CNN Appoints New COO to Prioritize Digital and Streaming

Alex MacCallum replaces David Leavy as CNN's chief operating officer, signaling a strategic shift toward digital and streaming operations.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:23am

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a sleek laptop computer, wireless mouse, and business documents, symbolizing the digital transformation of a major media company.CNN's strategic shift toward digital and streaming operations is reflected in the network's appointment of a new chief operating officer to oversee its evolving consumer strategy and product development.Today in Miami

CNN has appointed Alex MacCallum as its new chief operating officer, replacing David Leavy. The move signals a strategic prioritization of digital and streaming operations under the leadership of CEO Mark Thompson. MacCallum previously served as the executive vice president of digital products and services for two years and has already achieved critical accomplishments in record time, according to Thompson.

Why it matters

The expanded responsibilities for the chief operating officer role now include oversight of consumer strategy, operations, mission-driven project work, and strategic partnerships and business development. This reflects the industry-wide shift toward digital and streaming platforms as traditional linear TV viewership declines.

The details

MacCallum will continue to manage the network's product and digital revenue and operations group. She has led several digital initiatives at CNN, including the launch of the All Access subscription tier and the development of the CNN Express FAST channel and an upcoming weather service. Thompson has focused on integrating digital operations with the network's linear business as the industry faces challenges from cord-cutting and a shift toward social media and streaming.

  • On April 10, 2026, CNN CEO Mark Thompson announced MacCallum's appointment in a memo to employees.
  • MacCallum previously served as the executive vice president of digital products and services for two years.

The players

Alex MacCallum

The new chief operating officer of CNN, who previously served as the executive vice president of digital products and services.

Mark Thompson

The CEO of CNN, who announced MacCallum's appointment in a memo to employees.

David Leavy

The former chief operating officer of CNN, who is being replaced by MacCallum.

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What they’re saying

“Alex has already achieved an impressive set of critical accomplishments in record time”

— Mark Thompson, CEO, CNN

What’s next

The expanded responsibilities for the chief operating officer role will include oversight of consumer strategy, operations, mission-driven project work, and strategic partnerships and business development.

The takeaway

The appointment of Alex MacCallum as CNN's new chief operating officer signals a strategic shift toward prioritizing digital and streaming operations as the news industry continues to evolve in the face of declining linear TV viewership and the rise of social media and streaming platforms.