San Fernando Valley Business Journal Editor Jason Schaff has announced his resignation from the paper effective in January. A long-time Valley resident, Schaff brought a deep understanding of the region’s past and future challenges when he joined the paper in March 2003 after three years at the Los Angeles Business Journal where he served as deputy managing editor. He was previously an editor in the business section of the Daily News. At the Valley Business Journal, Schaff supervised an editorial staff of three reporters, a researcher and a production manager. Schaff said after four years at the Business Journal and 30 years in the newspaper business, it was the best time to move on and look for other opportunities. His time as editor has been fulfilling, he said. “I said upon my hiring in 2003 that I looked forward to helping take our newspaper to the next level,” Schaff said. “I believe that with a great staff we’ve done that and I’m looking forward to see the new editor and this staff do even more.” Business Journal Publisher Pegi Matsuda credited Schaff with deepening the business and financial analysis in the journal’s coverage as well as being approachable and knowing the major players in the business world. As editor, Schaff also took risks that others may not have taken and was open to seeing how things would play out, Matsuda said. “People liked calling him and sharing information and giving their opinion,” Matsuda said. “People trust him.” Outside the office Schaff was visible in the Valley business community, regularly attending events such as those sponsored by the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley and the Valley Industry & Commerce Association. “I think the Valley Business Journal is clearly an institution and is just a tremendous resource for Valley business owners and especially VICA members and Jason deserves a lot of credit for making it what it is,” said Brendan Huffman, VICA president. “His resignation came as a surprise but it’s always good to resign when you’re at the top of your game.” Schaff has also been supportive of Valley charitable organizations, serving as vice president of the Los Angeles Valley College Foundation Board of Directors and participating on the marketing committee of the Boys and Girls Club of the West Valley. Business Journal Associate Sales Manager Jamie Chien said he admires the effort Schaff brought to the paper. “We have made great strides under his leadership and the next editor will have large shoes to fill as Jason has been able to position himself as a great leader of our community,” Chien said. Schaff has a master’s degree in mass communications from California State University Northridge and resides in North Hollywood. A search for his replacement is underway.
