Jennifer Holmes named BDN’s next president

By Annie Rupertus, Bangor Daily News Staff

A longtime employee of the Bangor Daily News will take over as the newspaper’s president, chief operating officer and treasurer on Sept. 1.

Jennifer Holmes has been with the newspaper for 31 years and currently serves as vice president and treasurer. 

“I’m excited to step into this position and lead an organization with such a rich legacy and vital mission,” Holmes said.

Holmes succeeds Todd Benoit, who will retire from his role as president and COO at the end of August after 37 years with the organization and 10 years in those positions. 

Holmes started in the paper’s sales department before going on to lead the human resources team and then entering her current role, which involves overseeing people operations, finance, IT and development.

“What makes the BDN special is its people — a dedicated, talented staff who care deeply about our readers and our communities,” Holmes said. “Everything we accomplish is because of their hard work and commitment, and I’m eager to build on that foundation together.”

Benoit started on the paper’s editorial team before transitioning to work on the business side later in his career.

“I didn’t imagine when I started in newspapers that I would have so much fun or meet so many wonderful people, both on staff and among the countless folks I got to interview back when I was in the newsroom. I am especially grateful to them for their patience and generosity with their time,” Benoit said. 

“I know I am leaving the BDN in very good hands with Jennifer Holmes leading the company,” he added.

Publisher Rick Warren said he is confident in the future of the newspaper under Holmes’ leadership.

“I am grateful to Todd for his vision and leadership, which have guided us through many challenging times, and I am confident that Jennifer will continue to move the organization forward as we face the challenges ahead,” Warren said.

Holmes also commended Benoit’s leadership and said she is excited to lead the paper. 

“I truly appreciate Rick Warren’s support and confidence as I begin this new chapter,” she said. “I’m also grateful to Todd Benoit for his strong leadership and the thoughtful way he guided the BDN — his work has positioned us well for what’s next.”