Brian McGrory Returns to Led The Boston Globe Newsroom
The Boston Globe is set to welcome back Brian McGrory as its editor, effective January 5, marking a significant leadership shift for the renowned publication. The announcement, made by co-owner and chief executive Linda henry on Monday, follows the departure of Nancy Barnes, who will transition to an editor-at-large role at the end of this week.
McGrory’s return represents a homecoming for a journalist deeply rooted in the Globe’s history. He previously served as editor from 2012 until early 2023, a period marked by journalistic success and innovation. “Brian’s passion for the Globe and his love of Boston are deeply intertwined,” Henry stated, expressing confidence in his ability to guide the newsroom forward.
During his initial tenure, The Boston Globe garnered three Pulitzer Prizes, including the prestigious award for breaking news reporting for its comprehensive coverage of the 2013 boston Marathon bombing. McGrory’s 34-year career at the Globe began in 1989 as a reporter, steadily rising through the ranks to become the newsroom’s top editor in 2012.
Beyond his commitment to the Globe, mcgrory has continued to shape the landscape of journalism. Currently chair of boston University’s journalism department,he spearheaded a local reporting initiative that connects student journalists with established news organizations like Brookline.News,the Dorchester Reporter,and Gotta Know Medford. This program, which has already produced 400 stories, provides invaluable real-world experience for aspiring journalists while bolstering local news coverage.
McGrory’s influence extends beyond Boston, as he has played a pivotal role in the development of the Baltimore banner, a rapidly growing digital publication challenging the long-standing Baltimore Sun. He has served in multiple leadership positions at the Banner, including interim editor and interim chief executive, and the publication recently earned its first Pulitzer Prize in May. according to a Globe spokesperson, McGrory brings “a distinguished track record across journalism, academia, and nonprofit news” to his new role.
Barnes’ three-year leadership saw The Boston Globe recognized as a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in public service for its reporting on the steward Health Care crisis. The newsroom also received national acclaim for its digital reporting and investigative work on the Charles and Carol Stuart murder case and the death of Sandra Birchmore.
McGrory’s return signals a renewed chapter for The Boston Globe, blending his deep institutional knowledge with a forward-looking vision for the future of journalism. His commitment to both established reporting and innovative initiatives positions the Globe to continue its legacy of impactful storytelling and community service.
Why: Brian McGrory is returning to The Boston Globe as editor,replacing Nancy Barnes,who is moving to an editor-at-large role. The change aims to leverage McGrory’s deep experience and vision for the future of the publication.
Who: Brian McGrory, the incoming editor, has a 34-year history with the Globe, previously serving as editor from 2012-2023. Nancy Barnes,the outgoing editor,will become editor-at-large. Linda Henry, co-owner and CEO, announced the change.
What: The Boston Globe is undergoing a leadership transition, with McGrory resuming his role as editor. this signifies a return to a familiar leader with a proven track record of journalistic success.
How did it end?: Nancy Barnes’ three-year tenure as editor concluded with the Globe being recognized as a pulitzer Prize finalist and receiving acclaim for its investigative and digital reporting. She is now transitioning to an editor-at-large position, paving the way for McGrory’s return on January 5th.
