Andrew Lack was president of NBC News from 1993 to 2001, but after a series of issues resulted in the suspension of Brian Williams in February, the network has asked Lack to return to lead its news division. In an attempt to restructure the news operation, Lack will be overseeing both NBC News and MSNBC, and is being asked to help NBCUniversal chief executive Steve Burke determine Williams’ fate.

NBC’s drama began last month, when Williams was suspended for six months without pay after admitting that he embellished his story during a 2003 helicopter episode in Iraq. Williams’ ultimate future with the network is still up in the air, as the investigators making their internal review of the journalist have asked for a few more weeks to look into the matter. Among the many tasks on Lack’s to-do list will be helping NBCUniversal’s Steve Burke figure out what to do with Williams once the review is completed. Some television executives believe that this will help Williams regain his position, since Lack has a reputation for being close with NBC’s on-air performers, and once helped Williams in his rise to the anchor chair.

In a memo to employees, Burke revealed that Lack will start his new position in April, and that he will aim to figure out how to reverse ratings declines at MSNBC. Lack will likely attempt to start with the Today show, as the former early-morning powerhouse has been falling down the ratings charts in recent months. Sources close to the network are unsure of how his return will affect other management positions, but believe he will attempt to establish his own team.

“Andy’s experience and familiarity with our company and specifically the news division will be critical to our growth and future success,” wrote Burke in the memo.

Lack began his prestigious career as a former news producer for CBS, and was recruited to lead NBC in 1993. He has worked as chief executive of the Broadcasting Board of Governors since January.