Paramount has found its ombudsman for CBS News, Kenneth Weinstein, the former president and CEO of the conservative-leaning Hudson Institute.Weinstein will report to Paramount president Jeff Shell, and “will serve as an independent, internal advocate for journalistic integrity and transparency, reviewing concerns raised by employees and viewers, addressing questions about news coverage, and upholding the organization’s longstanding commitment to accuracy and accountability,” the company says.Weinstein will investigate any concerns raised by CBS News employees or outsiders that have complaints, and if he determines it requires action, will bring it to Shell and CBS chief George Cheeks. If the three of them believe it requires further action, the trio will work with CBS News president and executive editor Tom Cibrowski, “who will recommend and implement any necessary action steps.” 4-Currently the Japan Chair at the Hudson Institute, Weinstein also previously chaired the Broadcasting Board of Governors (now the United States Agency for Global Media). The Hudson Institute was founded in 1961 by physicist Herman Kahn and the RAND Corporation.“We look forward to welcoming Ken as our new Ombudsman,” Shell said in a statement. “At a time when trust in media is more important than ever, this new role reinforces our commitment to truth, trust, and accountability. I’ve known him for many years and have great respect for his integrity, sound judgment, and thoughtful approach to complex issues. Ken brings not only a wealth of advisory experience in media and beyond but also a calm, measured perspective that makes him exceptionally well-suited to serve as our Ombudsman.”“I am honored to serve as Ombudsman for CBS News, one of the most respected journalistic institutions in the world,” Weinstein added. “I look forward to supporting the talented team behind its reporting and to stewarding public trust in this critical institution.”Skydance, which acquired Paramount last month, agreed to have an ombudsman at CBS News for at least two years in a deal with the FCC to secure federal approval.
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