The Independent gets new editor

Roger Alton oversaw the Observer's change to its Berliner format

Former Observer editor Roger Alton has been named editor of the Independent.

The paper's current editor, Simon Kelner, will become managing director and retain his role as editor-in-chief.

Mr Alton, who said he was "privileged" to take up the position, edited the Observer for nine-and-a-half years and was succeeded last year by his deputy.

He has been named editor of the year twice and oversaw the Observer's change from a broadsheet to its current smaller Berliner format.

Mr Alton said: "I am immensely privileged to have the chance to work on the Independent, which has a terrific team of world-class writers and journalists and remains one of the best-known and most-admired media brands anywhere."

Mr Kelner, who was appointed editor of the Independent in 1998, was named editor of the year in 1999 and in 2003.

When he takes up his new role at the end of next month, he will take responsibility for the commercial, marketing and circulation departments, as well as the editorial management of the Independent and the Independent on Sunday.

Ivan Fallon, chief executive of Independent News and Media (UK), said: "The combination of Simon Kelner and Roger Alton, perhaps the two most outstanding editors of recent years, will be formidable.

"Between them, they have won just about every award in the business."

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