JOHNSTON Press has appointed Rankin Armstrong as the new editor of the News Letter.
Rankin has been on the paper’s staff for 14 years, joining as an assistant editor in July 1998 and moving to the role of deputy editor in March 2007.
Currently the News Letter’s acting editor, his 40-year career in journalism includes 17 years as a sub-editor with the Belfast Telegraph and three years as chief sub-editor with the Irish News.
From Armagh city, Rankin started his career as a reporter with the Armagh Guardian, moving on to the Portadown News/Craigavon Times.
In 1997 he was seconded to the University of Ulster, where he was responsible for coordinating the practical journalism module at the launch of the post-graduate Diploma in Newspaper Journalism.
Rankin is married with three grown-up children and lives in the Stranmillis area of Belfast.
He said: “I’m looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
“The News Letter is a highly regarded and trusted brand, with a hard-working staff committed to high standards and delivering a quality product to a loyal readership.
“In print and online we offer an excellent package of news and sport, analysis and comment.
“Now celebrating its 275th year, the paper plays a major part in the fabric of life in Northern Ireland and continues to extend its reach to a growing online audience.”
Jean Long, Managing Director, said: “I am delighted that a journalist of Rankin’s calibre is heading the team and at such an exciting time in the development of the News Letter, not only in print but online and on mobile. The paper is one of the oldest newspapers in the English-speaking world and a strong and valued brand, and I wish Rankin every success in his new role.”
