Rashida Jones, Senior Vice President of NBC News and MSNBC, will now take on the role of President of MSNBC and become the first Black female leader of a cable news network.
With news like this, I’m not sure whether to celebrate or to feel disappointed. Celebrate because it’s a wonderful achievement. Feel disappointed because it’s 2020 and how are we still experiencing ‘firsts’ like these? I’ll choose to celebrate because no matter what year it is, making the way up the ranks as a black woman in media is no easy feat.
Related: 10 women of colour making a big impact on TV.
According to NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde, the current MSNBC President — Phil Griffin — plans to leave in early 2021, making way for the new trailblazing executive. Conde has made bold statements on diversity, saying that he’d like the company’s staff to be half women and people of colour.
On Jones’ leadership ability, Conde is confident. “If you’ve worked with Rashida on any of those endeavors, you know that she has an outstanding track-record and she leads with a laser-like focus and grace under pressure. I know she will be an excellent leader for MSNBC,” he stated.
And no, this is not the Rashida Jones from Parks and Recreation and The Office. Just making that clear.
Related: Richest women of colour in Hollywood.
