Full Breakdown
NBC News Chief Digital Officer Chris Berend Leaves
6/26/2026, 12:54:02 PM
Chief Digital Officer Announces Exit
On Thursday, Chris Berend, NBC News’ Chief Digital Officer, announced he will leave NBCUniversal, effective July 3. Kyri Sarantakos, executive vice president of technology for NBC News Group, will assume his duties on an interim basis.
Digital Expansion Under Berend
Berend joined NBC News in 2019 from CNN, succeeding Nick Ascheim. He oversaw the launch of NBC News Now, expanded the “Today” brand into a curated digital platform, and guided a streaming outlet for “Dateline.” He also directed efforts in subscriptions, commerce, and generative-AI integration.
Profiles of Chris Berend and Kyri Sarantakos
Chris Berend, a digital-media executive with prior roles at CNN, Bloomberg Media, ESPN and Esquire, helped broaden NBC News’ digital footprint. Kyri Sarantakos, who joined NBCUniversal in July 2017 after serving as vice president of engineering at Electric Objects, now leads digital product teams across NBC News, Telemundo and the “Today” franchise. He directed the launch of NBC News Now and will oversee the digital portfolio during the transition.
Milestones Highlighted in Berend’s Memo
Berend’s memo cited achievements such as best-in-class live election coverage, continuous social-video innovation, a leading streaming news and lifestyle portfolio, and new “Today” experiences that add audience value. NBC News has been named the leading digital news organization in America for five consecutive years.
Strategic Implications of the Leadership Change
The transition occurs as NBC News continues investing in streaming, subscription, commerce and generative-AI projects that Berend helped shape. Sustaining progress on these initiatives is vital for reaching audiences across platforms.
Berend’s Memo and Transition Details
Berend’s memo thanked staff for the organization’s growth and affirmed NBC News’ status as the leading digital news outlet in the United States. It also noted Sarantakos will assume Berend’s duties on an interim basis starting July 3, ensuring continuity across NBC News, Telemundo and the “Today” brand.
Direct Remarks from Chris Berend
- “We’re connecting with more people, in more ways, with more trusted expertise than ever.” — Chris Berend, NBC News
- “I’m leaving NBCUniversal soon to pursue my passions outside of news. More to come on where I’m headed in the coming weeks.” — Chris Berend, NBC News
- “I leave with deep gratitude. Thanks to you, the last seven years have brought remarkable growth: best-in-class live election experiences, constant social video innovation, the leading streaming news and lifestyle portfolio, and an array of ‘Today’ experiences that bring real value to audience’s lives.” — Chris Berend, NBC News
- “You truly are the leading digital news organization in America (five years running!). And I feel privileged to have been a small part of it.” — Chris Berend, NBC News
Interim Leadership and Future Updates
Kyri Sarantakos will lead NBC News’ digital operations on an interim basis from July 3. NBC News said further details about Berend’s next steps will be released in the coming weeks.
