Rick Gevers & Associates

July 9, 2023

Wednesday,July 12, 2023 UPDATE:

Greetings:

A longtime Raleigh news director is retiring from his job.

But there’s an unusual twist.

He’s not leaving until next year!

   Gall

RICK GALL, who’s been news director for Capitol Broadcasting’s WRAL-TV (NBC) for more than 18 years, will leave the station at the end of May, 2024.

General Manager JOEL DAVIS told the staff today via this memo.

Rick first joined WRAL in 1995 as a reporter, later became an Assignment Editor, then Assignment Manager, Managing Editor, & Assistant News Director, before ascending to the ND job in January, 2005.

Rick replaced, I believe, JOHN HARRIS, who became Creative Services Director. It’s was John’s second turn in the ND office.

The station is beginning the search for this replacement, so you can start working on your resume. But wait to submit it until after you see the station’s ad for the job in this weekend’s newsletter!

regards,

Rick Gevers

**** ***** ****

Greetings:

A rather busy week, considering it was holiday shortened.

There were TWO new news directors named, while there are FOUR new openings.

That leaves 35 stations on our list of open ND jobs, and TWO of those openings are among our THREE paid help wanted ads.

TWO GM changes, both at Tegna stations: ONE involves the retirement of a longtime Tegna GM, while ONE sees a newswoman promoted to a GM job.

And there are several items in Names in the News, including the retirement of a multi-time ND who’s headed to academia.

Read on for those stories and more.

Newly Named News Directors:

Kummer

WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY…MATT KUMMER moves within Gray to be the next ND for this NBC affiliate. He’s leaving Gray’s WVLT-TV (CBS) in Knoxville and posted this, while his new GM in Louisville, JOHN O’BRIEN sent this to his staff. Matt’s been at WVLT about two years, spent ten years as an ND in Green Bay, and has worked in several other markets. At WAVE, he replaces JENELLE SHRINER who left in June after about 18 months as ND.

Fobe

WISC-TV, Madison, WI…KYLE FOBE is the news news director for this Morgan Murphy Media owned NBC affiliate. Details in this staff memo from GM LYLE BANKS. Kyle’s been the ND for WBND-TV in South Bend, the Weigel owned ABC affilaite, for 3 1/2 years and earlier was an ND in Altoona, PA. Kyle replaces SARAH GRAY who left late last year after three years on the job.

New News Director Openings:

WLVT-TV, Knoxville, TN…if you were paying attention above, you already know that MATT KUMMER is leaving this Gray owned CBS affiliate for a Gray owned NBC affiliate in Louisville, WAVE-TV.

Miller

WCIA-TV, Champaign, IL…after 13 years in two stints at news director for this Nexstar owned CBS affiliate, ANDY MILLER is jumping off the merry-go-round and starting his own business. He explained his new venture in this note to me. In between his two stints as ND here, Andy also spent six years working as a Director of Local Content Development for Nexstar.

WBND-TV, South Bend, IN…you also learned above (if you were paying attention, and, if not, shame on you) that KYLE FOBE is leaving one family owned station (Weigel, in this case) for another (Morgan Murphy) where he’ll be ND for CBS affiliate WISC-TV in Madison, WI.

Bill C.

KIFI-TV, Idaho Falls, ID…longtime newsman BILL CUMMINGS will retire this fall as ND for this News Press & Gazette owned station. By the time he leaves, Bill will have been here for about three years, one of (if my count is correct) NINE ND stops in his career. See if my math is good by checking out Bill’s Linkedin page and count them for yourself. 🙂

And while it is not a new opening, please check out the Paid Help Wanted ad below for the opening at Nexstar’s WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids. (If you get the job and dig deep enough, you might find memos I wrote during my tenure as ND from 1993-1995). 🙂

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WOOD-TV, Grand Rapids, MI:

WOOD TV in Grand Rapids, Michigan (DMA #42) has an immediate opening for a News Director.

This job is special. You will lead a team of award-winning journalists and develop your own leadership team. You will work for a station where communities matter. You will be able to build upon a deep legacy of journalism across multiple platforms and three broadcast stations.

West Michigan is a dynamic collection of communities that include a vibrant at scene, tourist destinations along beautiful Lake Michigan, agricultural industries and a wealth of innovative companies focusing on information technology, life sciences, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

We want a News Director who is an innovative and dynamic leader, possessing excellent news and ethical judgement, strong understanding of hard news and a passion to continue the station’s historic legacy as the region’s news leader. The station includes an award-winning investigative team, a market-leading local sports operation and a respected weather team.

Responsibilities include managing daily news content across multiple platforms; hiring, training and mentoring producers, reporters, and anchors; overseeing special projects and daily operations in the newsroom.

You also get to be a part of the largest television ownership group in the country- Nexstar Media Group. If you are interested in joining us, click here:

Nightside Executive Producer, WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC:

Would you like to be a leader in a multiplatform news operation with a commitment to excellence and the resources you need to succeed? WRAL is seeking a strong Executive Producer to oversee content, showcasing and innovation in WRAL’s late newscasts. The Nightside Executive Producer will work closely with our digital, graphics, promotion, and news management teams and must own breaking news on all platforms.

We are looking for a decision maker with strong ethics, outstanding communication skills, superb news judgment and the desire to win. If you have a vision for graphics and a passion for fast-paced, creative newscasts, this is the job for you.

Responsibilities:

· Own breaking news on all platforms.
· Mentor and develop producing and reporting staff.
· Lead editorial decision making for nightside coverage.
· Plan and execute “Big Story” coverage.
· Write and approve scripts.
· Review digital copy and topical promotion.
· Enhance weather and sports content.

Qualifications:

· Five years of experience in producing newscasts preferred.
· Two years of news management experience preferred.
· A four-year college degree.

Learn more about this opportunity by clicking here.

News Director, WXXV-TV, Gulfport, MS:

WXXV, the Morris Multimedia station in Gulfport, MS, seeks a News Director to lead a team of enthusiastic, young journalists and seasoned professionals. The ideal candidate brings a history of leadership and mentorship. Key responsibilities include recruiting, developing and retaining talent, creating overall LOCAL journalistic strategy and policy for daily newscasts, effectively managing staff and resources while fostering a positive, proactive and productive work environment.

