The appointment of Wallace has resulted in Des Kelly, who has acted as editor since Morgan was dismissed over the printing of fake photographs of British soldiers torturing prisoners in Iraq, resigning from the company (see
Sacked Daily Mirror Editor Could Demand Compensation).
Wallace, 43, who has been acting editor of the Sunday Mirror for the past four months, has previously held the position of Daily Mirror’s US editor based in New York, as well as showbusiness editor and head of news.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to lead this great newspaper, especially as I’m going to be working with the most talented team in Fleet Street.”
Wallace has a tough job ahead to boost the flagging circulation figures at the newspaper. Over the past few years these have continued to slide and according to the latest ABC figures, since May 2003, year-on-year circulation has dropped by 6%. Speaking of this Wallace said: “The greatest challenge for national newspapers is circulation, I’m confident that we have the team, the talent and the will to tackle this challenge and I look forward to even greater success for the Daily Mirror.”
It was also announced this morning that current general manager of National Newspapers, Ellis Watson, has been promoted to managing director. The move sees Watson overseeing Wallace in his new role as editor, where previously he would have reported to Trinity chief executive Sly Bailey.
Ellis said: “Richard has bags of ability and huge experience in tabloid newspapers. The Daily Mirror has a fabulous heritage and Richard’s job will be to build on that as we go forward. With his talents and those of the fantastic Mirror team, we have a very bright future ahead of us.”
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