Independent editor leaves to give new owners choice for job

Roger Alton has stood down as the Editor of The Independent, paving the way for the paper’s new Russian owners to appoint his successor.

Simon Kelner, the Editor-in-Chief of The Independent and The Independent on Sunday, will temporarily take over day-to-day running of the paper, which was bought last month by Alexander Lebedev, the Russian billionaire, and his son Evgeny. The acquisition is set to be complete in May.

Mr Kelner will edit the paper over the general election period and until a new editor is appointed, a spokesman said.

The Lebedevs have said that they want to “inject new energy and impetus” into the title. They are understood to have approached various high-profile figures to edit the paper, including Greg Dyke, former Director-General of the BBC, although it is understood that no final decisions have been taken.

Mr Alton said: “I think it’s right, following the sale of the paper to Alexander and Evgeny Lebedev, that the new owners should be free to appoint an editor of their own choosing. The two-year period in which I have been editor has been easily the most exhilarating and exciting time of my career.”

Mr Alton edited The Observer for nearly ten years before joining The Independent in July 2008. Widely respected by staff, he was twice named Editor of the Year. In 2007 The Observer won newspaper of the year under his leadership.

Mr Kelner praised his colleague for editing The Independent with “elan, dedication, skill and his customary energy”.

He said: “His achievement in producing such a terrific newspaper, and in keeping the staff motivated and happy, while being buffeted by the harshest of economic winds is nothing short of remarkable.”

Dan Gledhill and Adam Leigh will be joint deputy editors. John Mullin, Editor of The Independent on Sunday, will take on additional responsibilities on the daily paper and lead more integration between the two titles.