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John Arthur, who left last summer as executive editor at the Los Angeles Times, on June 28 begins a three-month stint as interim editor of the Bakersfield Californian. If the parties like each other, he may stay. Newsroom memo there is after the jump — and it's not the first Bfield memo we've run here.
Subject: New interim editorAs you know, Mike Jenner's last scheduled day with us is June 30. Mike's graciousness in giving us a month's notice has allowed us some time to find a quality interim editor candidate.
I'm thrilled to announce that former LA Times Executive Editor John Arthur has agreed to join us starting Monday, June 28, as our interim editor.
Some of you know John, who left the Times last year after 23 years in a wide variety of editing and production roles, most recently as executive editor. His work includes directing coverage of the Northridge earthquake and North Hollywood bank shootout, both of which earned Pulitzer Prizes. In short, he knows his stuff. Richard worked with John at the Times for years, and Mike and I have both worked with John through CNPA. What's equally impressive is he's a genuinely nice guy.
More detail on John's background, his departure from the Times and praise from co-workers is here: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/readers/2009/07/john-arthur-to-leave-times.html#comments
John has agreed to work with us for at least three months while we search for a permanent replacement. Richard, Mike and I are hoping John ends up being that long-term person but agreed a three-month stint would be best to make sure it's a good fit for all involved.
John lives in Santa Monica but will live and work here Monday through Fridays.
There are only three days where John and Mike will be in the office together at the end of the month, but we'll make the most out of those days in welcoming John and thanking Mike and celebrating his wonderful legacy.
Let me know if you have questions.