WXXV is a great place to work, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast has truly emerged as a sought-out tourist destination with a flourishing arts and music scene, and attractions that highlight the region’s natural splendor. Add to this sun-soaked beaches, world-class golf courses, exquisite art galleries, fresh-off-the-dock seafood, deep-sea fishing and avid nightlife. The barrier islands and waterways offer both relaxation and adventure. Annual attractions include Cruisin’ the Coast, Mardi Gras, and the Senior PGA Tournament. Home to Ingalls Shipbuilding and Stennis Space Center, South Mississippi has a very viable and diverse workforce. New Orleans is 80 miles to the west. Mobile is 67 miles to the east.

Now, back to the station:

We utilize DMV & criminal background checks as a condition of employment.

Please email resume and references to: hr@wxxv25.com

No phone calls

Employment at WXXV shall be based on merit, qualification, and competence. Employment practice shall not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant’s or an employee’s race, age, sex, religion, color, national origin, or disability. Females and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KCBS/KCAL-TV, Los Angeles, LA (listed 4/30/23)
WOOD-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 7/9/23)
WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 6/4/23)
KATC-TV, Lafayette, LA (listed 7/2/23)
WNCT-TV, Greenville, NC (relisted 7/9/23)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KTLA-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 5/29/23)
KRON-TV, San Francisco, CA (listed 7/2/23)
KIAH-TV, Houston, TX (AM/Special Projects EP, relisted 7/9/23)
WDCW-TV, Washington DC (listed 6/11/23)
KGO-TV, San Francisco, CA (relisted 4/23/23)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, ND (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WNCN-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 5/21/23)
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC (Nightside EP, listed 7/9/23, see ad above!)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 5/29/23)
WKRN-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 5/14/23)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Special Projects EP, listed 6/4/23)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (AM EP, listed 5/14/23)
KVUE-TV, Austin, TX (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 7/2/23)
WXIX-TV Cincinnati, OH (EP, listed 5/29/23)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 7/2/23)
WOOD-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 7/9/23)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 5/21/23)
WLEX-TV, Lexington, KY listed 7/2/23)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCBD-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 6/11/23)
WCIA-TV, Champaign, IL (Digital EP, listed 5/29/23)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 7/2/23)
KTVH-TV, Helena, MT (listed 7/2/23)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KCTV, Kansas City, MO (listed 5/13/23)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 6/11/23)
KOKI-TV, Tulsa, OK (listed 7/2/23)

More News Management Openings:

Relisted 7/9/23:

WMBD-TV, Peoria, IL (Assignment Manager)
WWTI-TV, Watertown, NY (Digital Content Manager)

Listed 5/7/23:

U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Multimedia News Manager)
U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Technical News Producer)

Names in the News:

Roth

Longtime ND GEOFF ROTH says he’s retiring and headed to academia:

After more than 4 decades, I am retiring from the TV news business. It has been a fun and wild ride that has taken me all over the country and allowed me to cover everything from hurricanes to political revolutions. Most importantly, I have made some amazing friends all across the globe and had the pleasure of working with many incredible journalists. However, I won’t be completely leaving the world of journalism. Starting this fall, I will be joining the faculty in the journalism department at the University of Houston as a Professor of Practice. Texas, here we come, and Go Coogs.

Geoff’s extensive career history is here.

Crutcher

WLEX-TV, the Scripps owned NBC affiliate in Lexington, KY, has named DeLAINA CRUTCHER as its next Assistant News Director. News Director JENNIFER SMITH sent this memo to the staff. DeLaina is in her second tour of duty with WLEX, has worked for another Lexington station, and in Columbus, OH.

Apologies to ALLISON GIBSON, as we screwed up the site of her longtime tenure at News 12 in our mention last week of her new job. She was, in fact, at News 12 New Jersey for 18 years, not News 12 Long Island.

General Manager News and Notes:

O’Dell

Longtime General Manager RICH O’DELL is retiring after more than 24 years running Tegna’s WLTX-TV (CBS) in Columbia, SC. Rich posted this note on social media. In addition to his long run at WLTX, he had a similar long tenure at WKYC-TV in Cleveland, where he spent 21+ years as Manager of Programming and Production. Rich also worked in Columbus, OH, and Paducah, KY.

Guyton

VALERIE GUYTON, who’s been the Assistant News Director for NBC’s KXAS-TV in Dallas-Ft. Worth, has been named President and General Manager for KWES-TV, KIDY-TV and KXVA-TV, all Tegna stations in West Texas. Details about Valerie’s new stations in this news release and more on Valerie’s varied background on her Linkedin page.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, July 9, 2023:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
WZDC-TV 4001 Nebraska Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016 **
WCCO-TV 90 S. 11th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St, Doral, FL 33178 **
KXTV 400 Broadway Sacramento, CA 95818
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane Las Vegas, NV 89101
WOOD-TV 120 College Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (See ad above!)
WWMT-TV 590 West Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St. Providence, RI 02904
KFTV 3239 W Ashlan Av. Fresno, CA 93722 **
WIVB-TV 2077 Elmwood Ave Buffalo, NY 14207
WATE-TV 1306 North Broadway Knoxville, TN 37917
WVLT-TV 6450 Papermill Drive. Knoxville, TN 37919
KITV 801 So. King St. Honolulu, HI 96813
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WICA-TV 509 S. Neil St., Champaign, IL 61820
WICS-TV 2680 E. Cook St. Springfield, IL 62703
WBND-TV 53550 Generations Drive South Bend, IN 46635
WQAD-TV 3003 Park 16th Street Moline, IL 61265
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Avenue Altoona, PA 16602
KIMA-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima, WA 98901
KMIZ-TV 501 Business Loop 70 E., Columbia MO 65201
KQDS-TV 2001 London Road Duluth, MN 55812
KIFI-TV 1915 N. Yellowstone Hwy. Idaho Falls, ID 83401
WXXV-TV 14351 Hwy 49 N. Gulfport, MS 39503 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WKBP-TV 1705 Ash Street Suite 5 Ishpeming, MI 49849
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KMVT-TV 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd North, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Delta News 837 Washington Ave Greenville, MS 38701
KAEF-TV 540 E Street Eureka, CA 95501
KIEM-TV 5650 S Broadway St Eureka, CA 95503
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KNOP-TV 402. S. Dewey. North Platte NE 69101

**: Spanish language station

July 2, 2023

Greetings:

One of the busiest weeks on a long time.

