James B. Shaffer, vice president of finance...

James B. Shaffer, vice president of finance and planning for the Los Angeles Times, has been appointed vice president of the Sun-Times Co. Shaffer’s primary responsibilities for the Chicago-based media holding company will include finance, planning, acquisitions and development.

“The Sun-Times presents an exciting challenge to a longtime newspaper person such as myself,” Shaffer said. “While I certainly will miss the relationships I have developed during my years at The Times, I look forward to working with the fine management team at the Sun-Times and the opportunity to be part of its growth as a media company.”

Shaffer, 44, has served in his present position at the Los Angeles Times since 1985. Previously, he was vice president and chief financial officer. Shaffer spent 13 years with Cowles Media Co. of Minneapolis before joining The Times in 1983.

“Jim has served as a vital component of the Times management team,” said David Laventhol, Los Angeles Times publisher and chief executive. “He has demonstrated outstanding leadership in streamlining our financial reporting system and in strengthening The Times’ approach to strategic planning.”