SACRAMENTO - McClatchy (NYSE American: MNI) announced today the promotion of Tim Ritchey to Publisher of three of McClatchy's California media companies, The Fresno Bee, Merced Sun-Star and The Tribune in San Luis Obispo. He will also continue to oversee The Modesto Bee for the near future. This promotion is in addition to Ritchey's current role as Vice President of Advertising Operations for McClatchy's West region. In his new publishing role, Ritchey succeeds Ken Riddick who is stepping down at the end of the year after two decades at McClatchy.
"We are grateful to Ken for his strong leadership and vision," said Gary Wortel, McClatchy's Publisher, West Region. "From his start as photo editor at The Fresno Bee in 1995, Ken's professional trajectory at McClatchy has been inspiring -- he has led our Central Valley media companies through a time of disruption and digital transition and has consistently delivered digital growth. And on a personal level, his humility, sense of humor and passion for our mission will be missed by everyone who has had the privilege of working with him."
Ritchey is also a McClatchy veteran of more than two decades. He has been at The Modesto Bee for the past 11 years and before that, worked in advertising at The Fresno Bee for 13 years.
"We are fortunate to have Tim ready to step into this important role -- combining responsibilities as Vice President of Advertising Operations for the West region with leadership of The Fresno Bee, other Central Valley markets and San Luis Obispo," said Wortel. "Tim's experience as General Manager in Modesto, coupled with his extensive knowledge of the region will be great assets in leading the digital transformation of our Central Valley and San Luis Obispo media companies."
"Fresno is home for me and my family and we are excited to return," commented Ritchey. "The Fresno Bee, Merced Sun-Star and The Tribune each has a strong tradition of local journalism and marketing services for our business partners. I am humbled by the opportunity to help these media companies build an even stronger future."
