In a notable leadership transition, TIME Magazine announced in April 2023 that Edward Felsenthal would step down as Editor-in-Chief after a six-year tenure marked by ambitious digital expansion and strategic editorial innovations. Felsenthal, who guided the iconic publication through a critical phase of transformation, assumed a new role as Executive Chairman and Contributing Editor, signaling a continued, though reduced, involvement in TIME’s journalistic mission.
Felsenthal’s legacy at TIME includes spearheading the brand’s evolution from a legacy print publication into a modern, multi-platform media organization. During his leadership, TIME significantly grew its global digital audience and launched new franchises, such as the TIME100 Next and TIME Studios, the latter producing documentary content that expanded the magazine’s reach beyond traditional formats. His tenure also oversaw major coverage of pivotal global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. presidential elections, and movements for racial justice.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built at TIME,” Felsenthal said in a statement. “This transition marks the beginning of a new phase in our mission to inform and inspire through trusted journalism.”
Following Felsenthal’s departure from the top editorial role, Sam Jacobs, a longtime member of the TIME editorial team, was appointed Interim Editor-in-Chief. Jacobs had served as Deputy Editor for four years and played an instrumental role in the company’s editorial strategy and operational growth. His appointment reflects a commitment to continuity, with the company emphasizing its dedication to maintaining editorial excellence and broadening its impact in the digital age.
Jacobs has been widely credited with enhancing TIME’s journalistic platforms and leading high-profile editorial projects. Under his guidance, TIME expanded its global events portfolio, such as the TIME100 Summit and other influential convenings that connect leaders across industries. His interim leadership is expected to sustain the momentum established by Felsenthal, particularly as the publication continues to adapt to rapidly changing media consumption habits.
The leadership change arrives at a time when TIME, like many traditional media institutions, faces challenges in monetization, audience engagement, and content distribution. Yet, it also comes amid a resurgence of interest in credible news sources, driven by growing public scrutiny of misinformation and political polarization.
In addition to internal promotions and strategic hires, TIME has increasingly focused on diversifying revenue streams through brand extensions, digital subscriptions, and multimedia ventures. TIME Studios, for instance, has produced award-winning documentaries, contributing not only to the brand’s editorial impact but also to its financial sustainability.
Felsenthal’s move to Executive Chairman allows him to remain engaged with key initiatives, particularly those related to TIME’s editorial mission and business partnerships. The company has indicated that it will conduct a comprehensive search to identify a permanent Editor-in-Chief, with both internal and external candidates under consideration.
TIME’s CEO, Jessica Sibley, praised both leaders during the announcement. “Ed has been a visionary steward of TIME’s legacy and a bold architect of its future. Sam’s deep editorial insight and commitment to TIME’s values make him the ideal leader for this moment,” she said.
As TIME continues its efforts to reach new audiences and reinforce its role in shaping public discourse, the transition underscores its adaptability and long-standing commitment to journalistic integrity. With Jacobs at the editorial helm, at least temporarily, and Felsenthal supporting broader strategic efforts, the publication appears poised to navigate the evolving media landscape with confidence.
