Montana Free Press CEO John Adams Has Resigned
The founder of the Montana news outlet announced he will step down from the role on June 1, 2027.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
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Montana Free Press founder John Adams announced on Tuesday that he will resign as CEO. He plans to vacate the position effective June 1, 2027.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a significant transition for the organization as it looks to appoint a successor to guide the next chapter of the outlet. Adams intends to spend the coming months assisting board members in the search for a new executive.
The Montana Free Press currently employs a staff of 25 people across its operations. The outgoing leader founded the organization in 2016 and oversaw the 2024 acquisition of Mountain Journal.
The players
John Adams
He is the founder and current CEO of Montana Free Press who announced his upcoming departure from the organization.
Montana Free Press
This is a Montana-based news organization that has grown to 25 staff members and serves as a major information source for the state.
Mountain Journal
This publication focuses on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and was acquired by the Montana Free Press in 2024.
The details
A hiring committee composed of advisory board members is currently being assembled to manage the leadership search. Adams will work directly with the board to interview candidates before his departure next summer.
Timeline
Montana Free Press was founded in 2016.
Dark Money documentary was released in 2018.
MTFP acquired Mountain Journal in 2024.
Resignation was announced on October 13, 2026.
The CEO term ends on June 1, 2027.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition occurs as the organization navigates a period of consolidation following its 2024 acquisition of Mountain Journal. The move reflects broader trends in local independent media as outlets seek to stabilize and sustain operations through long-term succession planning.
Readers of the outlet should not expect immediate changes to newsroom operations or content delivery during the transition period. The organization continues to operate with its current staff of 25 while the search for a new leader progresses.
The takeaway
Successful organizational transitions rely on thorough succession planning and clear communication during periods of leadership change. Readers can observe how the organization maintains its editorial mission as it prepares to hand over control to a new executive.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest leadership developments in the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Montana Free Press.
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