Paul Runnestrand

Paul Runnestrand is the Executive Editor of The Florida Times-Union in Jacksonville, Florida.13 He was appointed to this position in March 2023, succeeding Mary Kelli Palka.1 Runnestrand, 35, has been with the Times-Union since 2015, previously serving as news editor and managing editor.12

As Executive Editor, Runnestrand oversees the daily production of the Florida Times-Union, working with local reporters and editors to create news products for both print and digital platforms.2 He is responsible for assigning and editing stories, ensuring timely digital reports, and balancing breaking news with longer-term planning.2

Runnestrand is a Florida native and graduate of the University of Florida, where he earned a B.S. in Journalism.2 His career at the Times-Union has spanned two ownership changes, staff reductions, and the newspaper's relocation from its Riverside Avenue campus to the Wells Fargo Center.1

Throughout his tenure, Runnestrand has been involved in various aspects of the newspaper's operations, including:

1. Overseeing the transition to outsourced news design
2. Adapting to earlier deadlines due to changes in printing facilities
3. Identifying ways to reduce newsprint costs while maintaining reader value
4. Training colleagues on new content management systems
5. Participating in redesigns of both the printed paper and website2

Runnestrand is committed to the Times-Union's mission of being a community watchdog and holding people in power accountable.1 He lives on Jacksonville's Southside with his wife, Allie.1