CNN announced that former NBC News executive and Newsweek editor Mark Whitaker has been enlisted by CNN Worldwide as executive vice president and managing editor for the network.

In this newly created position, Whitaker will lead editorial coverage across CNN’s multiple platforms and influence the overall approach, tone and direction of CNN’s reporting, the company said. Whitaker will report directly to Jim Walton, president of CNN Worldwide, and will begin his new job Feb. 14, 2011, working out of the New York office.

In a statement, Walton said, "Mark is a distinguished journalist and news executive who is experienced in leading large enterprises, and I am pleased that he will help direct our long-term editorial approach and strategy.”