Mitali Mukherjee named Director of Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism

Mitali Mukherjee has been appointed Director of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism (RISJ) at the University of Oxford. She is the first Indian to take on the role, marking a significant milestone for the globally recognised journalism think tank.

Mukherjee, who is currently the Director of Journalist Programs at the Reuters Institute, will assume her new responsibilities on May 15, 2025. 

The appointment comes after the departure of outgoing Director Rasmus Kleis Nielsen, under whose tenure the Institute gained global prominence for its research on digital news, trust in media, and the evolving business of journalism.

With more than two decades of experience in newsrooms and media leadership, Mitali Mukherjee has worked across broadcast and digital platforms. Her career includes key editorial roles at CNBC TV18, NDTV, BBC and The Wire. A Chevening fellow and an award-winning financial journalist, she has covered markets, politics, gender equity, and media innovation.

Her work has consistently focused on empowering underrepresented voices and deepening public understanding of journalism's changing role. At RISJ, she has led international fellowship programs and curated thought leadership around newsroom innovation and press freedom.

Announcing her appointment, Alan Rusbridger, Chair of the Reuters Institute Steering Committee, said, "Mitali brings an impressive combination of journalistic experience, strategic thinking, and global perspective. Her commitment to media freedom and innovation makes her the ideal person to lead the Institute into its next chapter."

Reacting to the announcement, Mukherjee said, "It is an honour to lead the Reuters Institute at such a critical time for journalism globally. We need to keep asking the hard questions, build evidence-based research, and support journalists worldwide to navigate unprecedented challenges."

The Reuters Institute, part of the University of Oxford’s Department of Politics and International Relations, is a globally respected hub for research and dialogue around journalism, with a network spanning over 90 countries. Mukherjee’s appointment signals a strong focus on global inclusivity and forward-looking leadership in a rapidly changing media landscape.