Another top US editor leaves Reuters

Global editor-at-large James Gaines (photo) became the latest senior editor to leave Reuters, saying he took “no great pleasure in leaving”.

Gaines, 67, joined in April 2011 as editor, ethics, standards and innovation based in New York. After five months he became editor, Americas, followed by three years as editor in charge, global photography.

“I will be leaving Reuters at the end of the year. I have a book to finish, there are interesting jobs in the offing, and, though I take no great pleasure in leaving, the time is right," he told colleagues in a note.

“I haven’t been here long enough for a big goodbye note, but I have been here long enough to be sorry I won’t be working with many of you again. I’ve enjoyed my time here a great deal, I’ve learned a lot, and I leave you with my very best wishes as you keep on keeping the world informed.” 

Gaines is one of several senior US editors hired by Reuters in recent years who have departed after relatively short spells at the organisation.

He is the author of four works of narrative history. His previous jobs included managing editor of Time, Life, and People magazines and corporate editor of Time Inc. ■