Stuff welcomes a new editor to The Post

Political and business commentator Matthew Hooton has been appointed editor-in-chief of The Post.

A veteran lobbyist, columnist, political staffer, academic and business owner, Hooton will take the reins of The Post later in June, bringing decades of experience and insight to the role.

Stuff Group owner and publisher Sinead Boucher says: “Few people understand power in New Zealand as well as Matthew does.

“He has lived and breathed political strategy and spin for most of his career, and he knows institutional self-interest better than most. He is also hugely well respected in business circles for his rigorous analysis of the issues facing the country.

“Since we relaunched The Post three years ago, its growth has accelerated through a focus on the intersection of power, politics and the economy. In its next stage of evolution, we wanted an editor with energy, curiosity, urgency and a deep sense of what matters to New Zealand,” says Boucher.

“Matthew is someone who uniquely embodies those qualities, and he has a clear understanding of the critical role independent journalism plays in the national conversation.

“I have no doubt he will ensure The Post is an enticing and unmissable read for its subscriber audience,” she adds.

Can’t wait to get started

Hooton says he has been impressed by the growing editorial confidence of The Post since its relaunch, and is looking forward to working with the senior leadership team, including Boucher and Joanna Norris, managing director of masthead publishing.

“Editors need to make difficult and unpopular decisions, withstand pressure, defend journalists, take risks and publish work powerful people dislike,” he says.

“Operating in heated political and business environments my whole working life has provided preparation for this role and I am extremely excited to be joining The Post with its team of excellent journalists and innovative leadership and management.

“Some may see this as a bold appointment, and I’m well aware that it comes with ongoing scrutiny. The Post has a proud history, some of the most disciplined, fair and focused journalists in the country and a very smart strategy to produce and publish the most serious, high quality and fearless journalism in New Zealand. I can’t wait to get started,” says Hooton.

Hooton’s appointment comes with a new role for Luke Malpass, currently the Post’s business, economics and political editor. He moves into the associate editor role, working with Hooton to deliver The Post’s growth strategy and major editorial initiatives. Malpass will also retain a high-level writing portfolio.