English news channel CNN-News18 has announced a key leadership transition, with Managing Editor Zakka Jacob stepping away from his day-to-day managerial responsibilities after nearly four years at the helm. Jacob will move into a new role as Senior Anchor and Group Foreign Affairs Editor, while continuing to hold the designation of Managing Editor.

According to an internal report issued by the network, the change follows Jacob’s decision to refocus on core journalism after months of deliberation. The channel acknowledged his role in shaping CNN-News18’s editorial identity, crediting him with reinforcing the newsroom’s emphasis on fairness, accuracy and credibility, while steering the channel through a period of consistent market leadership.

In an internal communication, Network18 Chief Content Officer Santosh Menon thanked Jacob for his contribution to the channel’s growth and stability. Menon noted that Jacob’s calm and balanced leadership style played a significant role in defining the channel’s editorial tone and newsroom culture. While stepping back from managerial duties, Jacob will remain a prominent presence on the network, continuing to anchor shows across platforms and contribute to its editorial output.

Taking over the reins as Editorial Affairs Director is senior journalist Rahul Shivshankar, who currently anchors CNN-News18’s flagship 9 pm show, ‘The Hard Facts’. Shivshankar brings extensive newsroom leadership experience and is widely known for his sharp analysis of national and international affairs. In his new role, he will oversee all editorial teams at CNN-News18, including content creation, production and off-platform operations.

A published author and regular columnist, Shivshankar is expected to play a central role in strengthening the channel’s editorial direction amid an increasingly competitive news environment. The network’s management expressed confidence that his leadership will help build on CNN-News18’s existing strengths.

The transition will come into effect on Monday, with both Zakka Jacob and Rahul Shivshankar formally assuming their new responsibilities as the channel enters its next phase of leadership.