Food Safety News appoints Morgan Holm as executive director and Editor in Chief
Seattle, Washington – Food Safety News today announced the appointment of Morgan Holm as executive director and editor-in-chief, effective February 1, 2026. Holm brings 35 years of distinguished experience in journalism and media leadership, most recently as senior vice president and chief content officer at Oregon Public Broadcasting, where he transformed the organization into a leading regional news media outlet and a pioneer in digital-first public media.
This appointment marks an important milestone in FSN’s evolution as a non-profit organization. With the successful launch of its reader-supported membership model in December 2025, Food Safety News is positioned for sustainable growth and increased impact in independent food safety journalism.
“Morgan is exactly the right leader at the moment,” said Peter Gustafson, chairman of the board of Food Safety News. “His vision for collaborative, mission-driven journalism aligns perfectly with FSN’s long-term strategy, and his experience building sustainable media organizations while preserving editorial independence gives us immense confidence in the path ahead.” The Board of Directors is united in our support, and we are excited about the continuity and growth it will bring to FSN.
During his three-decade tenure at Oregon Public Broadcasting, Holm oversaw all local content production across radio, television and digital platforms, led major digital modernization initiatives, championed collaborative journalism partnerships and led award-winning coverage. Under his leadership, OPB won a Peabody Award and launched popular programs like the daily talk show Think Out Loud. He also launched partnerships with local newspapers to strengthen the regional news ecosystem and implemented initiatives focused on staff diversity and newsroom ethics.
“I joined the FSN Board of Directors last summer and have closely observed the transformation of Peter and his team,” Holm said. “Independent journalism on food safety has never been more critical. The FSN Board’s vision of a sustainable, reader-supported model is exactly what independent media needs, and I’m committed to building on the incredible momentum FSN has created.
Bill Marler, founder and publisher of Food Safety News, added: “For 16 years, I have personally funded FSN because someone needs to be watching.
Holm will inherit an organization that has established itself as the leading independent voice of food safety journalism, serving food safety professionals, industry leaders, policymakers and consumers around the world with breaking news and in-depth analysis. The membership launch in December 2025 generated strong early adoption, validating reader demand for independent, ad-free coverage on food safety.
Before joining OPB in 1990, Holm began his journalism career at Jefferson Public Radio in 1986. He holds a degree from Southern Oregon University.
Peter Gustafson will remain Chairman of the Board and continue to guide the strategic direction of FSN while stepping back from day-to-day operations.
About food safety news
Food Safety News is an independent, nonprofit publication dedicated to investigative reporting on foodborne illness outbreaks, food recalls and regulatory developments affecting the global food supply. Founded in 2009, FSN provides food safety professionals, industry leaders, policymakers and consumers with up-to-the-minute information and in-depth analysis.
For more information, visit foodsafetynews.com.
To subscribe to FSN+, visit foodsafetynews.com/membership.
Media Contact:
Morgan Holm
Executive Director and Editor-in-Chief of Food Safety News
mholm@foodsafetynews.com
503-539-3099
