Naedine Hazell’s status as “interim” editor at the Courant has ended, and she is now the real deal, despite the ridiculous and redundant title Print Platform Manager/Editor.

It’s a smart move by the new management, though I hope Naedine has a good helmet and a set of shin guards. People in that position tend to be knocked around, I hear.

Also, Danny Sanchez, the online wiz from Florida who visited earlier this year, has signed on permanently to head the “digital platform.” I met him in Chicago during a Tribune database session, and found him to be a very talented and likeable guy. I don’t know anything about his management and journalistic skills, but reckon they will become evident soon enough in his work.

Here’s Courant Content Manager Jeff Levine’s official announcement:

I’m very excited to announce two key newsroom leadership appointments as we work to build the newsroom of the future.

First off, we’re going to drop the “interim” from Naedine Hazell’s title (Print Platform Manager/Editor). In the past couple of months, Naedine has done a terrific job helping me to restructure the newsroom to better focus on the local and actionable content our audiences crave and to be well positioned for the multi-platform challenges that lie ahead. I believe she has a unique ability to understand both The Courant’s rich past and where we need to be heading as we rapidly move forward.  Her news judgment, energy and focus will be critical to our success.

Secondly, Danny Sanchez will be joining us in the beginning of August to become the Digital Platform Manager for all Courant and WTIC/WTXX interactive products. Many of you met Danny when he was here helping us out earlier in the year.  I worked with Danny in Florida and was very impressed with his understanding of the digital world, including how we can best evolve in order to meet the fast changing ways our audiences use technology and seek out information.  Danny brings to Hartford a strong interactive perspective and will be a valuable addition to our team. 

Please join Rich and me in congratulating Naedine and Danny on their new roles.  Their appointments mark a key milestone in our efforts to create a new business model that will allow us to continue to thrive and to meet the information needs of Connecticut.