FOUR new news directors named.

THREE new openings.

SIX General Manager changes, THREE in top 20 markets.

THREE obituaries, including TWO of former news directors.

TWO paid help wanted ads for news directors, among our 33 stations looking for a new ND.

And FOUR items in Names in the News.

We also welcome back Octopus which will be with us the next four weeks promoting its innovative newsroom computer system leading up to the TAB conference.

Grab your favorite beverage and read on!

Newly Named News Directors:

Bannard

KSAZ-TV, Phoenix, AZ…the first news director change in more than two decades at this FOX o-and-o happened this week, as DOUG BANNARD left on Friday after 26 years as news director. His long time assistant, STEVE LEVI, will replace him.

Both joined the station in the 90s. Doug started in 1990 as a producer, advanced to executive producer, assistant news director, and then ND.

Levi

Steve’s also a long time employee of this Fox owned and operated station, first joining FOX 10 in 1994. He’s been an assignment editor, associate producer, producer and executive producer and has been the assistant news director for the last eight years, obviously working closely with Doug the entire time.

Best wishes to both in their new roles.

Murrietta

KOKI-TV, Tulsa, OK…RUDY MURRIETA is the new news director at this Imagicomm Communications owned FOX affiliate. He has been Managing Editor here before moving into the news director job back in May. Rudy’s background is long and varied as you’ll see by clicking on his Linkedin page. At KOKI, he replaces FRANK VOLPICELLA who left the station back in February and retired after 43 years in our business.

Donley

KHGI-TV, Kearney, NE…ANDREW DONLEY is the new ND for this Sinclair owned ABC affiliate. Andrew posted this on Linkedin about his new job. He began his career as a photojournalist and MMJ for two stations in Oklahoma City, and worked in Birmingham as a reporter before moving into management. Andrew replaces MATT WEESNER who left in late 2022 after eleven years as the ND here

Brunner

WIBW-TV, Topeka, KS…a longtime station employee replaces another longtime station employee as news director for this Gray TV owned CBS affiliate. MELLISA BRUNNER, who’s an anchor and has been at the station for 27 years, will replace JON JANES. We told you three weeks ago that Jon was retiring after 24 years as ND and more than 50 years in television news.

New News Director Openings:

Tang

WOOD-TV, Grand Rapids, MI…as you likely are aware by now, STANTON TANG was one of four people dismissed this week at this Nexstar owned NBC affiliate. It all stems from a memo about coverage of Pride activities. New this edition: Details about the situation from Crain’s Grand Rapids Business. Stanton’s been ND here since late 2021, earlier had been ND for WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids and for a station in Reno.

Coe

WATE-TV, Knoxville, TN..ALLISON COE is staying within Nexstar but leaving this ABC affiliate. She’s taking a job in sales at sister Nexstar station WJHL-TV (CBS/ABC) in the Tri-Cities market. (I understand that family matters had a role in this decision.) She’s been the ND here for not quite five years and earlier worked for 16 years at WKRN-TV in Nashville in a variety of management roles.

Sullivan

WXXV-TV, Gulfport, MS…this Morris Media owned FOX/NBC operation is looking for a new news director. My records show that JOE SULLIVAN was promoted to news director here in 2014, one year after he first joined the station as an evening anchor. You can learn more about this opening in the Paid Help Wanted ad below.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WXXV-TV, Gulfport, MS:

WXXV, the Morris Multimedia station in Gulfport, MS, seeks a News Director to lead a team of enthusiastic, young journalists and seasoned professionals. The ideal candidate brings a history of leadership and mentorship. Key responsibilities include recruiting, developing and retaining talent, creating overall LOCAL journalistic strategy and policy for daily newscasts, effectively managing staff and resources while fostering a positive, proactive and productive work environment.

WXXV is a great place to work, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast has truly emerged as a sought-out tourist destination with a flourishing arts and music scene, and attractions that highlight the region’s natural splendor. Add to this sun-soaked beaches, world-class golf courses, exquisite art galleries, fresh-off-the-dock seafood, deep-sea fishing and avid nightlife. The barrier islands and waterways offer both relaxation and adventure. Annual attractions include Cruisin’ the Coast, Mardi Gras, and the Senior PGA Tournament. Home to Ingalls Shipbuilding and Stennis Space Center, South Mississippi has a very viable and diverse workforce. New Orleans is 80 miles to the west. Mobile is 67 miles to the east.

Now, back to the station:

We utilize DMV & criminal background checks as a condition of employment.

Please email resume and references to: hr@wxxv25.com

No phone calls

Employment at WXXV shall be based on merit, qualification, and competence. Employment practice shall not be influenced or affected by virtue of an applicant’s or an employee’s race, age, sex, religion, color, national origin, or disability. Females and minorities are encouraged to apply.

News Director, KIEM-TV, Eureka, CA:

Redwood News in beautiful Eureka, California is seeking a News Director.

California has a moderate climate, immense redwoods, the pacific ocean and everything outdoors. It’s a great place to start a news director position or wind down your career.

News Director experience preferred: however experienced executive producers or assistant news directors looking to move into the News Director role are also welcomed to apply.

It’s also a great place for someone who wants to restart their career. This is a hands on situation and not for someone who wants to sit in the office behind a desk.

We are looking for someone who:

• Can oversee the daily operations of the television newsroom.
  Is tech savvy with attention to website content and social media.
  Hire, train, and coach news staff
  Review stories to make sure they are fair and accurate before they go on the air.
  Ensuring adherence to journalistic and legal standards Mentor and guide the team

Salary: $58,000-$70,000 commensurate with experience.

