Martin Ivens to become TLS editor as Stig Abell departs

Former Sunday Times editor Martin Ivens has been named the new editor of the Times Literary Supplement, with Stig Abell (pictured) standing down from the role to pursue a career in radio. 

Abell is to join the Times radio and podcast division Wireless as executive director. 

During his four years at the helm of TLS, Abell launched imprint TLS Books and a weekly podcast and redesigned the publication for print and online. He will continue to manage the imprint, and remain a columnist for the Sunday Times. 

He said: “To have been custodian of a thing as precious as the TLS for four years, and to have been involved in developing its potential in print, online, podcast and book form has been a real privilege. I will miss everyone who works there terribly, but leave full of confidence that they will continue to do a great job. Meanwhile, I get to concentrate my energies on radio, which is a huge and invigorating challenge.”

Abell has worked on the Times radio station since last year, and in April was named co-host of its breakfast show, alongside Aasmah Mir. In his new role, he will report to Wireless c.e.o. Scott Taunton and work with programme directors, advising on editorial tone of voice.

Journalist Ivens will join the TLS from 29th June. He was previously the editor of the Sunday Times for seven years. He said: “I’m delighted to have been invited to edit the Times Literary Supplement. Without a doubt it is peerless in its role leading the nation’s cultural debate and I look forward to working with the team—and the universe of contributors—to build on the excellent work Stig has done.”