Wendy McMahon Resigns as Head of CBS News: “Company and I Do Not Agree on the Path Forward”

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Wendy McMahon is exiting CBS News.

McMahon stated in a memo to staff on Monday that it’s apparent we have different views about the company’s future direction. He feels it’s now his time to depart, allowing the organization to progress with fresh leadership. For the past few months, he has been strengthening our businesses and positioning the right individuals as leaders, and he is confident they will continue to excel and maintain high standards.

This version maintains the original meaning while using simpler language and a more conversational tone.

Here is McMahon’s full memo:

Hey folks, I wanted to share some news with all of you. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for me, as I’m moving on from my roles as president, CEO of CBS News and Stations, and CBS Media Ventures. It’s been an incredible journey, but it’s time for me to explore new horizons. Wishing everyone the best in their future endeavors!

This experience has significantly impacted my professional journey as I’ve had the privilege of guiding an exceptional team. Working with each one of you has been an extraordinary privilege due to your unwavering dedication to truth, justice, and upholding the utmost standards. Your commitment remains indisputable.

I’ve taken great pleasure in championing and backing the exceptional journalism from stations and bureaus worldwide. I’ve celebrated the achievements of our shows and brands, amplifying our stories and our team members. It’s been an honor and a source of immense satisfaction.

Concurrently, these last few months have been tough. It’s evident now that our visions for the future differ. Therefore, it’s appropriate for me to depart and allow this organization to advance under fresh leadership.

Over the past several months, I’ve been strengthening our companies and putting the right people in charge. I am confident that they will maintain the high standards we have set.

You’re absolutely in capable hands with Tom, Jennifer, John, Matt, and Robert. These outstanding individuals, renowned for their leadership skills, will undoubtedly safeguard and honor your achievements. I have no doubt about it.

To George: Thank you for this opportunity.

Dear Audience, We truly appreciate your faith in us. Your expectations keep us on our toes and underscore the importance of what we do.

To our audience, thank you for your trust. You challenge us to be better, and your presence highlights the significance of our work.

Dear CBS News, Stations, and CMV Teams: I want to express my gratitude for the enthusiasm, expertise, and collaboration that you’ve shown. It has been an honor to embark on this journey alongside you.

Best Regards, Wendy

Hey fellow gamers,

Just wanted to let you all know that when I refer to “George” in our discussions, I’m talking about George Cheeks – one of the big bosses at Paramount Global. He recently sent out an email to us staff members, so if you hear any updates related to him, remember it’s him we’re talking about!

Stay tuned for more game-changing news from our team leaders!

Game on!

Dear CBS Team,
Just now, Wendy McMahon informed us of her intention to resign from her roles as President and CEO of CBS News and Stations, along with CBS Media Ventures (CMV). I’m sharing the email she sent to her teams below.

In the future, both CBS News President Tom Cibrowski and CBS Stations President Jennifer Mitchell will have me as their direct superior. For CMV, Scott Trupchak, in charge of advertising sales, and John Budkins, overseeing programming and production, will now report to Bryon Rubin, who is CBS’ Chief Operating Officer and CFO. Wendy will be here for a short while to assist with the transition process.

As a gamer, I’d like to take a moment to express my gratitude to Wendy for her exceptional partnership these past four years. Under her guidance, the competitive edge and atmosphere at our television stations have seen a remarkable transformation, and we’ve made great strides in expanding local news coverage. Our streaming news platforms – both national and local – are thriving and growing stronger, with digital extensions now integrated into several of our iconic CBS News broadcasts.

In an ever-evolving global landscape, Wendy and her team have been tirelessly refining a strategic plan and establishing structures that prepare our news operations for tomorrow. This involves progress in data-driven journalism, grassroots reporting, technological advancements, and centralizing editorial decisions to facilitate swifter collaboration among teams.

I’d like to express my gratitude along with you, for all the wonderful contributions Wendy has made. Here’s to wishing her great success as she embarks on her next journey!

Best regards,
[Your Name]

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2025-05-19 17:54