Send resume to General Manager JENNY OLSZEWSKI by clicking here.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KCBS/KCAL-TV, Los Angeles, LA (listed 4/30/23)
WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 6/4/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
KATC-TV, Lafayette, LA (listed 7/2/23)
WNCT-TV, Greenville, NC (listed 5/21/23)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KTLA-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 5/29/23)
KRON-TV, San Francisco, CA (listed 7/2/23)
WDCW-TV, Washington DC (listed 6/11/23)
KGO-TV, San Francisco, CA (relisted 4/23/23)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, ND (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WNCN-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 5/21/23)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 5/29/23)
WKRN-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 5/14/23)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Special Projects EP, listed 6/4/23)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (AM EP, listed 5/14/23)
KVUE-TV, Austin, TX (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 7/2/23)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 7/2/23)
WXIX-TV Cincinnati, OH (EP, listed 5/29/23)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 5/21/23)
WLEX-TV, Lexington, KY listed 7/2/23)
KVUE-TV, Austin, TX (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCBD-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 6/11/23)
WCIA-TV, Champaign, IL (Digital EP, listed 5/29/23)
WKBT-TV, La Crosse, WI (relisted 4/23/23)
KRIS-TV, Corpus Christi, TX (listed 7/2/23)
KTVH-TV, Helena, MT (listed 7/2/23)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KCTV, Kansas City, MO (listed 5/13/23)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 6/11/23)
KOKI-TV, Tulsa, OK (listed 7/2/23)

More News Management Openings:

Listed 5/14/23:

Voice of America, Washington, DC (Standards Editor)
WMBD-TV, Peoria, IL (Assignment Manager)
WWTI-TV, Watertown, NY (Digital Content Manager)

Listed 5/7/23:

U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Multimedia News Manager)
U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Technical News Producer)

Obituaries:

Bohrman

DAVID BOHRMAN, an innovative television producer who started in local news in Los Angeles, and went on to many network jobs, including CNN, died this week of complications from hip surgery. He was 69. At CNN, he is credited with pioneering the “Magic Wall” which many, many broadcasters have copied. CNN aired this tribute to David. He also spent time at ABC News, where he created World News Now, worked at NBC and other places.

Krohlow

PAT KROHLOW, who held a wide variety of jobs for WLUK-TV in Green Bay before his 2010 retirement, died this week after a short illness. He was 76. He started at WLUK as a photojournalist, became assignment editor, news director, and later worked as the station’s marketing director. WLUK remembered him on air, while a more detailed obituary can be found here.

Murphy

CHACE MURPHY, a one-time news director for KBTX-TV in Bryan/College Station, TX, died this week. But he was better known in those parts for the 15 years he spent as the public address announcer for Texas A&M football and men’s basketball teams. He also worked in radio news before leaving broadcasting to become manager of public affairs for Atmos Energy. He was ND for KBTV from 2007-2008. His former station aired this story.

Names in the News:

KGTV (Scripps/ABC) in San Diego has promoted JAMES GORCOS from EP to Assistant ND. GM LEON CLARK told the staff.

Gibson

Former ND ALLISON GIBSON has been named Senior Editor/Business for Sonoma Media Investments. The company owns the North Bay Business Journal and The Press Democrat. Learn more about her new job here. Allison last graced these pages during her stint as ND for KWWL-TV in Waterloo, IA, after a long run at News 12 Long Island New Jersey.

Kurpius

University of Missouri Dean DAVID KURPIUS, a one-time news director in Macon, GA (WMGT-TV) has won the Scripps Howard-AEJMC Administrator of the Year Award.

And while we’re on the education beat, WES LOWERY has joined American University as an Associate Professor of Investigative Reporting.

General Manager News and Notes:

A TON of general manager changes this week:

At KDFW-TV (Fox owned) in Dallas, longtime GM KATHY SAUNDERS announced her retirement FOUR DAYS before her last day, which was Friday.

At WXIA-TV (NBC/Tegna owned) in Atlanta, another longtime GM, JOHN DEUSHANE posted his retirement news on Linkedin. He’ll leave in a month.

At WLTV (Univision owned) in Miami, ERIC GARCIA has been named President and General Manager.

At KTBC-TV (another FOX o-and-o) in Austin, TX, SUSIE DOUCETTE-PYLE will be the new GM, moving from Fox’s KRIV-TV in Houston where she was the general sales manager.

And Sinclair named TWO new general managers.

At KTUL-TV in Tulsa, MICHAEL LEWIS will be the new GM.

And at WSMH-TV in Flint/Saginaw/Bay City, MI, one time news director KEVIN DUNAWAY will take over this FOX affiliate. He’ll also oversee WEYI-TV (NBC) which Sinclair operates.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, July 2, 2023:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
WZDC-TV 4001 Nebraska Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016 **
WCCO-TV 90 S. 11th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St, Doral, FL 33178 **
KXTV 400 Broadway Sacramento, CA 95818
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane Las Vegas, NV 89101
WOOD-TV 120 College Ave. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503
WWMT-TV 590 West Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008
WAVE-TV 725 S. Floyd St. Louisville KY 40203
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St. Providence, RI 02904
KFTV 3239 W Ashlan Av. Fresno, CA 93722 **
WIVB-TV 2077 Elmwood Ave Buffalo, NY 14207
WATE-TV 1306 North Broadway Knoxville, TN 37917
KITV 801 So. King St. Honolulu, HI 96813
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WISC-TV 7025 Raymond Rd. Madison, WI 53719
WICS-TV 2680 E. Cook St. Springfield, IL 62703
WQAD-TV 3003 Park 16th Street Moline, IL 61265
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Avenue Altoona, PA 16602
KIMA-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima, WA 98901
KMIZ-TV 501 Business Loop 70 E., Columbia MO 65201
KQDS-TV 2001 London Road Duluth, MN 55812
WXXV-TV 14351 Hwy 49 N. Gulfport, MS 39503 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WKBP-TV 1705 Ash Street Suite 5 Ishpeming, MI 49849
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KMVT-TV 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd North, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Delta News 837 Washington Ave Greenville, MS 38701
KAEF-TV 540 E Street Eureka, CA 95501
KIEM-TV 5650 S Broadway St Eureka, CA 95503 (see ad above!)
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KNOP-TV 402. S. Dewey. North Platte NE 69101

**: Spanish language station

June 25, 2023

Thursday, June 29th, 2023 UPDATE:

Greetings:

A West Michigan news director, his Assistant ND, and TWO producers were apparently fired today over an ill-advised memo over news coverage of Pride events.

Tang

STANTON TANG, the ND for Nexstar’s WOOD-TV (NBC) in Grand Rapids, was dismissed today, according to this story from The Desk. Also dismissed were the station’s Assistant ND, AMY FOX, and two producers.

