Rick Gevers & Associates

December 28, 2014

Monday, December 29, 2014 UPDATE:

Boyer

There will be no formal funeral for JIM BOYER, who died last Wednesday of esophageal cancer.  He was 68.

Click here to read the family’s suggestions for ways to celebrate his life.  The link also includes suggestions for a memorial gift and for contact information for survivors, including his wife JAN ALLEN, herself a former news director and station manager.

regards,

Rick Gevers

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Greetings:

This week’s report, as you might expect during a holiday week, is brief thought with some interesting items.

Sadly, one includes the death of longtime news director and general manager JIM BOYER, which we first reported to you last night. We have only a few new details but those are below.

There are TWO new news director openings with ONE new ND, bringing the list of openings to 27 stations. FOUR of those stations are running help wanted ads below, with another TWO ads for management openings at very strong stations.

Two veteran GMs (one a former ND) are on the move. That’s below, as well as a new EP in Portland, OR.

New News Director Openings:

Giesler

WACH-TV, Columbia, SC…JERRY GIESLER has left this Sinclair owned FOX affiliate after just three months as news director. Jerry told me he was returning to Ft. Wayne to be closer to family. He spent nine years in Ft. Wayne as the GM of a Granite-owned duopoly. Jerry’s been a GM in a number of markets, including San Francisco, worked in the online world for a while, spent seven years as a consultant for Magid, and also worked in Phoenix as an Assistant ND.

Ball

WFFT-TV, Ft. Wayne, IN…DAN BALL is leaving this Nexstar owned FOX affiliate to return to Palm Springs, CA, as an anchor. That job allows him to be closer to his daughter. Dan’s been both news director and anchor here, and the station is advertising for his replacement below. He’s been here for two years, previously anchored for almost five years for the NBC affiliate in Las Vegas, and worked in Palm Springs before that.  (This item was added to last week’s report late, so we’re repeating it for those who may have missed it.)  Learn more about this ND/Anchor opportunity in the paid ad below.

Newly Named News Directors:

Brown

WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL…we told you earlier this week about MATT BROWN‘s ascension to news director for this Scripps owned ABC affiliate. He’s been the interim ND there since both ND BILL McFARLAND and Assistant ND MICHELE MURRAY left on the same day in October. Matt’s had been the Assistant ND for Scripps’ KSHB-TV in Kansas City. He’s a former ND in Tulsa and Sherman, TX, and has worked in Austin, TX, and Wichita.  WFTS posted this story to its website.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director/Anchor, WFFT-TV, Ft. Wayne, IN:

If you are an experienced broadcast journalist with on-air and newsroom leadership experience, then we are interested in you. You must be a compelling on air anchor with an added ability to write the competitive and strategic master plan for the newsroom. This is a great opportunity for someone to join and lead a highly competitive and accomplished FOX newscast that has earned four Emmy nominations and twice awarded Best Newscast.

The successful candidate must have an understanding of local news, as well as the ability to coach reporters to be enterprising with their story generation, as well as compelling and relevant with their content. Must have the ability to effectively deliver product on multi-media platform and make it relevant to the next generation of news viewers. This is a unique opportunity to take an award winning product to the next level. Solid news judgment, great communication skills and exceptional leadership are a requirement.

Fort Wayne is located in northeast Indiana and is the second largest city in Indiana and the 76th largest city in Country. The Fort Wayne market is an extraordinary place to live and work, offering affordable living and an active lifestyle. Fort Wayne has been honored with several awards for quality of life and is a multiple winner of the All American City Award.

Please send resumes and support materials to:

WFFT Fort Wayne
Attn: Bill Ritchhart
3707 Hillegas Road
Fort Wayne IN 46807

email: Britchhart@wfft.com

Nexstar Broadcasting is an equal opportunity employer.

Assignment Manager, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

10TV News, Central Ohio’s News Leader, seeks an Assignment Manager to plan and drive hard news coverage for the number one station in Central Ohio.

The successful candidate will be responsible for day-to-day news coverage, executing enterprise coverage, and long-range news planning. Must have exceptional news judgment, be extremely resourceful, and make enterprising a priority. Must be able to manage assignment editors, assist crews with computer assisted reporting skills, and own breaking news utilizing satellite and live trucks, and helicopter.

The successful candidate will have excellent communication skills coupled with the ability to work effectively under pressure; strong social media skills are preferred. This position requires at least three years experience in a television newsroom.

