Boston Phoenix Editor Bill Jensen is leaving the alternative news weekly to take a job directing the web operations of the New Times chain of alternative papers, which publishes -- among others -- the Village Voice and the LA Weekly.New Times is expected to make the announcement later today.
It’s unclear where the new, consolidated New Times online operation will be headquartered, but Denver and Phoenix are said the be in the running.
“It’s always a disappointment to lose a solid talent," said Peter Kadzis, Executive Editor of the Phoenix Media/Communications Group, which publishes the Phoenix in Boston, Portland, and Providence and operates the thephoenix.com Web site.
“We’re celebrating our 40th anniversary in a few weeks. We have tremendous depth of talent. And we are immediately beginning a search for a new editor for the Boston Phoenix," Kadzis said.
Jensen was named Editor of the Phoenix as part of a general corporate-wide re-organization intended to reflect the operational strategies of Brad Mindich, the son of Phoenix founder Stephen Mindich.
Brad Mindich will become President of the PMCG this January when long time president Barry Morris retires.
Earlier this year Jensen was offered -- and declined -- the position of Voice Editor.
“Like Vito Corleone, Mike Lacey must have made Bill an offer he couldn’t refuse,” Kadzis said.
