Name: Richard WitheyJob title: Global director - interactive media, Independent News & Media Group
How long have you been in this role? I've been with the group for four years and was made global director last year.
What does it entail? Running the strategy and development for the UK group and co-ordinating global projects for subsidiaries in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Ireland.
What inspires you to come to work each day? I really enjoy working in the media - it's always changing and exciting, and full of challenges. You never know what new ideas will come up next!
How did you enter the industry? I entered the industry from the information side. I had worked for News International for 12 years specialising in databases and information management.
Any top tips for new journalists? Even if you want to work in digital media, make sure you get experience of print journalism too. You really need to understand where your colleagues in print journalism will be coming from so you can bridge the gap between traditional media and new media.
How has journalism changed since you started? Since I started at News International the input and output of the Internet has drastically changed how journalists operate, both in terms of research and for publishing.
Do you still buy newspapers? Yes - and I particularly enjoy them at the weekends!
Will new media overtake traditional media? New media couldn't totally replace traditional media, but electronic delivery will become more and more important both for commerce and for the consumer. Smart phones will, I predict, particularly change news delivery.
Which web sites do you use the most? The Guardian and the BBC, obviously, although I do think the BBC site costs too much to produce...
What can web journalism achieve that print journalism can't? It reaches parts that print can't reach! Interaction with the reader and instantaneous feedback are huge advantages. The feedback from the Independent Portfolio so far has been very positive and the subscription service has had a good response, but more people need to understand that good content has to be paid for somewhere along the line.
What would make online journalism even better? To tackle re-purposing - which everyone is guilty of - and to secure proper investment within the media industry. The limited income stream from online media has deterred investors, but it must happen. It will encourage a whole new generation of journalism.
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