News Corporation today announced the appointment of Rebekah Brooks to the role of Chief Executive Officer of News International. 

In her new role, she will assume responsibility for the day-to-day operations of News International, covering all four titles, The Sun, The Times, The Sunday Times, and News of the World.  

Rebekah will continue to report to James Murdoch, News Corporation’s Chairman and Chief Executive, Europe and Asia, who will additionally become Executive Chairman of News International.  Both appointments will be effective 1 September 2009.

Rebekah has been Editor of The Sun, the UK’s most popular newspaper, for over six years. Prior to that, she spent three years as Editor of the UK’s leading Sunday tabloid, News of the World. A new Editor of The Sun will be announced later in the summer.

Announcing Rebekah Brooks' appointment, James Murdoch said: “Rebekah combines enormous editorial talent with commercial and strategic creativity at the highest level. I know that in this new role she will make a huge contribution to the business of journalism and to News Corporation’s continued role as a pacesetter in this incredible business.”

Rebekah Brooks said: “Our titles are among the best in the world thanks to an unrelenting focus on high quality journalism that connects with its readers.  At such a crucial time for the newspaper industry, I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with the exceptional team here and believe that we have an exciting future.”

Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, News Corporation, said: “Rebekah is a great campaigning editor who has worked her way up through the company with an energy and enthusiasm that reflects true passion for newspapers and an understanding of the crucial contribution that independent journalism makes to society. Her promotion reflects the importance of journalism to this business.

“News International has set a clear course, having reinvented itself with a new commercial structure and a commitment to investing in its journalism to deliver market share gains. I am confident that we have the right team to lead News International as we develop a new model for our industry. Personally, I’m thrilled that Rebekah’s energetic leadership will be felt even more widely in the company.”