Dougherty oversees CNN International's programming and production facilities in Hong Kong and also coordinates coverage from all of CNN's correspondents and bureaus across the Asia Pacific region. Dougherty has replaced Paul Cutler who left CNN for family reasons to return to Australia in February 2005.

CNN International MD Chris Cramer said, "Jill is one of the most accomplished senior correspondents and managers at CNN. Jill has covered many of the biggest international stories in the past 15 years and brings with her a flair and vibrancy on screen and excellent managerial skills."

Dougherty takes on the post of Managing Editor Asia Pacific as China prepares to host the Olympics in 2008, international tension continues to rise in North Korea and much of the business community and government around the world tackle the contentious issue of 'outsourcing'.

"I am honoured that CNN has asked me to take on this key international role," said Dougherty. "This part of the world is continually at the center of the biggest global news stories. To be able to lead this award-winning team of correspondents, anchors and staff in Hong Kong and the region is an exciting opportunity to contribute to what CNN does best: provide our viewers around the world with news and programs they trust and enjoy."

CNN Hong Kong produces more than 30 hours a week of programming for CNN International, including CNN Today, World News Asia, Talk Asia and Spark, while also providing many hours of newsgathering and programming for other CNN's services including CNN/US, CNN Headline News, CNN.com, CNN.com/International Edition and CNN radio.

Dougherty brings to this position more than two decades of experience. She joined CNN in 1983 as a correspondent based at Chicago bureau. From 1991 to 1996, she was a CNN White House correspondent before she was appointed Moscow bureau chief in 1997.