Renowned Indian journalist Mitali Mukherjee has been appointed the new Director of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism (RISJ), effective immediately. The announcement follows an open selection process that concluded in late March, marking a significant moment for one of the world’s leading institutions in journalism research and training.
Mukherjee, a highly respected figure across print, television, and digital media, has been serving as Acting Director since October 2024, following the departure of Rasmus Kleis Nielsen. Since joining the Institute in September 2022 as Head of Journalist Programmes, she has played a pivotal role in expanding its global influence.
During her tenure, Mukherjee has overseen the growth of the flagship Fellowship Programme, bringing in new sponsors and strengthening international collaboration. She also secured vital funding for the Oxford Climate Journalism Network, an initiative that has empowered hundreds of journalists globally to improve the depth, accuracy, and impact of climate coverage across platforms.
In her new role, Mukherjee will work closely with the Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Oxford, the Thomson Reuters Foundation, and media industry partners to further the Institute’s global mission.
Reacting to her appointment, Mukherjee said, “I am honoured to take on this role and to be leading an exceptional team. Our mission is to explore the future of journalism worldwide, and I am looking forward to working with our partners to build on our achievements. In a time of unpredictability across the world, we are, and will remain, international in our reach and impact.”
Her appointment is seen as a strong signal of the Institute’s commitment to fostering diverse, forward-looking leadership at a time when journalism faces rapid technological and societal shifts.
MediaBites extends heartfelt congratulations to Mitali Mukherjee on her appointment as Director of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism.
We wish her all the good luck in this prestigious role and pray for her continued success and a bright future ahead. Her leadership and dedication to the future of journalism are truly inspiring.
