Dao Nguyen Joins WAN-IFRA Supervisory and Executive Boards

Dao Nguyen has been elected to the Supervisory Board and Executive Board of the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). Nguyen, who joined The New York Times in 2025, fills an existing vacancy on the Executive Board to provide expertise in data analytics, generative AI, and digital product development.

WAN-IFRA is a global network representing more than 20,000 publications across 120 countries through 80 national association members. The organization holds formal representative status at the Council of Europe, UNESCO, and the United Nations, focusing on the protection of independent media and the rights of journalists.

Nguyen was first elected to the Supervisory Board by the association’s members before being selected by that board to join the Executive Board. Her appointment follows more than 30 years of experience in digital media leadership and audience growth.

Professional Background in Digital Media and AI

Before her 2025 appointment at The New York Times, Nguyen spent more than 11 years at BuzzFeed. She most recently served as Publisher and Chief Product & Technology Officer, where she managed machine learning, analytics, engineering, and product functions. In that role, she oversaw teams of up to 450 people across eight countries for brands including Complex, HuffPost, Tasty, and BuzzFeed.

Nguyen’s previous experience includes serving as the CEO of Le Monde Interactif, the publisher of lemonde.fr, and holding senior product positions at Dow Jones. She also currently serves on the board of the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF).

At The New York Times, Nguyen leads the development of digital advertising products. WAN-IFRA CEO Stig Ørskov stated that this specific area of focus is of critical importance to the future of news publishing.

“Dao combines deep technical expertise with an exceptional understanding of how product development, data, AI and digital advertising can support audience growth and sustainable journalism,” said Stig Ørskov, Chief Executive Officer of WAN-IFRA. “In her current role at The New York Times, she leads the development of digital advertising products—an area of critical importance to the future of news publishing. Her leadership experience at some of the world’s most influential news and digital media organisations will bring an enormously valuable perspective to our Boards. Her track record of using technology and generative AI to strengthen journalism rather than replace it will also benefit WAN-IFRA’s members as they navigate this period of profound transformation.” Stig Ørskov, Chief Executive Officer of WAN-IFRA

Strategic Goals for Global News Publishers

The appointment comes as global news organizations face a period of digital transformation. Nguyen indicated that publishers are currently working to determine how to use AI and data to maintain sustainable journalism and serve their audiences.

I’m honored to join WAN-IFRA’s Supervisory and Executive Boards. Publishers everywhere are grappling with how to harness data, product and AI to serve their audiences and sustain their journalism. I look forward to contributing to that conversation and to supporting WAN-IFRA’s members as they navigate this moment of transformation. Dao Nguyen

According to WAN-IFRA, the organization’s broader mission is to provide its members with the necessary services and expertise to innovate in a digital environment while performing their role in society.

Media inquiries regarding the appointment are being handled by Elena Perotti, the Executive Director of Public Affairs and Media Policy for WAN-IFRA.