David Westin

NEW YORK (BNO NEWS) — ABC News President David Westin on Monday night announced that he will be stepping down after more than 13 years at the helm of the network news operation

Westin explained that he would remain as ABC News’ leader until the end of the year as he is seeking to explore other professional options.

“I’ve always admired those few who know when it’s time to move on. This is the right time for me,” Westin said. “Over the last nine months, we’ve put in place new anchors on all of our programs. At the same time, we went through a very difficult transformation made necessary by changes in our business and its economics.”

Westin went on to explain that he would not be able to efficiently fulfill his responsibilities as president of ABC News and explore other challenges.

“I’m announcing my decision now so that I can pursue those possibilities, something I couldn’t do in fairness to all of you until I’d told you of my plans to step down. I have agreed to remain your leader through the end of the year to ensure [...] an orderly transition.”

The network described Westin, the longest-serving head of a broadcast network news division, as a “tireless advocate for ABC” who guided the group through difficult times, reinventing their news organization.

ABC Television Group president Anne Sweeney said Westin’s “desire to pursue other professional endeavors is understandable and commendable.”