Wan-Ifra, the World Association of News Publishers, has taken on board Ezra Eeman as a strategic advisor for its AI initiatives. In this role, Eeman will leverage his extensive expertise in media innovation to help advance the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence technologies across the news media industry. Alongside his ongoing position as director of Strategy and Innovation at Dutch Public Broadcasting (NPO), he will guide Wan-Ifra’s efforts to empower its members in navigating AI-driven transformation.
With extensive experience in media innovation and strategic foresight, Ezra Eeman will help WAN-IFRA members explore AI opportunities by supporting the creation of AI roadmaps, facilitating forums, and guiding discussions to encourage the integration of AI technologies across the media industry.
Commenting on his new position, Eeman stated, “I’m excited to join this initiative with WAN-IFRA. In today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, mastering the new paradigm of AI is crucial for staying relevant and connected to our audiences. I hope my experience can serve as a bridge between the world of strategy and the world of AI, helping news organizations navigate this transformative technology”.
Eeman has been a driving force in the digital transformation of the media industry for over a decade. His leadership in numerous innovation projects has boosted digital capabilities and audience engagement. With expertise spanning AI applications in content creation, editorial workflows, and newsroom automation, Eeman has established himself as a thought leader in leveraging AI to revolutionize media practices.
Vincent Peyrègne, CEO of Wan-Ifra, commented, “AI, both generative and analytical, is reshaping the news media, and the field of AI is continuously evolving, with new techniques and paradigms emerging regularly. With Ezra’s expertise, Wan-Ifra is excited to assist its members in harnessing AI for innovation and growth, ensuring they remain at the forefront of this rapidly changing environment.”
By combining his strategic insight, innovation experience, and deep understanding of the media industry, Ezra has positioned himself as a respected voice in the application of AI within media organizations, making him an expert in this rapidly evolving field.
AI Adoption in Media
Wan-Ifra announced several initiatives designed to support its members in understanding and implementing AI technologies, while learning from industry best practices.:
AI Community : A dedicated platform for news media executives and content creators to network and share insights on AI in media. Led by Eeman, this community will include a Slack channel, regular webinars featuring expert speakers, and case studies, fostering meaningful collaboration.
AI Forums: Regional and international forums bringing together AI practitioners and thought leaders. Forums have already been successfully held in Bengaluru, Jakarta, Madrid, and Paris, with upcoming events in Frankfurt and Mexico City. These forums aim to serve as annual meeting points for media professionals to exchange ideas and best practices.
Study Tours: Wan-Ifra’s next AI-focused study tour will take place in San Francisco and Silicon Valley from January 27 to 31, 2025, followed by a tour in Bengaluru on February 20 and 21, 2025. These tours will provide first-hand exposure to cutting-edge AI technologies.
AI Academy: A new learning platform offering self-paced online modules focused on newsroom AI applications. This platform equips media professionals with practical AI skills to thrive in an AI-driven future.
These initiatives complement Wan-Ifra’s ongoing projects:
Newsroom AI Catalyst Accelerator: A program training 128 newsrooms across Europe, APAC, Latin America, and South Asia in collaboration with OpenAI. The accelerator helps newsrooms build AI prototypes and scale AI solutions.
Data Science Expert Group: An international community of over 400 data analysts, scientists, and engineers dedicated to providing insights, tools, and feedback aligned with newsroom priorities to grow audiences, deepen engagement, and optimize revenues.
Advisory board driving strategic AI initiatives
To further strengthen its AI initiatives, Wan-Ifra has established an Advisory Board chaired by Ezra Eeman, comprising leading AI experts and media professionals from prominent organizations. Representing a wealth of industry expertise, the board includes:
Jane Barrett, Reuters (United Kingdom)
Fergus Bell, Fathm (United Kingdom)
Jessica Davis, Gannett Media | USA TODAY (United States)
David Dieudonné, Ouest-France (France)
José Gutiérrez Cuellar, PRISA (Spain)
Fabian Heckenberger, Süddeutsche Zeitung (Germany)
Kasper Lindskow, JP/Politikens Media Group (Denmark)
Juan Carlos Lopez Calvet, Schibsted Media (Norway)
Ingrid Verschuren, Dow Jones (Spain)
This board provides strategic insights and guidance to shape Wan-Ifra’s AI roadmap, addressing key challenges and driving impactful AI adoption across the media industry.
Through these program and Eeman’s leadership, Wan-Ifra aims to empower media professionals to navigate AI’s transformative possibilities.
