Caro Kriel: A Powerful Journey of a Global Media Leader and Influential CEO

Among the most respected names in modern journalism and media leadership, Caro Kriel stands out as a remarkable figure whose influence extends across continents. With more than two decades of experience in global newsrooms, international reporting, digital transformation, and executive leadership, she has become a leading voice in independent media, ethical information, and newsroom innovation. As the Chief Executive of the Thomson Foundation, Caro Kriel leads one of the world’s most respected media development organisations, supporting journalists in over 100 countries. Her story is one of resilience, professionalism, and a deep commitment to press freedom.

Early Life and Educational Background

Born in August 1970, Caro Kriel is 55 years old as of 2025. She holds dual nationality—British and South African—reflecting her global outlook and extensive international experience. Her early years in South Africa laid the foundation for a career devoted to journalism, public communication, and ethical information.

Caro Kriel Education and Academic Excellence

Caro Kriel graduated from the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa, where she earned Bachelor’s and Honours degrees in Journalism between 1989 and 1992. Her academic background prepared her for the fast-paced and demanding world of news reporting. She later continued her executive and analytical development as a Sulzberger Fellow at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, an elite programme dedicated to leadership in media innovation.

These academic achievements reflect her commitment not only to journalism but also to organisational strategy, media ethics, and global news leadership.

Career Beginnings: Journalism in South Africa

She began her journalism career in the mid-1990s at AP Television (APTV) as an Assistant Producer based in Johannesburg. She covered news across Southern Africa, gaining essential on-the-ground experience in some of the region’s most significant stories. Her early assignments shaped her understanding of world affairs and exposed her to the challenges facing frontline journalists.

Her role soon expanded, reflecting her exceptional talent, strong editorial judgement, and dedication to accuracy.

Rising Through the Ranks: Caro Kriel at the Associated Press

Caro Kriel’s Growth as a Senior Editor

Between 1998 and 2018, She built a highly distinguished career within the Associated Press (AP), one of the world’s largest and most trusted international news organisations. Her roles included:

• Script Producer

• Deputy Regional Editor

• Europe Editor

• Managing Editor of Newsgathering

• Deputy Director of News

• Russia News Director

• Europe News Director

During these years, she managed vast teams of journalists across Europe, Russia, and the CIS region. She led reporting on major global stories, including:

• The Boxing Day Tsunami

• Death of Pope John Paul II

• Second Iraq War

• 2014 Ukraine conflict

• Annexation of Crimea

Her leadership ensured accurate, safe, and responsible coverage during some of the world’s most dangerous and fast-changing events. She also oversaw large budgets, governance responsibilities, and staff development, demonstrating exceptional management capabilities.

Caro Kriel at Sky News: Leading International Coverage

In 2018, Caro Kriel joined Sky News as the Head of International News. She oversaw global teams across multiple continents, leading coverage of major stories and breaking news events. Under her leadership, Sky News won significant awards, including:

• BAFTA 2020 for Hong Kong pro-democracy protest coverage

• BAFTA 2021 for the documentary “Inside Idlib”

Her work at Sky News earned her widespread recognition as a leader who can guide teams through complex and high-pressure global events while maintaining integrity and editorial excellence.

CNN: Director of Coverage for EMEA

Between 2020 and 2021, Caro Kriel served as Director of Coverage for EMEA at CNN, where she supervised international news gathering for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Her responsibilities included breaking news management, digital reporting strategies, and maintaining high standards of accuracy across television and online platforms.

This role further strengthened her reputation as one of the most capable and experienced global newsroom leaders.

Caro Kriel as Chief Executive of the Thomson Foundation

Since June 2021, Caro Kriel has been the Chief Executive of the Thomson Foundation, a globally respected organisation that supports independent media in some of the world’s most challenging environments. The foundation works across more than 100 countries, helping journalists navigate threats, build skills, and strengthen trusted information ecosystems.

Caro Kriel’s Responsibilities as CEO

As Chief Executive, she oversees:

• International operations in London and Berlin

• Multi-million-pound budgets

• Strategic planning and governance

• Journalist safety and risk management

• Digital transformation and adoption of AI tools

• Combating misinformation and strengthening ethical journalism

Her leadership is helping shape the future of independent media and promoting press freedom worldwide.

Non-Executive Roles: Supporting Global Causes

Caro Kriel is deeply committed to social justice, women’s rights, and media accountability. She holds two significant Non Executive Director (NED) positions:

NED at Rukhshana Media

A digital news organisation giving voice to women and girls living under Taliban rule in Afghanistan. Her role supports one of the world’s most vital and courageous journalism projects.

NED at Impress

The UK’s independent press regulator dedicated to raising standards in journalism, accountability, and public trust.

These roles highlight her ethical commitment and global influence beyond newsroom leadership.

Caro Kriel Age and Personal Life

Born in August 1970, Caro Kriel is 55 years old as of 2025. Her age and achievements reflect a lifetime dedicated to journalism, leadership, and international media development.

Caro Kriel Husband: Who Is She Married To?

Caro Kriel is married to Daniel Sandford, a well-known UK/Home Affairs Correspondent for BBC News. He is a BAFTA-nominated journalist with decades of experience covering crime, policing, terrorism, immigration, and major court cases in the United Kingdom.

Daniel Sandford Wife: Caro Kriel

Caro Kriel is widely recognised as the wife of Daniel Sandford, and their relationship is often referenced in public spaces. Daniel Sandford has openly expressed pride in her achievements, including her leadership of BAFTA-winning coverage at Sky News.

Caro Kriel Children

Caro Kriel and Daniel Sandford have two children, though their names and personal details remain private, reflecting the couple’s respect for family privacy and professional boundaries.

Caro Kriel’s Impact and Legacy

Throughout her career, Caro has demonstrated exceptional leadership, editorial integrity, and unwavering dedication to the advancement of independent journalism. Her ability to guide global teams through conflict, crisis, and rapid digital change has set her apart as one of the most influential media executives of her generation.

From Southern Africa to London, from the Associated Press to Sky News, CNN, and the Thomson Foundation, her journey reflects versatility, courage, and a deep commitment to ethical information in a rapidly changing world.

Quick Info

Conclusion

Caro Kriel is not just a media executive; she is a visionary leader shaping the future of journalism. Her work supports media professionals across the world, empowers women’s voices, strengthens press freedom, and advances trusted information in an age of misinformation.

With her global experience, strong leadership values, and dedication to ethical journalism, Caro Kriel remains a powerful influence in international media and a role model for future generations.

FAQs

1. Who is Caro Kriel?

Caro Kriel is a veteran media executive and the Chief Executive of the Thomson Foundation, an organisation supporting independent journalism around the world. She has more than two decades of global newsroom leadership experience, including senior roles at the Associated Press, Sky News, and CNN.

2. How old is Caro Kriel?

Caro Kriel was born in August 1970, making her 55 years old as of 2025. Her extensive experience reflects a lifelong career in international journalism and media management.

3. Who is Caro Kriel’s husband?

Caro Kriel is married to Daniel Sandford, the well-known UK/Home Affairs Correspondent at BBC News. Their partnership brings together two highly respected figures in British and international journalism.

4. How many children does Caro Kriel have?

Caro Kriel and her husband Daniel Sandford have two children. The couple maintains a private family life, keeping their children’s details out of the public domain.

5. What is Caro Kriel known for in her career?

Caro Kriel is known for her leadership in global news organisations, her expertise in crisis reporting, and her commitment to ethical journalism. She has held senior roles at Sky News, CNN, and the Associated Press, and currently oversees international media development as CEO of the Thomson Foundation.

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