Tang had been ND there since late 2021 and earlier in his career ran the news department for WZZM-TV (ABC) in Grand Rapids. He also spent seven-plus years as an ND in Reno. Stanton’s also worked in Phoenix, Sacramento, and Las Vegas.

Veteran newsman STEVEN ACKERMANN will be the interim news director there, starting tomorrow, while the station searches for Tang’s replacement.

It’s been a busy week. We’ll have all the news in Sunday’s newsletter, though publication my be delayed by travel.

regards,

Rick Gevers

Wednesday, June 28th, 2023 UPDATE:

Greetings:

A big change in Phoenix where a long time news director is retiring…and his replacement has already been appointed. And we have information on streaming of the services Thursday night for longtime ND JOE SCHLAERTH.

Bannard

DOUG BANNARD, who’s been the VP/News for Fox’s KSAZ-TV in Phoenix for 26 years, announced his retirement today. He joined the station in 1990 as a producer, advanced to executive producer, assistant news director, and then ND. He announced his retirement today, and his replacement starts next week.

That, of course, is often the case when the replacement comes from within, as is happening at KSAZ.

Levi

STEVE LEVI will replace Doug as Vice President/News Director for FOX 10, as it is branded. He’s also a long time employee. Steve joined the station in 1994. He’s been an assignment editor, associate producer, producer and executive producer and has been the assistant news director for the last eight years. More details on both Doug’s sudden retirement and Steve’s ascension in this article.

Saunders

The changes in Phoenix are the latest in a number of immediate moves at large market FOX owned stations. Earlier this week, KATHY SAUNDERS announced her retirement as GM of FOX’s KDFW-TV in Dallas. She’s been there since 1997 and her last day will be….Friday. Kathy’s departure comes just two weeks after DENNIS WELSH‘s retirement as GM for WFLD-TV in Chicago. His last day is also Friday.

Schlaerth

Finally, details about a live video streaming of the funeral for JOE SCHLAERTH, news director for Gray’s WFIE-TV (NBC) in Evansville, who died last week.

The funeral is tomorrow, Thursday, June 29th, at 7:00 PM Eastern.

Details about how you can access the stream is at the bottom of this updated story about Joe, who was ND at WFIE for more than nine years, and also spent 30 years at WIVB-TV, ten as ND, in his hometown of Buffalo.

We’ll have all the week’s changes in our full newsletter sometime Sunday, possibly delayed by travel.

regards,

Rick Gevers

**** ***** ****

Greetings:

Our list of open news director jobs shrinks again this week as THREE jobs have been filled, and ONE opened up

That means our list of open jobs drops to 33. That ONE new opening is featured in a Paid Help Wanted ad.

Sadly, THREE obituaries this week, including ONE for a current ND and ONE for a current GM. Those are below.

To my knowledge, just ONE GM move this week.

And lots of quick items in Names in the News.

Finally, it was good to see many of you at the IRE Conference. in Orlando. A tip of the hat to Gray Television which sent more than 200 people to the conference, including many news directors, part of the total attendance of just under 1,400. Gray and several other groups also had recruiting booths there.

FOUR incumbents were re-elected to the Board of Directors, along with TWO newcomers to the board.

I was not elected but am grateful to those of you who encouraged me to run, offered kind words, and voted for me. Thanks.

Have a great week.

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists.

Reporters can book 15 mins with these via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also hosts media briefings and runs a free expert matching service that connects reporters to scientist-sources on deadline.

Experts available for Zoom interviews:

• June 27: Heat, Humidity, and Health (Dr. W. Larry Kenney, Penn State U.)
• July 13: 988 and suicide prevention (Dr. Emmy Betz, U. Colorado)
• July 26: Short-staffed nursing homes (Dr. Jasmine Travers, NYU
• Aug. 3: Home heat pumps & indoor air quality (Dr. Theresa Pistochini, UC Davis)

New expert videos available for download/use in stories:

• Food insecurity on the rise (Dr. Hilary Seligman, UCSF)
• Over-the-counter hearing aids (Dr. Nicholas Reed, Johns Hopkins U.)
• E-bikes (Dr. Jennifer Dill, Portland State U.)
• Urban forestry (Dr. Vivek Shandas, Portland State U.)

Newly Named News Directors:

Rosengard

WTIC-TV, Hartford, CT…DANA ROSENGARD has been promoted to news director for this Tegna owned FOX affiliate. He’s been the Assistant ND there for nine months. Dana’s interesting career has alternated between commercial TV and education for many years. At WTIC, he replaces RICHARD WASHINGTON III who announced in April he’d leave the station when his two year contract ended to try to move closer to family.

Cowan

WHIO-TV, Dayton, OH…an inter-Cox Media Group transfer sends JOE COWAN to this CBS affiliate as its next ND. COX EVP MARIAN PITTMAN sent out this note. Joe’s been the Managing Editor for Digital at Cox’s WSB-TV (ABC) in Atlanta. He’ll start in Dayton next month where he will replace LAURA EVANS who was also promoted: in her case, to ND for Cox’s KIRO-TV in Seattle.

KMID/KPEJ-TV, Midland/Odessa, TX…this Nexstar operated duopoly has hired a new ND. For reasons unknown to me, the full announcement will come sometime in July. We’ll share when it’s official. Whoever gets the job will replace TERRY WOOD, who left earlier this year to be the Assistant ND for Scripps WGBA-TV in Green Bay. Nexstar owns KMID (ABC) and provides services to Mission owned Fox affiliate KPEJ.

New News Director Opening:

Finnigan

KIEM-TV, Eureka, CA…MARK FINNIGAN has left this Imagicomm Communications owned operation after less than a year. He’s also worked in Los Angeles, Louisville, and Bakersfield. KIEM is an NBC affiliate.You can learn more about this opportunity in the Paid Help Wanted ad just below.

Paid Help Wanted Ad:

News Director, KIEM-TV, Eureka, CA:

Redwood News in beautiful Eureka, California is seeking a News Director.

California has a moderate climate, immense redwoods, the pacific ocean and everything outdoors. It’s a great place to start a news director position or wind down your career.

News Director experience preferred: however experienced executive producers or assistant news directors looking to move into the News Director role are also welcomed to apply.

It’s also a great place for someone who wants to restart their career. This is a hands on situation and not for someone who wants to sit in the office behind a desk.