Qualified candidates may apply online at www.dispatchbroadcast.com.

DISPATCH BROADCAST GROUP IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
WE ARE A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE.

News Director, WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY:

Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. is searching for a dynamic and forward thinking News Director to lead our local news operation at NewsChannel 9 WSYR-TV, the ABC affiliate in Syracuse, NY.

Serious candidates must have a proven track record of success of developing and coaching talent, consistent execution of fiercely competitive product, strategic thinking and planning, high ethical standards and effective newsroom management. Must have the ability to effectively deliver product on multi-media platform and make it relevant to the next generation of news viewers. This is a unique opportunity to take an award winning product to the next level.

To be considered, you must have a minimum of 5 years experience as a news manager and more than 10 years experience in a news operation. Prior experience with on-line and social media is required. A degree in journalism is preferred.

You need to apply online at the Nexstar job site .

Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

News Director, KCBD-TV, Lubbock, TX:

The dominant number one station on the South Plains has an opening for a news director to lead this award winning news department.

The winning candidate will be a passionate, proven leader capable of recruiting, motivating, teaching, mentoring, and retaining a diverse newsroom. The news director will have the challenge of covering a regional population of over 350,000 people. Lubbock is the 11th largest city in the state of Texas and home to Texas Tech University.

The news director will oversee the content and production of 26 ½ hours of news each week and work directly with the longest running anchor team in the country. The news director will also be responsible for content produced on station website and digital platforms.

We are looking for a visionary with demonstrated skills and experience as a manager in local television news who also has the desire to live in the “friendliest city in the country.”

Apply at this link.

News Director, WALB-TV, Albany, GA:

WALB-TV, the dominant NBC/ABC news leader in Albany, Georgia, is looking for a News Content Director to lead our award winning news department.

Albany is the largest city in Southwest Georgia and offers great local restaurants, mild weather and lots of outdoor activities centered around the Flint River. The city is home to the Parks at Chehaw wildlife preserve and the Flint Riverquarium, and is just a three hour drive from the beautiful beaches of Panama City Beach, FL.

The successful candidate will be a passionate, proven leader, capable of recruiting, motivating, teaching, mentoring, and retaining a diverse newsroom.

Candidate should have examples of creative approaches to executing an established news brand, as well as experience managing people, financial, technical resources.

The News Director is responsible for providing strategic direction for daily news coverage, as well as working closely with the General Manager on long range planning, special news coverage, and station projects.

WALB’s newsroom is a successful blend of veteran reporters and anchors, as well as up-and-coming Multi-Media and Digital Journalists.

The News Director will oversee a progressive newsroom that utilizes the latest technology in news gathering, and includes an aggressive digital news operation.

Candidates should have at least five years experience in newsroom leadership roles. Strong communication and organizational skills are a must.

A degree in Mass Communication or Journalism is preferred. WALB is part of Raycom Media.

Please submit resume and application by clicking here.

EOE-M/F/D/V

Executive Producer, WFAA-TV, Dallas, TX:

We are seeking an Executive Producer who will take the editorial lead each day and develop multi-platform content that succeed on air and on digital. This individual will manage, coach, and motivate a team of producers, writers, reporters, anchors, and photojournalists who are among the best in the business. The Executive Producer is responsible for the overall content of assigned newscasts, manages all aspects of breaking news, social engagement, and ensures the product stays on brand. Effective communication and decision making under daily deadline pressure are a must. The Executive Producer must have strong ethics, a solid producing background, a desire and ability to win the day, and be an exceptional troubleshooter. This individual must be able to generate unique content, and develop and produce specials as required. The EP will also work closely with other news managers and the News Director to implement winning strategies for each newscast.

We are seeking a candidate with the following:

Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field.
Must have five or more years producing experience in a major television market.
Must be able to effectively manage people & act decisively under pressure.
Must know news and what is important to the community.
Must have social media knowledge and a digital footprint.
Must have technical expertise to booth live newscasts and troubleshoot problems
Must perform administrative duties including scheduling, performance reviews, training of new staff, and provide critical feedback as needed.

