Trib names Rob Amen as new managing editor

Rob Amen, a longtime newsroom leader who has helped shape the Tribune-Review’s thriving digital strategy, has been named the Trib’s new managing editor.

Amen has held a wide range of roles since joining the Valley News Dispatch as a sports reporter in 1997. He has worked as an assistant sports editor, news editor and enterprise reporter, among several editorial positions.

During the past five years, Amen has managed the Trib’s digital content strategy, spearheading ambitious projects that have allowed the Trib to grow its digital audience. TribLIVE is now the most visited news website in the Western Pennsylvania market.

“Rob brings an incredible amount of talent and experience to this role,” said Luis Fabregas, the Trib’s incoming executive editor. “What I admire the most about him is his persistent spirit of innovation, of never giving up and always bringing new ideas to the table. Our readers will no doubt benefit from this.”

Amen honed his skills as a print journalist, giving him a unique perspective on the needs of both digital consumers and the Trib’s loyal newspaper subscribers, said Jennifer Bertetto, president and CEO of Trib Total Media.

“We are committed to bringing the best content to readers on both print and digital platforms,” Bertetto said. “Rob’s skills are ideal at a time when the news industry is facing remarkable change and readers are demanding more quality and speed.”

Amen, 45, is a Hempfield native and Hempfield High School graduate who grew up reading the Tribune-­Review. He called his new role “a dream come true.”

“The Trib has always been such an integral part of our community,” he said. “I look forward to continuing the Trib’s tradition of excellence.”

Amen said he is committed to maintaining the Trib’s high-quality print products while continuing to push digital boundaries.

“Our goal has always been to give readers the news they want, how they want it, when they want it,” Amen said. “But we also encourage readers to become part of our journey. We strive to build strong relationships with our readers and earn their trust by providing engaging, informative and entertaining stories in a responsible manner.”

In his new role, Amen will oversee the day-to-day operations of the news department, including the Trib’s award-winning sports desk. He begins his new role Nov. 20.

The Trib announced in May that Executive Editor Susan McFarland will retire in September after 40 years at the news organization. She will be succeeded by Fabregas, who will take over as the top newsroom leader Sept. 16.

Amen lives in Plum with his wife, Keightley, daughter, Elizabeth, and triplet sons Alex, Matthew and William.