We are looking for someone who:

• Can oversee the daily operations of the television newsroom.
  Is tech savvy with attention to website content and social media.
  Hire, train, and coach news staff
  Review stories to make sure they are fair and accurate before they go on the air.
  Ensuring adherence to journalistic and legal standards Mentor and guide the team

Salary: $58,000-$70,000 commensurate with experience.

Send resume to General Manager JENNY OLSZEWSKI by clicking here.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KCBS/KCAL-TV, Los Angeles, LA (listed 4/30/23)
WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 6/4/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
WNCT-TV, Greenville, NC (listed 5/21/23)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KTLA-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 5/29/23)
KIAH-TV, Houston, TX (AM/Special Projects EP, relisted 4/23/23)
WDCW-TV, Washington DC (listed 6/11/23)
KGO-TV, San Francisco, CA (relisted 4/23/23)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, ND (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WNCN-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 5/21/23)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 5/29/23)
WKRN-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 5/14/23)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Special Projects EP, listed 6/4/23)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (AM EP, listed 5/14/23)
KVUE-TV, Austin, TX (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WXIX-TV Cincinnati, OH (EP, listed 5/29/23)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 5/21/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCBD-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 6/11/23)
WCIA-TV, Champaign, IL (Digital EP, listed 5/29/23)
WKBT-TV, La Crosse, WI (relisted 4/23/23)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KCTV, Kansas City, MO (listed 5/13/23)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 6/11/23)

More News Management Openings:

Listed 6/11/23:

Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN (Director of Public Relations)

Listed 5/14/23:

Voice of America, Washington, DC (Standards Editor)
WMBD-TV, Peoria, IL (Assignment Manager)
WWTI-TV, Watertown, NY (Digital Content Manager)

Listed 5/7/23:

U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Multimedia News Manager)
U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Technical News Producer)

Listed 4/30/23:

WHAS-TV, Louisville, KY (Director of Digital Content)

Obituaries:

Schlaerth

Funeral services for WFIE-TV (Evansville, IN/Gray TV-NBC) ND JOE SCHLAERTH will be held Thursday at 7:00 PM at Methodist Temple in Evansville with a reception following. Joe died Wednesday, a month or so after he was diagnosed with a heart condition. He spent nine years as ND there and worked for 30 years at WIVB-TV in his native Buffalo, the last ten as ND. Joe is survived by his wife, VICKI, and twins, 15 years old AURORA and JOE.

Walker

DANNY WALKER, general manager of Tupelo’s WTVA-TV, died this morning (Sunday, June 25th) after a long illness. He was just 59 years old. Danny was named GM of this (now owned by Allen Media Broadcasting) NBC and ABC affiliate in 2020, after working at the station in sales. He also worked for another Tupelo station, for one in Jackson, MS, and owned his own advertising agency. Here’s the station’s report on his passing.

Smith

Another longtime Mississippi broadcaster died this week. DENNIS SMITH served more than 23 years as news director of Jackson’s WLBT-TV, which reported on his passing and career here. Dennis also worked in New Orleans and Lafayette, LA, as well as for another Jackson station. This long and interesting obituary includes how he shamed businesses and other locations for flying American flags that were in poor condition.

Names in the News:

No personnel moves in Names in the News this week, but a few quick items of note:

TWO stories this week on burnout in TV news. Poynter reported on one of them, while RTNDA has statistics from its annual survey.

Former CNN producer JOHN GRIFFIN was sentenced to more than 19 years in prison for luring a nine year old girl into sex acts.

There’s an interesting partnership between Gray’s WNDU-TV (NBC) in South Bend and the local newspaper, The South Bend Tribune.

And NBC’s CATHERINE KIM will be honored with the LOREN TOBIA LEADERSHIP AWARD at September’s RTDNA conference in Minneapolis.

General Manager News and Notes:

Hanson

MERRI HANSON moves within Scripps to become GM for KSTU-TV (FOX) in Salt Lake City. She’s been the GM for Scripps’ KIVI-TV (ABC) in Boise, ID, for the last 2 1/2 years. Merri is a one time anchor and reporter for another Idaho station before she moved into sales and marketing. More in this news release.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, June 25, 2023:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
WZDC-TV 4001 Nebraska Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016 **
WCCO-TV 90 S. 11th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St, Doral, FL 33178 **
KXTV 400 Broadway Sacramento, CA 95818
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane Las Vegas, NV 89101
WWMT-TV 590 West Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008
WAVE-TV 725 S. Floyd St. Louisville KY 40203
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St. Providence, RI 02904
KFTV 3239 W Ashlan Av. Fresno, CA 93722 **
WIVB-TV 2077 Elmwood Ave Buffalo, NY 14207
KOKI-TV 2625 S Memorial Dr. Tulsa, OK 74129
KITV 801 So. King St. Honolulu, HI 96813
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WISC-TV 7025 Raymond Rd. Madison, WI 53719
WICS-TV 2680 E. Cook St. Springfield, IL 62703
WQAD-TV 3003 Park 16th Street Moline, IL 61265
KHGI-TV 1078 25 Road Axtell, NE 68924
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Avenue Altoona, PA 16602
KIMA-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima, WA 98901
KMIZ-TV 501 Business Loop 70 E., Columbia MO 65201
KQDS-TV 2001 London Road Duluth, MN 55812
WIBW-TV 631 SW Commerce Place. Topeka, KS 66615
WBUP/WKBP-TV 1705 Ash Street Suite 5 Ishpeming, MI 49849
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KMVT-TV 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd North, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Delta News 837 Washington Ave Greenville, MS 38701
KAEF-TV 540 E Street Eureka, CA 95501
KIEM-TV 5650 S Broadway St Eureka, CA 95503 (see ad above!)
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KNOP-TV 402. S. Dewey. North Platte NE 69101

**: Spanish language station

June 18, 2023

Friday, June 23, 2023 UPDATE:

Greetings:

Very sad news this morning from Evansville.

Schlaerth

JOE SCHLAERTH, news director for Gray’s WFIE-TV (NBC), died Thursday night.

He’s been ND there since 2015 but spent 30 years at WIVB-TV in Buffalo in a variety of roles, the last ten as news director.

Gray’s VP of News Services, JAMES FINCH, sent this email to other Gray news directors..

