chief of Staff and Local News works to optimize resource allocation and implement best practices across McClatchy's diverse portfolio of newspapers. Kathy Vetter's focus on local news ensures that community-centric reporting remains a cornerstone of the company's operations, fostering deeper engagement with readers and strengthening local journalism. Vetter's efforts directly contribute to the vitality and relevance of McClatchy's regional publications.

    Jane Howard - Division Media Chief of Staff

    Jane Howard, the Division Media Chief of Staff at McClatchy, provides essential strategic and operational support to divisional media leadership. Howard facilitates the implementation of key business strategies and ensures efficient coordination across various media divisions. This position involves streamlining processes, managing cross-functional projects, and enhancing operational effectiveness to support McClatchy's publishing goals. The Division Media Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in aligning divisional objectives with the broader company mission, focusing on driving performance and innovation within the media sector. Jane Howard's contributions are vital for optimizing the operational framework of the media divisions, ensuring they meet market demands and uphold journalistic standards. Howard's role supports the strategic direction and day-to-day management of McClatchy's diverse media assets.
    Billie McConkey, the Chief Legal Officer & Chief People Officer at McClatchy, provides critical oversight for both legal affairs and human capital management. McConkey ensures compliance with all relevant laws and regulations while also developing and executing strategies to attract, retain, and develop talent across the organization. This dual role involves managing corporate legal matters, including litigation and contracts, alongside shaping the company's people strategy to foster a positive and productive work environment. The Chief Legal Officer & Chief People Officer works to mitigate legal risks and enhance employee engagement and organizational development. Billie McConkey's comprehensive leadership supports McClatchy's operational integrity and its commitment to its workforce. McConkey's expertise is vital for navigating complex legal landscapes and cultivating a strong corporate culture.
    Billie McConkey

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding McClatchy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads McClatchy?
    McClatchy is led by Anthony Hunter (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Stephanie Pedersen (President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor) and Tefferi Gashaw (President).
    Who is part of McClatchy’s executive team?
    The executive team of McClatchy includes leaders such as Anthony Hunter (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Stephanie Pedersen (President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor), Tefferi Gashaw (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does McClatchy have?
    McClatchy has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in McClatchy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of McClatchy includes roles such as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor, President, Chief of Staff and Local News, Division Media Chief of Staff.