In this video, President and Co-Publisher J.C. Blucher Ehringhaus III reflects on the ongoing turnaround project. Mr. Ehringhaus stepped into the role when his sister, Josephine Ehringhaus Ayers, passed away in November 2023 at age 83. Ms. Ayers was married to H. Brandt Ayers who led his family’s newspaper from 1965 until March 2019. Mr. Ayers died in May 2020.
General Manager Ginna Gray was serving as an assistant circulation director when the ownership identified her as a top change leader. Here Gray talks about the impetus for a turnaround and what is required from staff to make meaningful progress.
Graphic Designer Jessica Akridge discusses some of the considerations involved in changing the design of a historic newspaper.
Sports Editor Emeritus Mark Edwards has long experimented with innovations in storytelling using new media. In this video, he discusses some of those new ways of telling stories and wonders aloud if newspapers should prioritize skills other than writing prowess.
One of a group of newly hired marketing consultants, Chelsy Glisson explains what she values most about working for a newspaper company.
In order to succeed at a turnaround, it’s important to make sure staff are aligned with the company strategy. With regard to staff who can’t get on board with change, says Gray, best practice is to make the hard decisions quickly.