New editor named for The Post and Courier

Mitch Pugh will be the next editor of The Post and Courier, following a nationwide search to fill the top job in the newsroom of South Carolina’s largest newspaper.

The Sioux City (Iowa) Journal, where Pugh currently serves as editor, was named one of “10 That Do It Right” in 2009 by Editor & Publisher, a top journalism industry publication. He is known for his focus on local news and his attention to providing unique content online.

At the Sioux City Journal the paper’s digital-first approach to covering breaking news, weather and other core topics has earned national recognition, and its aggressive social media strategy has become a model in parent company Lee Enterprises and beyond, Post and Courier Publisher P.J. Browning said.

Pugh also led an Associated Press Managing Editors initiative that looked at the best ways for newsrooms to maintain ethical standards and credibility while breaking news on digital platforms.

“I’m really thrilled to have the opportunity to come to Charleston and be a part of what is clearly an experienced, talented news team,” Pugh, 39, said today.

The Sioux City Journal, with roughly half the readership of The Post and Courier, won a National Newspaper Association award in 2012 for best newspaper website, and the same year won a Local Media Association award for newspaper of the year.

“I couldn’t be more pleased that we found someone the caliber of Mitch to lead The Post and Courier newsroom,” said Browning. “I am excited about his passion for our industry and look forward to the great things to come.”

Pugh is expected to start work at The Post and Courier in March. He replaces William E.N. Hawkins, who retired in September after serving as editor and publisher of the paper.