New Channel 13 News CEO Vows Independence Amidst Rating Pressure

Itai Dancner officially assumed his role as CEO of Channel 13 News on Wednesday, succeeding Tali Ben-Ovadia. His appointment followed a legal dispute initiated by Keshet 12, which sought to enforce a cooling-off period due to Dancner's prior involvement in their internal strategy. A compromise was reached, allowing Dancner to start but requiring him to sign a confidentiality agreement and a non-solicitation clause for employees.

Dancner addressed the staff in a letter on his first day, acknowledging the complex and divided Israeli media landscape. He stated that the news company would not tell viewers what they want to hear, but rather what they need to know, even if the truth is uncomfortable. He emphasized a commitment to liberal, credible, independent, curious, and brave journalism that does not require viewers to choose sides.

While Dancner stressed continuity and maintaining the newsroom's existing strengths, he also signaled that changes are necessary. He wrote that the company must be honest about areas needing improvement and that continuing practices solely because "they have always been done" is insufficient. This suggests a willingness to adapt and develop new ideas, even if it means challenging established norms.

Dancner assured employees he would be attentive but not necessarily agreeable to all suggestions, indicating that while he seeks creative solutions and employee consensus, changes are inevitable. The article notes that Channel 13 News has had four CEOs in a short period and questions whether Rappaport and Idan Elrom will support Dancner's decisions, especially if they lead to conflict with senior talent. Despite Dancner's emphasis on journalistic principles over ratings, the article speculates that rating performance might be the first area to see significant changes.