Journalists and management of Israel's Channel 13 news reached an agreement on Wednesday to remove interim CEO Yulia Shamalov-Berkovich and replace her within two months, Israeli media reported on Wednesday.
Channel 13 journalists opposed her appointment as CEO due to a reported lack of journalistic experience, acting against the company and its reporters, as well as reported offensive attitudes towards women.
Subject to board approval, the news organization will begin the process of appointing a new CEO within two months. In the interim, Eyal de Pau, the company's acting chairman, will serve as acting director, as required by law. Board member Zvi Hefetz will be appointed active director and deputy director general of news without salary to assist in implementing the plan.
Once the Channel 13 board approves the agreement and the CEO replacement, the company’s employees and the journalists' organization will inform the High Court of Justice of the settlement and request the petition against the appointment be deleted.
Matan Hodorov, chairman of the Channel 13 committee, emphasized that the agreement does not specify the next CEO but ensures the CEO will serve as editor-in-chief. He stressed that employees respect the appointed managers and have no intention of managing the company themselves.
He noted the importance of stabilizing the company amid recent departures and emphasized the goal of maintaining the news company's stability. Hodorov acknowledged the legal struggle and the crucial role of the High Court as a turning point.
Journalists, industry insiders commend decision
Elli Gershenkroin, Executive Director of the Israeli Union of Journalists, praised the agreements, noting that they allow for the selection of a worthy CEO who will work with dedicated employees to uphold serious and responsible journalism. He commended the workers' determined stand for the company's future image.
Journalist and TV host Guy Lerer lauded the decision, describing the struggle as inspiring and important for free media in Israel. Maariv journalist Ben Caspit also celebrated the achievement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism amid increasing challenges.