Polly Shepherd has been named the new publisher of the Federal Way Mirror.

As regional publisher for Sound Publishing’s South King County titles, Shepherd already oversees business operations at several weekly newspapers in the region including the Kent Reporter, Auburn Reporter, Renton Reporter and the Enumclaw Courier-Herald. She is a longtime Federal Way resident with almost two decades in the newspaper industry.

“The Mirror is a vital part of the Federal Way community, and I am committed to making sure it stays that way,” Shepherd said. “I am proud to inherit a great team in Federal Way that is focused on quality journalism and the success of local small businesses.”

Andy Hobbs, who became the Mirror’s publisher in May 2017, has been promoted to editorial director for Sound Publishing’s King County newspapers. Hobbs will guide and strengthen the journalistic efforts at 16 publications in the county. Mirror editor Heidi Jacobs will continue to oversee the day-to-day news operations in Federal Way.

Before becoming publisher, Hobbs had spent more than 17 years on the journalism side of the newspaper business, including seven and a half years as editor of the Mirror from 2006-2013.

“I have enjoyed my time as publisher, and I am eager to return to what I know best – journalism,” Hobbs said. “I will still maintain a presence in Federal Way and will be doing everything I can to make sure the Mirror remains a relevant part of local life.”

The Mirror’s first issue was published Feb. 4, 1998. As Federal Way’s newspaper of record, the Mirror has received multiple awards over the past 20 years for its journalism and advertising.