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Memo: Toronto Star Executive Editor Paul Woods retiring

The following memo was sent to Toronto Star staff on October 19, 2016, from Michael Cooke, editor. Paul Woods has advised me that he will be leaving his post as Executive Editor at the end of the year. This is consistent with the two-year commitment he made when we seduced him out of semi-retirement in…

The following memo was sent to Toronto Star staff on October 19, 2016, from Michael Cooke, editor.

Paul Woods has advised me that he will be leaving his post as Executive Editor at the end of the year.

This is consistent with the two-year commitment he made when we seduced him out of semi-retirement in September of 2014.

I asked Paul to stay longer … but have reluctantly accepted his decision. In his time at the Star, Paul has provided valuable guidance and support to managers and staff throughout the newsroom. He led the hiring effort for Star Touch, and with dignity and grace he oversaw the VSP and the SRP.

Despite directing his energy into One Yonge, Paul recently managed to publish his second book, Beads and Sequins: The Lewiscraft Story. Check it out. It’s a good untold Canadian story.

After he leaves The Star, Paul plans to pursue other book projects, strive to become an ace ukulele player, get better (much better we hope) with his trombone, and spend lots of quality time with a grandchild due to come into our world early next year.

I am happy to say Paul will remain available for advice and assistance with newsroom operations.

On a housekeeping matter, Paul has offered his office to David Skok, who starts his new role with us in a couple of weeks. Paul will work out of the office at the northwest corner of the newsroom for the remainder of his time here. I know you will join me in wishing him well.

H.G. Watson was J-Source's managing editor from 2015 to 2018. She is a journalist based in Toronto. You can learn more about her at hgwatson.com.