Roger Alton steps down as Independent editor

Roger Alton is stepping down as editor of the Independent to be replaced by managing director Simon Kelner with immediate effect.

Kelner is taking on the role on an interim basis until a new editor is found, probably after the 6 May election. He was previously editor of the newspaper between 1998 and 2008 before handing the reigns to Alton.

Alton’s departure comes after the Independent titles were sold to Alexander Lebedev, owner of the London Evening Standard, last month.

Dan Gledhill and Adam Leigh will be joint deputy editors, while John Mullin, editor of the Independent on Sunday, will take on additional duties on the daily paper, with responsibility for driving greater integration between the titles.

Evening Standard editor Geordie Greig will become editorial director across the Standard and Independent titles, retaining his day to day job at the London freesheet.

Alton said: “I think it’s right, following the sale of the paper to Alexander and Evgeny Lebedev, that the new owners should be free to appoint an editor of their own choosing. The two-year period in which I have been editor of the Independent has been easily the most exhilarating and exciting time of my career, and every day has been a chance to learn from a truly remarkable collection of colleagues and workmates, the most talented, dedicated and likeable of any group I have worked with.”

Kelner said: “Roger has edited the Independent throughout one of the most difficult periods in its history and has done so with elan, dedication, skill and his customary energy. His achievement in producing such a terrific newspaper, and in keeping the staff motivated and happy, while being buffeted by the harshest of economic winds is nothing short of remarkable.

“That the Independent lives to fight another day is due in no small part to Roger’s determination to keep the wheels turning. Every member of staff owes him a debt of gratitude, and I am sure I speak for us all in wishing him well for the future.”