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Journal Publishing Appoints New CEO

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/10/journal-publishing-appoints-new-ceo.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 22:22 GMT by Daily Journal
      Locales: Mississippi, UNITED STATES

PONTOTOC, MS - February 11th, 2026 - Journal Publishing today announced the appointment of Ben Blakeley as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant transition for the venerable local news organization. Blakeley, formerly the company's Chief Operating Officer, officially assumes the role immediately, succeeding Richard Hancock who is retiring after three decades of dedicated service. Hancock will remain with the company as a consultant to ensure a smooth handover of leadership.

While the announcement itself is straightforward, it signals a broader trend within the media landscape: a changing of the guard and a renewed focus on the future of local journalism. Journal Publishing, a cornerstone of the Pontotoc community for generations, faces both opportunities and challenges in an increasingly digital world. Blakeley's appointment suggests a strategic approach geared towards navigating these complexities and ensuring the continued relevance of the publication.

Blakeley's long tenure at Journal Publishing is seen as a major asset. Having risen through the ranks, he possesses an intimate understanding of the company's operations, its strengths, and its areas for improvement. Sources within the organization describe him as a data-driven leader with a strong commitment to journalistic integrity and community engagement. He's been widely credited with streamlining internal processes and spearheading several successful digital initiatives during his time as COO.

"This is a bittersweet moment," Blakeley stated in a press release. "Richard has led this company with grace and distinction for many years, and we're grateful for his service. I'm excited to lead Journal Publishing into the future and continue our mission of delivering quality journalism to our communities." This statement highlights a clear commitment to preserving the core values of Journal Publishing while simultaneously embracing innovation.

Richard Hancock's departure marks the end of an era. His 30-year leadership saw Journal Publishing through significant changes in the media industry, including the rise of the internet and the proliferation of social media. He is remembered as a champion of local reporting and a staunch defender of the First Amendment. Hancock's willingness to remain as a consultant demonstrates his ongoing dedication to the organization and his belief in Blakeley's ability to lead it forward.

However, the transition occurs at a crucial time for local news organizations nationwide. Revenue models are being disrupted, readership is fragmented, and competition from online sources is fierce. Journal Publishing, like many of its peers, has been forced to adapt to survive. Blakeley is expected to accelerate these efforts, focusing on building a sustainable business model that can support high-quality journalism.

Industry analysts predict that Blakeley will prioritize several key areas. These include expanding the company's digital footprint, diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional advertising, and strengthening community ties through targeted content and events. There's also speculation that Journal Publishing may explore partnerships with other local organizations to share resources and expand its reach. A key challenge will be balancing the need for profitability with the commitment to providing essential local news coverage, particularly in areas where other media outlets have diminished or disappeared.

Furthermore, the future likely involves a deeper integration of data analytics to better understand audience preferences and tailor content accordingly. Expect to see more personalized news experiences and an increased emphasis on investigative reporting that holds local institutions accountable. Blakeley will also need to address the growing issue of news literacy and combat the spread of misinformation, ensuring that Journal Publishing remains a trusted source of information for the community.

The appointment of Blakeley isn't just a changing of the guard at Journal Publishing; it's a symbol of the evolving landscape of local news. His success will depend on his ability to innovate, adapt, and remain true to the core mission of delivering quality journalism to the communities it serves. The coming years will be pivotal for Journal Publishing and, arguably, for the future of local news in Pontotoc and beyond.