Andrew Miller to Stand Down as GMG CEO

Andrew Miller is to stand down after almost five years as chief executive of the Guardian Media Group during which time the company behind the Guardian and Observer newspapers and theguardian.com has expanded overseas and increased digital revenues.

Mr Miller’s departure, at the end of June this year, means that the new editor-in-chief due to take over from Alan Rusbridger – who also stands down this summer – will work alongside a new commercial head of the business, GMG said this morning (Thursday).

Mr Miller said: “Having achieved our strategy to streamline the group, secure its financial future and set it on the path to digital success, I have decided that mid-2015 will be the right time for me to explore new opportunities and for a new editor and chief executive to take the company on the next big phase of the Guardian’s digital growth and international expansion.

“My successor will inherit a business with very strong commercial foundations in place. It has been a privilege to help equip GMG for a sustainable financial future, securing the unique contribution made by the Guardian to national and international debate for many years to come.”

Neil Berkett, GMG chair, said: “Andrew has done an outstanding job as chief executive, helping to transform the financial resources of GMG. His lasting legacy will include a strong investment strategy, a healthy increase in underlying revenues, and an ambitious vision for the Guardian’s future. We have an experienced management and editorial team in place to realise that vision.”

Liz Forgan, Scott Trust chair, the ultimate owner of the Guardian, said: “From his exceptional stewardship of our portfolio of assets to his unfailing support of our journalism, Andrew has been a tremendous champion of the Guardian. We owe him a great deal and wish him every possible success.

“GMG is entering a new period of growth, thanks to the strategic leadership of Andrew Miller and Alan Rusbridger. Together, they have positioned the Guardian to build on its worldwide audience and to capitalise on its new commercial and digital opportunities.”

The board of GMG is to begin a search for a new chief executive shortly.