RECRUITER:

Human Resources
214-977-6393
humanresources@wfaa.com

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WBZ-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/9/14)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (new listing this week)
KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO (new listing this week)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/30/14)
KSLA-TV, Shreveport, LA (relisted 12/14/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA (relisted 11/1/14)
WFAA-TV, Dallas, TX (listed 12/21/14, see ad above!)
WFXT-TV, Boston, MA (new listing this week)
WUSA-TV, Washington, DC (TWO openings, listed 11/21/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/9/14)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/1/14)
KTXL-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (Morning EP, listing revised 11/30/14)
WTNH-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (Digital EP, listed 10/26/14)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI, (AM EP, PM EP & Spec. Projects, relisted 10/11/14)
WSPA-TV, Greenville/Spartanburg, SC (AM EP, listed 10/11/14)
WIAT-TV, Birmingham, AL (listed 11/1/14)
WGHP-TV, Greensboro/High Point, NC (Dayside EP, relisted 10/26/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/16/14)
WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY (listed 12/14/14)
WMTW-TV, Portland, ME (AM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WCYB-TV, Tri-Cities, TN (relisted 10/11/14)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listed 11/16/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

Central Florida News 13, Orlando, FL (relisted 11/16/14)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (new listing this week, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WFXT-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/1/14)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (relisted 10/26/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA: (relisted 11/1/14)

Obituaries:

Boyer

I’m told it could be Monday or Tuesday before funeral arrangements are finalized for JIM BOYER, who died Wednesday after a short bout with cancer. He retired in 2012 as GM of KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City. Jim was also a GM in Portland, OR, and Des Moines, and a news director in Seattle and New Orleans, where he worked for nine years at WWL-TV, four as ND. Earlier stops in her career include Philadelphia, Baltimore, and York, PA. A very brief item was posted to the KFOR-TV website, Our report yesterday shared this story from WWL-TV.

When the arrangements are finalized, I’ll update my website.

Situations Wanted:

We offer a free situations wanted ad to news managers who are out of work and looking for a new opportunity. If you’d like to state your case to a well targeted audience, email me an item (max. 150 words). You may include a link to a website, an email address, and a photo. You must include your name. I’ll run it for one week. I don’t represent or endorse those listed, but merely trying to help.

Names in the News…and other things:

JODIE PIETRUCHA joins KATU-TV in Portland, OR, as the morning executive producer. She’d been a producer at WXIN-TV in Indianapolis and previously worked in South Bend.

General Manager News:

Two longtime General Managers will take over at two stations recently acquired by Hearst. HANK PRICE will move from the company’s WXII-TV in Winston-Salem to WVTM-TV in Birmingham, AL. And TIM MORRISSEY will lead WJCL-TV in Savannah, GA. It’s a return to Hearst for Tim, who once served as ND of the Hearst station in Milwaukee, WISN-TV. Tim most recently was GM for WCNC-TV in Charlotte. More on these moves and both men’s background in this news release.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

If you know of any additions/deletions/updates, please email me at: rick@rickgevers.com

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Saturday, December 27, 2014.

WPIX-TV 220 E. 42nd Street New York NY 10017
KWHY-TV 4975 W. Pico Blvd Los Angeles,CA 90019 *
KOMO-TV 140 Fourth Ave. North Seattle WA 98109
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMGH-TV 123 Speer Blvd. Denver CO 80203
KSDK-TV 1000 Market St. St. Louis MO 63101
KGTV 4600 Air Way San Diego CA 92101
WCMH-TV 3165 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus OH 43202
WHBQ-TV 485 South Highland Memphis TN 38111
WGHP-TV 2005 Francis St. High Point NC 27263
WBIR-TV 1513 Hutchison Ave Knoxville TN 37917
WEAR-TV 4990 Mobile Highway Pensacola FL 32506
WOWK-TV 555 Fifth Ave. Huntington WV 25701
WACH-TV 1400 Pickens St. Columbia SC 29201
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St. East Syracuse, NY 13057 (see ad above!)
KFSM-TV 485 South Highland Ft. Smith AR 72901
WMBF-TV 918 Frontage Road East, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
WTAJ-TV 5000 6th Ave. Altoona, PA 16603
WFFT-TV 3707 Hillegas Rd. Ft. Wayne IN 46807 (see ad above!)
WDAZ-TV 2220 S. Washington Grand Forks, ND 52801
KCBD-TV 485 South Highland Lubbock TX 79404 (see ad above!)
KTIV-TV 3135 Floyd Blvd. Sioux City IA 51108
WALB-TV 1709 Stuart Ave. Albany, GA 31707 (see ad above!)
WVVA-TV 3052 Big Laurel Highway, Bluefield WV 24701
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV 5956 Smith Hill Road Utica NY 13502
KAIT-TV 472 CR 766 Jonesboro AR 72401
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

December 22, 2014

Saturday, December 27, 2014 UPDATE:

Jim Boyer

I’m sorry to report the passing of longtime broadcaster JIM BOYER, who died Wednesday.

