What does it take to lead journalists through uncertainty, resistance, and constant change?
In this episode of Insight Shapes News by Kilkaya, host Nils Ove Håland Riise speaks with Jeremy Clifford, former Editor-in-Chief of one of the UK’s largest media organisations and now a leadership coach working with newsrooms.
Jeremy argues that the demands placed on newsroom leaders have shifted significantly. Editors are expected to manage AI adoption, interpret data, drive subscription growth, and guide teams through restructuring and uncertainty. Many were promoted for their journalistic ability rather than for leading people.
The conversation examines where leadership most often weakens: unclear communication, misalignment between strategy and daily priorities, reluctance to address performance issues, and insufficient preparation for handling resistance to change.
Jeremy outlines practical approaches from his coaching work, including how to structure performance conversations, how to establish authority without needing expertise in every technical area, and how to maintain trust during restructures.
The discussion also addresses how data and AI influence editorial decision-making, and why leaders must operate with incomplete information while remaining clear in direction.
🎧 Topics we cover:
Why newsroom leadership struggles during transformation
The difference between editorial skill and leadership capability
A structured method for handling difficult conversations
How tone and communication shapes newsroom culture
Leading journalists who resist strategic change
Managing trust and morale during restructuring
The balance between authority and influence
How data and AI affect decision-making
The importance of clarity under pressure
Whether leadership can be developed
If you work in newsroom leadership, editorial strategy, or product, this episode offers a focused discussion on how leadership shapes organisational outcomes.
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Take your Leadership Readiness Assessment test from Jeremy:
https://assessment.chrysalis-leadership.com/
Chapters:
00:00 The Need for Quality Leadership in Newsrooms
02:49 Navigating Change and Digital Transformation
05:16 Building Effective Leadership Skills
08:00 The Importance of Leadership Tone
11:07 Earning Influence in a Newsroom
14:01 Selecting the Right Team Members
16:50 Handling Difficult Conversations
19:33 The Role of Empathy in Leadership
22:06 Communicating Change Effectively
25:05 The Impact of AI and Data on Leadership
27:45 Values and Trust in Leadership
30:24 The Challenges of Leadership Under Pressure
33:10 The Evolution of Leadership in Newsrooms
35:59 The Future of Leadership with AI
38:47 Navigating Data in Leadership
41:48 The Importance of Clarity and Authenticity
44:31 Connecting with Staff in High-Pressure Situations
47:06 Is Leadership for Everyone?
49:52 Self-Reflection and Growth in Leadership
52:50 Final Thoughts on Leadership Challenges
