McClatchy Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to journalistic integrity, McClatchy upholds a leadership philosophy centered on community engagement and delivering essential local news across its diverse portfolio of publications.

Leadership Roles at McClatchy

  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Anthony Hunter
  • President - Tefferi Gashaw
  • President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor - Stephanie Pedersen
  • Division Media Chief of Staff - Jane Howard
  • Chief of Staff and Local News - Kathy Vetter
  • 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 mission to provide vital local news and information, overseeing all aspects of the publishing business, including daily and non-daily newspapers, alongside direct marketing operations. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for McClatchy's continued evolution in the media landscape, ensuring financial stability and driving growth initiatives across its extensive network of publications. Anthony Hunter's focus remains on strengthening the company's market position and fostering a culture of innovation within its newsrooms and business units. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the company's historical commitment to journalism while adapting to contemporary media consumption patterns.
    Anthony Hunter

    Tefferi Gashaw - President

    Tefferi Gashaw, the President at McClatchy, oversees significant operational segments of the company, driving performance and strategic implementation. Gashaw manages key business units, ensuring their alignment with McClatchy's broader objectives of journalistic excellence and financial sustainability. This executive role involves directing resources, optimizing workflows, and fostering a productive environment for employees across various divisions. Tefferi Gashaw's leadership focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of operations and expanding the reach of McClatchy's news products. The President is instrumental in navigating the complexities of the media industry, ensuring that the company remains a vital source of information for its readership.

    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, directs editorial strategy and operational leadership for key publications in the Northwest region. Pedersen oversees the newsgathering and editorial processes for The News Tribune and The Olympian, ensuring high standards of journalism and community relevance. This multifaceted role involves managing editorial teams, guiding content direction, and driving audience engagement across print and digital platforms. Stephanie Pedersen's leadership focuses on strengthening local news coverage and reinforcing McClatchy's commitment to serving its regional audiences with impactful reporting. The President & Northwest Regional Editor plays a crucial part in maintaining the integrity and vitality of local journalism.
    Stephanie Pedersen

    Jane Howard - Division Media Chief of Staff

    Jane Howard, the Division Media Chief of Staff at McClatchy, provides critical operational support and strategic coordination across various media divisions. Howard facilitates communication and drives key initiatives, ensuring seamless execution of the company's strategic objectives. This role involves managing cross-functional projects and supporting executive decision-making to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness within the media operations. Jane Howard's contributions are vital to streamlining processes and optimizing resource allocation across the company's diverse portfolio of newspapers and digital platforms. The Division Media Chief of Staff works closely with leadership to implement strategic plans and monitor progress towards key performance indicators, ensuring the company's ongoing success in the dynamic news industry.

    Kathy Vetter - Chief of Staff and Local News

    Kathy Vetter, the Chief of Staff and Local News at McClatchy, spearheads initiatives focused on strengthening local news operations and enhancing community engagement. Vetter directs efforts to ensure the quality and impact of reporting across McClatchy's local news outlets, supporting journalists and editors in their mission. This leadership position involves developing strategies to deepen the connection between local newsrooms and the communities they serve, fostering trust and readership. Kathy Vetter's responsibilities include driving innovation in local news delivery and supporting the operational needs of news teams to maintain high journalistic standards. The Chief of Staff and Local News plays a pivotal role in upholding McClatchy's commitment to providing essential, relevant local information to its audiences.
    Billie McConkey, the Chief Legal Officer & Chief People Officer at McClatchy, provides comprehensive oversight for both legal affairs and human capital management. McConkey ensures the company operates in full compliance with all relevant laws and regulations while simultaneously cultivating a robust and supportive work environment for all employees. This dual role involves managing corporate governance, risk mitigation, and all legal matters, alongside developing and executing strategies for talent acquisition, employee development, and organizational culture. Billie McConkey's leadership is critical in safeguarding the company's interests and fostering a motivated, engaged workforce essential for sustained success in the competitive media sector.
    Billie McConkey

    Explore Leadership Teams in Media & Internet

    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 Tefferi Gashaw (President) and Stephanie Pedersen (President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor).
    Who is part of McClatchy’s executive team?
    The executive team of McClatchy includes leaders such as Anthony Hunter (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Tefferi Gashaw (President), Stephanie Pedersen (President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor) 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, President & The News Tribune Editor & Olympian, Northwest Regional Editor, Division Media Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff and Local News.