Ken Jautz, a key senior CNN executive who played a critical role in both making the news giant run properly and developing some of its best known personalities, will leave the Warner Bros, Discovery operation by year’s end.

“After 36 years with the company, Ken has decided he is ready for a new chapter,” said Mark Thompson, chairman and CEO of CNN, in a memo sent to staffers Wednesday. He added: “It is difficult to capture the impact Ken has had on our brand.”

Indeed, Jautz, who in his time oversaw the cable network Hln before taking on a key role running CNN’s technology and facilities, during his tenure influenced CNN’s international operations; its infrastructure; and its role in popular culture. Without Jautz, CNN might have had to go off the air during the coronavirus pandemic, and without Jautz, figures such as Nancy Grace and Robin Meade would...