Editor’s note: This story first appeared in the Brattleboro Reformer on July 5, 2016.
PITTSFIELD, MASS. — Edward L. Woods has resigned as CEO and regional publisher of New England Newspapers Inc. to pursue other opportunities.
Martin Langeveld, former publisher of The Berkshire Eagle, who currently serves on the board of the NENI, has been named acting publisher.
New England Newspapers publishes the Bennington Banner, Brattleboro Reformer and The Manchester Journal, a weekly, as well as The Eagle in Pittsfield.
Woods’ decision comes following the recent purchase of NENI by a group of four investors with strong ties to the localities it serves.
“This ownership group brings the leadership skills and community relationships that will allow NENI to delivery quality journalism well into the future,” Woods said. “The management team is strong and the owners’ vision is a perfect match for their employees and our communities.”
Hans Morris, board chairman of NENI, expressed his appreciation for Woods’ 11 years of service to the company.
“This is a friendly separation, and we intend to maintain a relationship with Ed,” Morris said. “We wish him the best in all of his endeavors and know he will continue his successful career.”
A nationwide search will be conducted for Woods’ replacement, he said.
“I am looking at several exciting opportunities,” Woods said. “In the meantime, I plan to continue my work on various community boards and organizations, including my role as president of the Bennington Area Chamber of Commerce. I look forward to helping the new owners make a smooth transition.”
Woods joined New England Newspapers in 2005 as publisher of the Bennington Banner and Manchester Journal. In 2008, he was promoted to Vermont Group publisher when he took on the additional responsibilities for the Brattleboro Reformer.
In 2013, he was promoted to regional vice president, with responsibilities over all advertising management for the cluster. In 2014, he was appointed CEO and regional publisher.
Langeveld originally joined The Berkshire Eagle in 1978 as marketing director of UpCountry. He subsequently served as marketing director and then general manager for The Eagle Publishing Co.
Langeveld was named publisher when the newspapers were sold to Denver-based MediaNews Group in 1995. From 2000 to 2006, he was publisher of the North Adams Transcript, and from 2006 to 2008, he was publisher of the Brattleboro Reformer.
Since then he has worked as a marketing consultant in the Brattleboro area and as a consultant, blogger and analyst in the media field. Langeveld advised the new owners of New England Newspapers during the acquisition process, and was named to the board of directors at the time of the purchase on May 1, 2016.