Channel 13 News CEO Tali Ben-Ovadyah Resigns After Elections

Tali Ben-Ovadyah, the CEO of Channel 13 News, announced to employees on Thursday that she has requested to end her term after the upcoming elections. Her departure comes less than a year after her permanent appointment to the role, amidst significant changes at Channel 13 following the transfer of control to Assaf Rappaport and Meritz Fund. Ben-Ovadyah is a veteran news editor in Israeli television, having been involved in the establishment of Channel 10 News and ynet, and serving as editor for Channel 2 News and Deputy CEO of News at Channel 10.

She was appointed interim CEO of Channel 13 News in November 2024, following a turbulent period for the company, and her appointment became permanent in January of this year. In her message to staff, Ben-Ovadyah stated, "A few weeks ago, I asked to be released from my position after the elections. I am at peace with the decision, apart from the difficulty of parting with you." She reflected on the past two years, noting the significant period in the country's history that the newsroom covered, calling it "a great privilege to accompany one of the most significant periods of the state."

Her resignation gains further significance due to the recent ownership changes and ongoing transformations at Channel 13. Reports indicate that following the completion of the control transfer, changes are expected in the boards of directors for both Channel 13 and its news division. Subsequently, a new CEO for Channel 13 News is anticipated to be appointed. Ben-Ovadyah concluded her message by urging her staff to focus on their final task: "We have an important election broadcast coming up soon. So give it your all. This time for me. I love you."