Morris Communications names chief information officer

Robert Gilbert

Morris Communications has announced that Robert Gilbert, vice president of audience for Morris Publishing Group, has been promoted to chief information officer (CIO). As CIO, Gilbert will report to CEO William S. Morris IV and be responsible for information management and company-wide strategic planning and deployment of information technology.

"Information technology is advancing at such a rapid pace that it requires a strategic and aggressive approach to transition our company," said Morris. "Bob's wealth of experience in innovation, partnerships and audience make him the ideal person to fill this important role."

Gilbert's extensive career in media includes strategic leadership roles at Knight Ridder and Landmark Communications. He served as CEO and president of Infinet and Great Bridge and led his consulting firm before joining Morris in 2003 as vice president of strategy and innovation. At Morris, he has served in several leadership roles developing innovative, community-based audience and revenue initiatives.

"I can't imagine a more exciting role than working at the intersection of media excellence and technology transformation," said Gilbert. "That's the proving ground for exceptional 21st Century media companies like Morris Communications."

Gilbert is a graduate of the University of Miami and currently serves as the company representative in the Local Media Consortium.

Andrew Young will be assuming a new role as senior director of information technology. He will be responsible for all aspects of technology infrastructure and system operations and will oversee the day-to-day support of all Morris production platforms.