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Topic: Memos Sent to Romenesko
Date/Time: 2/7/2005 10:24:45 AM
Title: Kirkland to step down as Fortune managing editor
Posted By: Jim Romenesko
 
Letter from Fortune managing editor Rik Kirkland:

Dear colleagues and friends,

Over a decade at the top of this magazine -- for six years as John Huey's co-conspirator and then for the past four as M.E. -- I've written an unseemly number of memos announcing bits of news large and small: promotions, reorganizations, awards, departures, arrivals, even births and deaths. While I tried to make them all personal and heartfelt, they always began "To: The Staff." This one, you will note, starts differently. Because it really is personal—and from the heart.

Never one to bury a lead, here's the news: I am stepping down as managing editor of FORTUNE, effective April 1. About five weeks ago, when I returned from Christmas vacation, I approached John and Norm to discuss my desire to stop writing memos (and supervising budgets, devising edit calendars, etc.) and to start doing what got me into this business to begin with—writing stories that shed light on the ideas, people and trends shaping the fascinating, complicated world we live in. I wanted to see if there was a chance we could work something out and, if so, to give them time to find a successor. We did, and they are close to making their choice. They'll be sharing that news shortly.

Running FORTUNE is the best executive job in journalism. That's mostly a tribute to all of you, your intelligence, your creativity, your talent, your decency. Through boom and bust, you have consistently produced the finest magazine in our field—indeed one of the finest, period. Every day I've spent working with and through you has been a joy and a privilege. I couldn't be prouder of what we have accomplished. But having had that pleasure, I have no desire to run anything else. So after ten incredible years managing and editing this magazine (note to my successor: the editing part is the most fun!), I look forward to the next chapter.

Change is good. That line appeared often in those staff memos I will soon stop composing. It did because I believe that reinvention is what keeps life interesting—both for individuals and for institutions. It's nice to leave this job on a high note, with a series of strong issues and with ad sales and newstand sales up solidly in 2004 after some tough years. What's even nicer is how excited this former Washington writer turned ex-Europe editor turned ex-senior editor turned ex-international editor and soon-to-be former managing editor is about the prospect of turning his voice and 26 years of experience loose on a new career as a magazine writer, book writer, speaker. FORTUNE, too, will be recharged by the new leadership it's about to receive.

As we manage this transition, I know you will do all you can to help Hank Gilman and me keep the magazine rolling ahead. And after that, while I won't be hanging around the 15th floor, I'll look forward to your continued counsel and support. There will be much more to add in the days ahead. For now, I just want to say—to all of you—thanks.

Rik

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