Mark Thompson Biography

Sir Mark Thompson is chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, overseeing all aspects of the business in the United States and internationally. He also serves as editor-in-chief of CNN. Thompson's appointment followed a career leading major news organizations, recognized for his editorial leadership and expertise in digital transformation. He was knighted for services to media in King Charles III's Birthday Honours.

Thompson began his media career at BBC, joining as a production trainee and advancing over more than three decades. At age 30, he became editor of the "Nine O'Clock News," and later editor of "Panorama." He served as chief executive of Channel 4 before returning to BBC as its 14th director-general. During his tenure, he guided BBC's coverage of global events, advanced its digital offerings, and oversaw the launch of BBC's iPlayer, a pioneering streaming service. Forbes magazine ranked Thompson among the most powerful people in the world.

Thompson later served as president and CEO of The New York Times Company, where he led the transformation of the news brand into a digital-focused organization. Under his leadership, The New York Times increased paid digital subscriptions and expanded digital revenues. Thompson directed initiatives such as the expansion into podcasting, the acquisition of Wirecutter, and the introduction of digital subscriptions like NYT Cooking. The company's stock value increased significantly during his tenure.

At CNN, Thompson has integrated linear and digital newsrooms and launched the network's subscription streaming service, All Access. He announced a restructuring to accelerate the network's digital operations. Thompson also serves as chairman of Ancestry, deputy chair of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and co-chair of the International Fund for Public Interest Media.

Thompson is a published author and public intellectual. His book, "Enough Said: What's Gone Wrong with the Language of Politics?" was published in the United Kingdom and United States. He is an honorary fellow of Merton College Oxford and a member of the American Philosophical Society. With extensive experience at the intersection of journalism, technology, and institutional leadership, Thompson offers insight into the future of media, democracy, and the evolving relationship between news organizations and audiences.

BOOK Mark Thompson

Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 10/07/2026.

Mark Thompson Videos

Media is not dead and the NY Times is ONIT with Mark Thompson

Media is not dead and the NY Times is ONIT with Mark Thompson

Matthew Panzarino chats with Mark Thompson of the New York Times about living with Trump, the paper's mission, and future innovations for ...

Mark Thompson, CEO of the New York Times

Mark Thompson, CEO of the New York Times

On 5 April, Mark Thompson, the New York Times CEO, was at Sciences Po to speak about “Journalism in the era of distrust”. In an interview for ...

Mark Thompson, The New York Times, Evolution of Audiences

Mark Thompson, The New York Times, Evolution of Audiences

Mark Thompson, President & CEO of The New York Times talks about how the company has shifted to meet the changes in audience behavior, ...

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  • What topics does Mark Thompson speak about?

    Mark Thompson is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Broadcasting, Communication, Disruptive Thinking, Executive Leadership, Journalist, Marketing, Modern Media, News & Media, Thought Leadership
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Mark Thompson is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Mark Thompson for your event is available upon request. Mark Thompson generally travels from and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Cindi Leive, Shelly Palmer, Kyle Christie, Mark Friedlander and Katie Konans. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Mark Thompson for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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