Torstar takes the long view with transition at Metroland

The outcome of an orderly succession planning at the giant Metroland Group division of Torstar Inc. results in Ian Oliver, the publisher of the Hamilton Spectator and executive vice-president of Metroland Media Group stepping into the presidency, succeeding Murray Skinner. According to a company release, Skinner, who worked for Metroland and Torstar for 32 years, steps down effective July 1, 2008. In the meantime, he and Oliver will work together on a transition.

Metroland Media Group dominates the publication of community and daily newspapers in Ontario and particularly in the Golden Horseshoe. Oliver, in addition to his duties with the Spec, heads the Metroland West Group, which includes 3 daily newspapers, The Hamilton Spectator, The Record and Guelph Mercury, more than 15 Community Newspapers, including the Oakville Beaver and Burlington Post; one of Canada's largest shows groups, Premier Consumer Shows; a specialty publication division; a magazine division; and 4 print facilities.

The magazine division includes Forever Young, City Parent, The Car Guide, the Boat Guide, eye weekly, East of the City, Boating Business, Real Estate News, and The Business Times.