Our thoughts and prayers to Joe’s family, friends, and colleagues at WFIE.

Sadly…

Rick Gevers

**** ***** ****

Greetings:

For the second consecutive week, TWO ND jobs were filled and just ONE job opened. Our list of open jobs remains at 35.

There are THREE Help Wanted ads, TWO of which are paid. We’ll explain why the third is free.

A rare flurry of GM changes this week, most in larger markets.

And FOUR items in Names in the News, including a new job for a longtime news executive and a revolt from within at a Michigan station after a staff memo about news coverage.

Finally, I hope to see many of you at this week’s IRE Conference in Orlando. (I’ll be the one shaking hands and kissing babies to drum up votes for my candidacy for the IRE Board of Directors.)

Have a great week.

SciLine, a philanthropically funded, free service for reporters, arranges 1-on-1, broadcast-quality interview opportunities with articulate scientists.

Reporters can book 15 mins with these via Zoom or request a SciLine interview clip for your use. SciLine also hosts media briefings and runs a free expert matching service that connects reporters to scientist-sources on deadline.

Experts available for Zoom interviews:

• June 21: Overdose prevention & naloxone (Dr. Brandon Marshall, Brown U.)
• June 27: Heat, Humidity, and Health (Dr. W. Larry Kenney, Penn State U.)
• July 13: 988 and suicide prevention (Dr. Emmy Betz, U. Colorado)
• July 26: Short-staffed nursing homes (Dr. Jasmine Travers, NYU
• Aug. 3: Home heat pumps & indoor air quality (Dr. Theresa Pistochini, UC Davis)

Media briefing, live and on the record:

• June 21: Reproductive health care access, ft. experts from: Ohio State U., UT Austin, and UCSF.

New expert videos available for download/use in stories:

• Food insecurity on the rise (Dr. Hilary Seligman, UCSF)
• Over-the-counter hearing aids (Dr. Nicholas Reed, Johns Hopkins U.)
• E-bikes (Dr. Jennifer Dill, Portland State U.)
• Urban forestry (Dr. Vivek Shandas, Portland State U.)

Newly Named News Directors:

Smith

WLEX-TV, Lexington, KY…JENNIFER SMITH will be the next news director for this Scripps owned NBC affiliate. She’s been the Assistant ND here and has twice served as interim ND. More in this note from GM ANDREW SHENKAN. She replaces BRIAN NEAL who will leave in August and explained his decision in this memo to staff. Brian told me a recent promotion for his wife influenced his decision.

Cleary

WBNG-TV, Binghamton, NY…after ten years of producing for two stations (WNEP-TV and WBRE-TV) in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton market, TANYA CLEARY gets her first ND job at this Gray TV owned CBS affiliate. Details in this memo from General Manager. ROBERT KRUMMENACKER. Tanya replaces ASTRID RESSLER who is leaving to join the Gray corporate recruiting team.

New News Director Opening:

Shriner

WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY…JENELLE SHRINER is leaving this Gray TV owned NBC affiliate after about 18 months as news director. You’ll learn WHY she’s leaving in this note that she sent to her fellow Gray news directors. WAVE was Jenelle’s third ND job with Gray, after stints at KOLD-TV (CBS) in Tucson and KPLC-TV (NBC) in Lake Charles, LA (though Raycom owned KPLC at the time before Gray acquired Raycom.)

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Managing Editor, WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL

WINK News, a leading television news station in Fort Myers, Florida, seeks a talented and experienced Managing Editor to join our dynamic team. If you desire to lead a high-performing newsroom, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

The Managing Editor is crucial in setting the content agenda and shaping daily news coverage. You will have the chance to showcase your editorial expertise by overseeing the production of 13+ hours of local news on weekdays. We are a fast-paced organization, and we need someone who thrives in a high-pressure environment and can effectively manage a team of reporters and producers.

Our resources and staff size will surprise you–120 journalists technically equipped to compete. Newsrooms are shrinking. WINK is expanding. We have exciting plans in the works. Collaborative opportunities exist with our company magazines and newspaper.

Here’s what we are looking for a take-charge individual to lead the day-to-day operations of the newsroom, set and prioritize the coverage agenda, and allocate resources accordingly. WINK managers lead, coach, teach and mentor the staff. We promise our colleagues WINK is a place for professional growth.

The best candidates will have and apply high journalistic standards, ethics, and practices. Plus, help maintain a positive, healthy, inclusive culture in the newsroom. Candidates must have 3 to 5 years of newsroom leadership experience in a broadcast news television operation.

Qualified candidates should apply by clicking here.

The hiring manager is Rich Garcia, WINK’s News Director.

No phone calls, please.

Executive Producer, WXIX-TV, Cincinnati, OH:

The #1 news station in Cincinnati is looking for its next great leader!

Cincy is a vibrant, amazing city. From sports like the red-hot Bengals to festivals almost every weekend to amazing museums, nightlife, and restaurants, Cincinnati rocks… and so does the news at Fox19!

We win with aggressive journalism, compelling storytelling, and high-energy newscasts. We are looking for an Executive Producer with a knack for showcasing and making newscasts sizzle! At least 4 years producing experience required.

Prior news management experience preferred.

Click here to learn more and apply.

Free Help Wanted Ad:

(Repeating this in the interest of domestic harmony.)

First, don’t get any ideas.

People are always asking for a free ad, and the answer is always no.

Always. Not fair to those who’ve supported this newsletter by paying.

But the answer is different when my wife asks.

Last person before her who asked said “But I’m a long time subscriber.” Yeah, but she’s a longer time subscriber.

The person who gets this job will report to my wife, KAREN BURNS, who is the Executive VP/External Relations for the Indianapolis Zoo.

And the person leaving the job (after ten years) is a long time TV type.

JUDY PALERMO is off to DC to become Chief Communications Officer for American Humane and Global Humane. Judy’s a former EP in Dallas and Indianapolis, who also worked in Columbus and Dayton, OH.

And the job?

