Introduction to Susan Mercandetti
Susan Mercandetti is a distinguished American media executive, producer, and publishing expert with a career spanning multiple decades. Known for her pivotal roles in network television and book publishing, Mercandetti has influenced the world of media through her expertise in storytelling, editorial leadership, and strategic media development. While much of her professional work remains behind the scenes, her contributions have significantly shaped the narratives we consume, both in broadcast journalism and the world of publishing.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1953 in Arlington, Massachusetts, Susan Mercandetti’s journey to the top of the media industry was far from conventional. Growing up in a working-class family, Mercandetti witnessed the challenges of hard work and perseverance early on. Her father worked as a salesman and in a meatpacking plant, while her mother worked in a sweatshop. These humble beginnings instilled in her the values of determination and resilience, shaping her professional career.
Susan attended the University of New Hampshire (UNH), where she developed a passion for communications. It was during her time at UNH that she honed her writing and storytelling skills, which would later propel her career in the media industry. After graduation in the mid-1970s, Susan began her professional journey in political communications, working as an editor for the White House Presidential News Summary.
The Early Stages of Her Career in Media
Mercandetti’s early career in media was marked by her work with influential political figures. She served as a press aide to U.S. Senator Edward W. Brooke and later worked on the communications team at the White House. These roles provided her with a foundation in media relations, setting the stage for her later work in network television.
Susan’s big break came when she joined ABC News in the late 1970s. As a producer for the highly influential news program Nightline, Mercandetti helped shape the narrative around major national events such as the Iran hostage crisis. Her behind-the-scenes work at Nightline laid the foundation for her future as a producer and editorial leader in broadcast journalism.
Her Role in Television Production
Mercandetti’s career in television reached new heights during her tenure at ABC News, where she played a key role in producing some of the network’s most impactful programming. As an early producer for Nightline, she worked closely with Ted Koppel and other iconic figures in news journalism. The show’s coverage of critical events, including the Iran hostage crisis and U.S. foreign relations, helped solidify Nightline as a staple of late-night news.
In addition to her work on Nightline, Mercandetti also contributed to other high-profile television projects, such as The Last Word with Phil Donahue and 45/85. Her expertise in managing news programming and her keen editorial eye made her a trusted leader within ABC News.
Susan Mercandetti Transitioning to Publishing and Editorial Leadership
After her successful television career, Susan Mercandetti transitioned into the publishing world, where she made a significant impact on both magazine editorial teams and book publishing. She served as an editor for Vanity Fair, one of the leading magazines of the time, and also contributed to The New Yorker. Her work at these renowned publications solidified her as a powerhouse in editorial leadership.
Mercandetti also worked at Miramax Books, where she edited and developed projects for some of the most high-profile authors in the literary world. Her editorial direction at Random House, where she served as an editor, helped shape major publishing projects. During her time at Penguin Random House, she continued to expand her legacy in the publishing industry by overseeing the development and publication of bestselling books.
Susan Mercandetti Leadership Roles and Consulting
In the later years of her career, Mercandetti expanded her influence to media consultancy. As a partner at Narrative Trust, a consultancy specializing in media production and storytelling strategy, she helped businesses and brands develop compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. Her expertise in editorial strategy, publishing, and media development made her a sought-after consultant for various clients across industries.
Mercandetti also served as a Vice President for Business Development & Partnerships at ABC News, where she helped guide the network through new media ventures and partnerships. Her work in developing these opportunities helped ensure ABC News remained at the forefront of the media industry.
Susan Mercandetti Personal Life and Family
Susan Mercandetti’s personal life is just as remarkable as her professional career. She is married to Richard N. Haass, the former president of the Council on Foreign Relations and a respected diplomat. The couple married in 1990 and maintains a private yet influential presence in both the diplomatic and media spheres.
Together, they have two children, Sam Haass and Francesca Haass, and reside in New York City. Despite their high-profile careers, Susan and Richard have managed to keep their family life relatively private, focusing on their respective fields while maintaining a close-knit family unit.
Susan Mercandetti Net Worth and Financial Standing
As of 2025, Susan Mercandetti’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million. Much of her wealth has been accumulated through her extensive career in media and publishing. Her roles in television production, editorial leadership at major publications, and strategic consulting have all contributed to her financial success.
Her work at ABC News, Penguin Random House, and her consulting ventures with Narrative Trust have cemented her as one of the most respected figures in the media and publishing industries. Her financial success is a reflection of her dedication to storytelling and her ability to shape influential media projects across multiple platforms.
Susan Mercandetti Legacy and Impact
Susan Mercandetti’s career is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to shape public discourse. Through her work in television and publishing, she has helped craft some of the most compelling narratives in modern media. Whether working behind the scenes at Nightline or editing bestselling books, Mercandetti has had a lasting influence on both journalism and literature.
Her legacy extends beyond her professional achievements; Susan has also played an integral role in mentoring the next generation of journalists, editors, and media executives. Her dedication to the craft of storytelling, whether through the written word or broadcast journalism, has inspired countless professionals in the media industry.
Conclusion
Susan Mercandetti’s life and career have been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early years in political communications to her pivotal roles in television production, publishing, and consulting, she has left a lasting mark on the media industry. Today, Mercandetti’s influence continues to be felt through her work in consulting, her legacy in publishing, and her strategic contributions to the world of broadcast journalism. As she moves forward in her career, Susan Mercandetti remains an influential figure in both the media and publishing industries, continuing to shape the stories we consume.
