The Reader Institute for Community Journalism (RICJ) in Chicago has announced that Amber Nettles will be taking on the role of publisher starting January 1, 2025. Solomon Lieberman, the current CEO and Publisher, will remain as the CEO of the organization.
Lieberman expressed his admiration for Nettles, citing her energy and dedication to the organization since she joined in February 2023. He emphasized her expertise and passion for impactful journalism and connecting with audiences as valuable assets in her new position as publisher.
Nettles, who started at the Chicago Reader as the sales director in July 2020, has steadily climbed the ranks within the organization. She was promoted to Vice President of Sales and Business Development in November 2021, Senior Vice President of Growth and Strategy in September 2022, and Associate Publisher in September 2023.
During her tenure at the Reader, Nettles has played a crucial role in expanding product lines, increasing revenue, and implementing various improvements in digital, marketing, and sales processes. As associate publisher, she has been involved in projects related to editorial, circulation, research, and operations.
Salem Collo-Julin, the Reader’s editor in chief, commended Nettles for her contributions and expressed excitement about their continued partnership in her new role. He highlighted her ability to challenge the organization to think critically and creatively about its impact on the city.
Originally from Hampton, Virginia, Nettles has a background in copy editing and social media strategy, having worked at the Daily Press and Entercom Communications before joining the Reader. She also has experience working at the Center for Sales Strategy and the Chicago Tribune.
In addition to her role at the Reader, Nettles serves as the Revenue Chair on the Board of Directors for the Association of Alternative Newsmedia. She resides in Lakeview with her two rescue cats, Phantom and Picasso.
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