Eric Johnston

Eric’s career in journalism began as a part-time sports photographer while still in high school, which then extended through and after earning his degree in Mass Communications and Journalism at CSU Fresno. Eric saw the coming digital transformation in the mid-90’s and pivoted his focus to the burgeoning online space. 

As a self-taught web designer and engineer, he worked for the next 15 years to build audience, revenue and consumer adoption of the still-growing digital news environment. In 2009 Eric was named Publisher and President of The Modesto Bee and The Merced Sun-Star, McClatchy Company publications in California’s Central Valley. Eric was the first Publisher in the 150-year history of the company to come from digital operations; during his tenure the publications leaned into digital audience and revenue growth – an emphasis that continues today.

In 2014 Eric joined the Seattle-based Pioneer News Group as Chief Operating Officer, responsible for more than 24 publications and 500 employees across five northwest states. He was instrumental in leading a variety of projects for the company including overall improvements to digital platforms, audience and sales efforts, optimization of key functions such as news page design, customer service and ad design and fostering a culture of inclusivity, collaboration and diversity.

Eric joined Sonoma Media investments in late 2022.  As a passionate and dedicated champion for the preservation of community publishers and journalism, Eric currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the California Press Foundation and lives in Sonoma County.