New global director of BBC News announced

Jonathan Munro has been announced as the new global director of BBC News.

Munro, who is currently director of journalism and deputy CEO of BBC News and current affairs, will take up the post from September.

The former correspondent has been at the BBC since 2014.

Munro said he was "thrilled and daunted in equal measure".

"The need for independent news is growing, not shrinking, and the BBC’s role in pursuing truth and enriching knowledge has never been more important.

“The BBC teams I have met across the world are dedicated, professional and talented. I can’t wait to start working with them all,” he added.

His new role means he will also take up the post of director of the BBC World Service and oversee BBC Monitoring.

He will also maintain his role as deputy CEO of BBC News.

In 2022, Munro acted as the interim director of BBC News and recently led the transformation of the BBC's business in India.

Prior to joining the BBC, Munro spent 26 years at ITN.

He was Europe Correspondent for three years and Political News Editor for two and has covered the Balkans war, both Gulf wars and the Beijing and London Olympics.

Deborah Turness, the CEO of the BBC News, said: "I know at first hand the qualities Jonathan will bring to this vital role – his leadership, his expertise, and above all, his journalistic integrity.

“The BBC is a truly global broadcaster and the World Service is a priceless asset – the world’s most trusted international news provider. In a world of disinformation and diminishing freedom of speech, it is more needed than ever, and I’m delighted Jonathan will be taking its helm, and that of all BBC News’ international services.”