Mark Zappala named as Times' new publisher

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Mark Zappala,, publisher of the Gloucester Daily Times and Cape Ann Magazine. Ken Yuszkus

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September 17, 2011

Mark Zappala named as Times' new publisher

By Times Staff The Gloucester Daily Times Sat Sep 17, 2011, 05:41 PM EDT

GLOUCESTER — Veteran newspaper executive Mark Zappala has been named publisher of the Gloucester Daily Times.

Zappala, 45, has worked for the Times and its sister publications since 2002, most recently as vice president of sales and marketing.

In his new role as publisher, Zappala will be responsible for all operations at the Times, including the newsroom and editorial content, advertising, circulation, finance, marketing and customer service.

"The Times has a very long tradition of publishing an outstanding community newspaper for Cape Ann," Zappala said. "I am looking forward to immersing myself in the communities and continuing to provide quality local news for the residents of Gloucester, Rockport, Essex and Manchester-by-the-Sea."

In his role as publisher, Zappala will also oversee publication of Cape Ann Magazine, which is produced each quarter.

Zappala's promotion was announced Friday by Henry Bird, senior vice president and division manager for Community Newspaper Holdings Inc., the corporate owner of the Times.

"We are thrilled to have Mark Zappala in this important leadership role," Bird said. "Readers of the Gloucester Daily Times are exactly the type of readers we value as a community newspaper company — smart, loyal, passionate about their news. Mark will ensure we continue to publish the news that readers want and deserve."

Bird commended previous Times publisher Al Getler for his work in the Cape Ann community, noting he had capably served dual roles for the past four years as publisher of The Eagle-Tribune as well as the Gloucester Daily Times.

Zappala's promotion will allow Getler to focus solely on The Eagle-Tribune newspaper, based in North Andover, which publishes seven days per week.

"Strong local leadership is critical for a community newspaper," Bird said.

Zappala began his career with local newspapers in 1997 as a classified advertising manager with The Derry News in New Hampshire. Since that time, he was promoted through the ranks of The Eagle-Tribune Publishing Co., now known as North of Boston Media Group.

"It's an honor to be named publisher of the Times," Zappala said. "I am looking forward to meeting as many people as I can — business and civic leaders, community activists, longtime readers and advertisers. I am big on tradition, and I understand the importance of having a trusted, vibrant daily newspaper on Cape Ann.

"I think we're a terrific newspaper, but I'm also open to new ideas and suggestions for improvement," he said. "I welcome folks to call me, or stop in the office to say hello."

Mark Zappala may be reached at 978-283-7000 x3466, or mzappala@gloucestertimes.com.