WWL-TV in New Orleans, where Jim worked for nine years, four as news director, posted this online obituary late Friday night. As of this posting, the story has few details about his passing but provides a lengthy recap of his life and career.

Jim retired in 2012 as VP/GM of KFOR-TV in Oklahoma City. He’d been a GM in Portland, OR, and Des Moines, was a news director in Seattle as well as New Orleans, and also worked in Philadelphia, Baltimore, and York, PA.

He’s survived by his wife and two children. Funeral arrangements are unknown at this time.

I’ll post later articles here over the weekend, so check back for more details.

regards,

Rick Gevers

Tuesday, December 23, 2014 UPDATE:

Brown

One of the Scripps’ news director openings has been filled with the news that MATT BROWN will be the next ND for WFTS-TV, the ABC affiliate in Tampa, FL.

He’s been the interim ND there since both ND BILL McFARLAND and Assistant ND MICHELE MURRAY left the station on the same day in October.

Matt most recently has been the Assistant ND for Scripps’ KSHB-TV in Kansas City. He’s a former ND in Tulsa and Sherman, TX, and has worked in Austin, TX, and Wichita.

Here’s the link to the story the company posted on its website.

One other note…the FOX affiliate in Ft. Wayne, IN, is looking for a news director/anchor. I updated my website with a paid ad for the position, which you can check out here.

More in the next edition of the full newsletter, which may or may not be published this weekend!

Happy holidays!

Monday, December 22, 2014 UPDATE:

We updated last night’s edition to add ONE new news director opening (technically a news director/anchor position) in Ft. Wayne, IN. Details (and a paid ad) are below.

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Greetings:

Here’s your week-before-the-holiday’s newsletter. Depending on developments, I may take a break next week…but will certainly let you know about any significant changes.

I know of THREE people who are pretty busy this holiday season..they’re getting ready to take new news director jobs. And there are FOUR (updated) new openings which provide opportunities for someone else to move up.

My list shows 27 (updated) stations with ND openings. FOUR (updated) of those stations are running help wanted ads below. And there are THREE other ads for a variety of positions.

Be sure to check out Names in the News below. You’ll see a story about a New York News Director whose home was destroyed by fire. We’ll tell you about FOUR local stations who won duPont Awards, while the broadcast networks won a total of ZERO. We have more about the departure of Tribune’s Senior VP/News, and more.

Enjoy the holidays, travel safe, and we’ll see you next year.

New News Director Openings:

Miles

WMBF-TV, Myrtle Beach, FL…we always like to see news people promoted to GM, so congratulations to SARAH MILES. She’s been promoted to General Manager for this Raycom Media owned NBC affiliate. She’s been the ND there since 2010 and worked for Raycom’s WAVE-TV in Louisville for eight years. Sarah’s also worked in Evansville and Peoria.

Ball

WFFT-TV, Ft. Wayne, IN…is looking for a News Director/Anchor to replace DAN BALL, who has been the ND/Anchor there for the past two years.   Dan’s taking a morning anchor position in California to be closer to his daughter. This FOX affiliate is owned by Nexstar.  You can learn more about this opening in the paid help wanted ad below.

Hobby

WALB-TV, Albany, GA…DAWN HOBBY is changing careers and will become a realtor when she leaves this Raycom Media station after her replacement is named. She’s been ND for almost two years, but spent almost 20 years in the market as an anchor/reporter, most of it at WALB. She left for five years to launch the news department for WFXL-TV, the FOX affiliate in Albany, but returned to WALB. Learn more about this opportunity in the paid ad below.

KAIT-TV, Jonesboro, AR…HATTON WEEKS is leaving to become ND for another Raycom station, WLBT-TV in Jackson, MS. More on that below.

And while they are not new openings, please check out the ads below for the ND openings at WSYR-TV in Syracuse, NY, and KCBD-TV in Lubbock, TX.

