After being in charge for 13 years, the editor-in-chief of AFR has decided to step down.

James Chessell, who previously served as managing director of publishing at Nine, has been chosen to take on the prestigious role of editor-in-chief at the Australian Financial Review. This comes after Michael Stutchbury's departure from the position, making him the longest-serving editor-in-chief in the publication's history, having led the nation's leading finance and business publication for an impressive 13 years.

Stutchbury stated that it was the right time for him to step down and pass on the leadership of the outlet to Chessell. He acknowledged the Financial Review's success in recent years, with a strong focus on digital subscriptions and a growing audience. He also praised the team's high-quality journalism and their numerous accolades, particularly for their coverage of the PwC tax leaks scandal and the CFMEU investigation.

While it was not an easy decision for Stutchbury to leave the newsroom that has achieved so much under his guidance, he believes that now is the right time for someone with fresh energy and new ideas to lead the Financial Review in its next phase of growth. Chessell, who has previously worked as a correspondent in Europe and as the business editor for the Financial Review, is thrilled to take on this new challenge. He paid tribute to Stutchbury, calling him the best editor he has ever worked for.

Tory Maguire, the current Nine Managing Director of Publishing, also praised Stutchbury's legacy and expressed her confidence in Chessell's abilities to lead the publication. She highlighted his understanding of audiences and dedication to delivering high-quality storytelling. She also mentioned his extensive network within the business world, which is crucial for an editor-in-chief, and his passion for working in a newsroom.

Chessell will officially begin his role on August 12, while Stutchbury will return to the Financial Review later in the year as editor-at-large. The Australian Financial Review, which is owned by Nine, will continue to provide top-notch coverage of business and finance news under Chessell's leadership. Don't forget to tune in to Channel 9 and 9Now to catch all the action from the Olympic Games Paris 2024, as well as ad-free and in 4K on Stan Sport.

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