Director of Public Relations, Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN:

Click here to learn more and apply.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KCBS/KCAL-TV, Los Angeles, LA (listed 4/30/23)
WATN-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 6/4/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
WNCT-TV, Greenville, NC (listed 5/21/23)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KTLA-TV, Los Angeles, CA (relisted 5/29/23)
KIAH-TV, Houston, TX (AM/Special Projects EP, relisted 4/23/23)
WDCW-TV, Washington DC (listed 6/11/23)
KGO-TV, San Francisco, CA (relisted 4/23/23)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, ND (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WNCN-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 5/21/23)
WXIN/WTTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 5/29/23)
WKRN-TV, Nashville, TN (listed 5/14/23)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Special Projects EP, listed 6/4/23)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (AM EP, listed 5/14/23)
KVUE-TV, Austin, TX (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WXIX-TV Cincinnati, OH (EP, listed 5/29/23, see ad above!)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 5/21/23)
KREM-TV, Spokane, WA (listed 4/30/23)
WLTX-TV, Columbia, SC (AM EP, listed 6/4/23)
WCBD-TV, Charleston, SC (listed 6/11/23)
WCIA-TV, Champaign, IL (Digital EP, listed 5/29/23)
WKBT-TV, La Crosse, WI (relisted 4/23/23)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KCTV, Kansas City, MO (listed 5/13/23)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (listed 6/11/23, see ad above!)

More News Management Openings:

Listed 6/11/23:

Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis, IN (Director of Public Relations)

Listed 5/14/23:

Voice of America, Washington, DC (Standards Editor)
WMBD-TV, Peoria, IL (Assignment Manager)
WWTI-TV, Watertown, NY (Digital Content Manager)

Listed 5/7/23:

U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Multimedia News Manager)
U. of Florida, Gainesville, FL (Technical News Producer)

Listed 4/30/23:

WHAS-TV, Louisville, KY (Director of Digital Content)

Names in the News:

Spessard

Longtime Oklahoma newsman TODD SPESSARD starts a new job tomorrow…a marketing role at an Oklahoma City company. Todd explained it in this note to me. He spent the last 12 years with Griffin there, first as ND for KWTV and then Corporate VP of Content for the company. He’s also been an ND in Tulsa (two stations), Wichita, and Columbia, MO, and worked in Kansas City and Grand Rapids, MI, where (full disclosure) he worked for me at WOOD-TV.

Speaking of WOOD-TV, news management at that Nexstar owned NBC affiliate is under fire from within for a staff memo about coverage of Pride activities. Two stories for you, the first from The Detroit Free-Press and the second from The Desk.

Speaking of Nexstar, THREE of its affiliates in top 15 markets will become CW network affiliates. Nexstar, of course, owns the CW.

Finally, veteran broadcast manager EMILY BARR offers her thoughts on the staff letter we shared with you a few weeks from Scripps CEO ADAM SYMSON. Adam outlined Scripps’ plan to reimagine local news coverage. Emily’s column is here, and if you missed Adam’s original post when we shared it originally, you can find it here. Both are worth your time.

General Manager News and Notes:

Longtime FOX executive DENNIS WELSH is retiring after 40 years in TV and 26 with FOX. For the last ten + years, he’s been the SVP and general manager for WFLD-TV in Chicago. More in this news release from the company. Dennis’s background is in sales and you’ll learn in that news release that he worked in a number of places before his first GM job at FOX’s WOFL-TV in Orlando.

In Cleveland, former ND DAVID HUGHES  gets his THIRD GM job within Gray, as he takes over WOIO/WUAB-TV (CBS/CW). He’s currently the GM for Gray’s WSAZ/WQCQ-TV in Charleston/Huntington, WV and previously ran WVIR-TV (NBC) in Charlottesville, WV. David first joined the company as ND for WDBJ-TV (CBS) in Roanoke, VA.

JOEL SWISHER will replace David as GM of WSAZ. He’s had sales management roles there since 2016.

Finally, STEFAN SCHELLHAS was promoted to GM for Sinclair’s WKRC-TV (CBS) in Cincinnati, replacing the retiring JON LAWHEAD.

Our List of Open News Director jobs:

Here’s our list of open ND jobs as of Sunday, June 18, 2023:

It’s unofficial, there may be others that are open, and some of these may have been filled. If you know of any in either category, please let me know: rick@rickgevers.com

WXIA-TV One Monroe Place NE Atlanta, GA 30324
WZDC-TV 4001 Nebraska Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20016 **
WCCO-TV 90 S. 11th Street Minneapolis, MN 55403
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St, Doral, FL 33178 **
KXTV 400 Broadway Sacramento, CA 95818
WTIC-TV 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06115
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane Las Vegas, NV 89101
WWMT-TV 590 West Maple St. Kalamazoo, MI 49008
WAVE-TV 725 S. Floyd St. Louisville KY 40203
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St. Providence, RI 02904
KFTV 3239 W Ashlan Av. Fresno, CA 93722 **
WIVB-TV 2077 Elmwood Ave Buffalo, NY 14207
KOKI-TV 2625 S Memorial Dr. Tulsa, OK 74129
WHIO-TV 1611 S Main St. Dayton, OH 45409
KITV 801 So. King St. Honolulu, HI 96813
KLEW-TV 2626 17th St, Lewiston, ID 83501
WISC-TV 7025 Raymond Rd. Madison, WI 53719
WICS-TV 2680 E. Cook St. Springfield, IL 62703
WQAD-TV 3003 Park 16th Street Moline, IL 61265
KHGI-TV 1078 25 Road Axtell, NE 68924
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Avenue Altoona, PA 16602
KIMA-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima, WA 98901
KMIZ-TV 501 Business Loop 70 E., Columbia MO 65201
KQDS-TV 2001 London Road Duluth, MN 55812
WIBW-TV 631 SW Commerce Place. Topeka, KS 66615
KMID/KPEJ-TV 1550 West I-20 Odessa TX 79763
WBUP/WKBP-TV 1705 Ash Street Suite 5 Ishpeming, MI 49849
WDTV 5 Television Dr. Bridgeport, WV 26330
WWNY-TV 120 Arcade St. Watertown, NY 13601
KGNS-TV 120 W. Del Mar Blvd. Laredo TX 78041
KMVT-TV 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd North, Twin Falls, ID 83301
Delta News 837 Washington Ave Greenville, MS 38701
KAEF-TV 540 E Street Eureka, CA 95501
KYOU-TV 820 West 2nd Street; Ottumwa, IA 52501
KNOP-TV 402. S. Dewey. North Platte NE 69101

**: Spanish language station