Staff at the West Australian are in the same position – waiting, waiting, – following the departure of firebrand Paul Armstrong. Sounds as though they will be waiting for a while yet.

In a teleconference yesterday announcing WAN’s results, chief executive Chris Wharton had this to say:

“this is a critical appointment and as such, the process won’t be rushed”.

“I want to get the best person for the job. Wherever that person comes from is fine. I would consider it a plus if they had West Australian experience, though.”

The company also talked about reducing wages in the wake of  declining advertising and circulation revenue – though executives said there would be no job cuts.

Wharton talked about the need to “re-engage editorially with the community” and using the relationship with Channel Seven. But he also talked about cost cutting.

Read more  here.

Dear All,

Bob Cronin has urged staff who believe they are up to the task to apply for the vacant editor’s position.

I also encourage our people to apply for the job if they think they have got what it takes.

We have engaged some outside help to assist in the recruitment and selection process.

If you want to throw your hat in the ring, in the first instance please send your CV to Company Secretary, Peter Bryant, as soon as possible.

Regards,

Chris Wharton

Chief Executive Officer

West Australian Newspapers Limited