The Guardian has announced the appointment of Tami Hoffman as its new Director of Public Policy. Hoffman, a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in broadcast news and policy roles, will join the British news organization in March from ITN, where she currently serves as Director of News Distribution and Commercial Innovation.
In her new role, Hoffman will be responsible for guiding the Guardian’s global approach to critical issues at the intersection of journalism and technology. Chief among these will be artificial intelligence, an area in which Hoffman has established herself as a leading expert and strategist during her tenure at ITN.
Shaping the Guardian’s AI Policy
As a member of the Guardian’s internal AI Council, Hoffman will be tasked with assessing the risks and potential benefits of AI technologies for the news industry. She will work closely with the Guardian’s editorial and commercial teams to develop policies and best practices around the use of AI in journalism, while also engaging with external stakeholders such as policymakers, regulators, and tech platforms.
It is a high stakes moment for the news industry – and as a long term reader and supporter of the Guardian I hope to bring energy and insight to this vital role.
Tami Hoffman
Hoffman’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for the media industry, as news organizations grapple with the transformative impact of AI on everything from content creation and distribution to audience engagement and business models. Her expertise in this area will be invaluable as the Guardian seeks to navigate these challenges and opportunities in a way that aligns with its core values and editorial mission.
Tackling Misinformation and Other Threats
In addition to her focus on AI, Hoffman will also lead the Guardian’s broader public policy strategy, with a particular emphasis on combating misinformation and defending against strategic lawsuits that aim to silence public interest journalism. She will work in coordination with the Guardian’s regional teams to develop and implement policies that protect the outlet’s reporting and defend press freedom around the world.
Hoffman’s experience in both editorial and commercial roles at ITN, Sky News, and PA Media has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complex dynamics shaping the modern news landscape. As the Guardian continues to expand its global reach and influence, her insights and leadership will be critical in helping the organization navigate an increasingly challenging policy environment.
A Strategic Hire for the Guardian’s Global Ambitions
Hoffman’s appointment is the latest in a series of strategic moves by the Guardian as it seeks to bolster its position as a leading global news brand. In recent years, the outlet has launched new editions in the US, Australia, and Europe, while also investing heavily in its digital platforms and subscriber base.
As the Guardian’s new Director of Public Policy, Hoffman will play a key role in shaping the organization’s strategy and direction during this period of rapid growth and transformation. Her expertise in AI, misinformation, and other cutting-edge policy issues will be essential as the Guardian looks to maintain its reputation for high-quality, independent journalism in an increasingly complex and fast-moving media landscape.
Tami understands both the commercial and editorial priorities for news, which will be crucial as the Guardian navigates its way through challenges like AI and misinformation.
Amber de Botton, Chief Communications Officer, Guardian News & Media
With Hoffman at the helm of its public policy team, the Guardian is well-positioned to continue its legacy of fearless reporting and agenda-setting journalism, even as it adapts to the rapidly evolving technological and political landscape of the 21st century. Her appointment sends a strong signal that the Guardian is committed to staying at the forefront of the global conversation around the future of news and the role of technology in shaping our information ecosystem.
As Hoffman prepares to take on this new challenge, all eyes will be on the Guardian to see how it navigates the complex policy challenges ahead and charts a course for the future of journalism in the age of AI and misinformation. With her unique blend of expertise, vision, and leadership, Hoffman is poised to make a significant impact in this crucial role, not just for the Guardian but for the news industry as a whole.