Newly Named News Directors:

Weeks

WLBT-TV, Jackson, MS…HATTON WEEKS moves from one Raycom Media station to another as he becomes the next ND for this NBC affiliate. He’s been the ND for Raycom’s KAIT-TV in Jonesboro, AR, since 2008. Hatton first joined KAIT in 1996, left the business for a while in 1999, and returned to the station as Assistant ND in 2006. At WLBT, he replaces WILSON STRIBLING who remains at the station but is returning to his morning anchor role.

Ritter

WBTW-TV, Myrtle Beach, SC…DANA BROWN RITTER has been named ND for this Media General owned CBS affiliate. She’s been an EP for (as of Friday) another Media General station, WAVY-TV in Norfolk. She’s also worked for the CBS News Washington Bureau, in Pittsburgh and Roanoke, as well as an earlier stint in Norfolk. Dana replaces STEVE KORIOTH who left the station in August after two years as ND. He’s now the interim ND at Quincy’s WVVA-TV in Bluefield, WV. He previously worked for Quincy.

KTLM-TV, McAllen, TX…MIGUELANGEL LOPEZ has been promoted to news director for this Telemundo o-and-o, He’s been the EP here and previously worked in Miami and Puerto Rico. Miguelangel replaces JUAN FRANCISCO COBOS who became a correspondent for Telemundo based in McAllen. More from Mediamoves.com.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WSYR-TV, Syracuse, NY:

Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. is searching for a dynamic and forward thinking News Director to lead our local news operation at NewsChannel 9 WSYR-TV, the ABC affiliate in Syracuse, NY.

Serious candidates must have a proven track record of success of developing and coaching talent, consistent execution of fiercely competitive product, strategic thinking and planning, high ethical standards and effective newsroom management. Must have the ability to effectively deliver product on multi-media platform and make it relevant to the next generation of news viewers. This is a unique opportunity to take an award winning product to the next level.

To be considered, you must have a minimum of 5 years experience as a news manager and more than 10 years experience in a news operation. Prior experience with on-line and social media is required. A degree in journalism is preferred.

You need to apply online at the Nexstar job site .

Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

News Director/Anchor, WFFT-TV, Ft. Wayne, IN:

If you are an experienced broadcast journalist with on-air and newsroom leadership experience, then we are interested in you. You must be a compelling on air anchor with an added ability to write the competitive and strategic master plan for the newsroom. This is a great opportunity for someone to join and lead a highly competitive and accomplished FOX newscast that has earned four Emmy nominations and twice awarded Best Newscast.

The successful candidate must have an understanding of local news, as well as the ability to coach reporters to be enterprising with their story generation, as well as compelling and relevant with their content. Must have the ability to effectively deliver product on multi-media platform and make it relevant to the next generation of news viewers. This is a unique opportunity to take an award winning product to the next level. Solid news judgment, great communication skills and exceptional leadership are a requirement.

Fort Wayne is located in northeast Indiana and is the second largest city in Indiana and the 76th largest city in Country. The Fort Wayne market is an extraordinary place to live and work, offering affordable living and an active lifestyle. Fort Wayne has been honored with several awards for quality of life and is a multiple winner of the All American City Award.

Please send resumes and support materials to:

WFFT Fort Wayne
Attn: Bill Ritchhart
3707 Hillegas Road
Fort Wayne IN 46807

email: Britchhart@wfft.com

Nexstar Broadcasting is an equal opportunity employer.

News Director, KCBD-TV, Lubbock, TX:

The dominant number one station on the South Plains has an opening for a news director to lead this award winning news department.

The winning candidate will be a passionate, proven leader capable of recruiting, motivating, teaching, mentoring, and retaining a diverse newsroom. The news director will have the challenge of covering a regional population of over 350,000 people. Lubbock is the 11th largest city in the state of Texas and home to Texas Tech University.

The news director will oversee the content and production of 26 ½ hours of news each week and work directly with the longest running anchor team in the country. The news director will also be responsible for content produced on station website and digital platforms.

We are looking for a visionary with demonstrated skills and experience as a manager in local television news who also has the desire to live in the “friendliest city in the country.”

Apply at this link.

News Director, WALB-TV, Albany, GA:

WALB-TV, the dominant NBC/ABC news leader in Albany, Georgia, is looking for a News Content Director to lead our award winning news department.

Albany is the largest city in Southwest Georgia and offers great local restaurants, mild weather and lots of outdoor activities centered around the Flint River. The city is home to the Parks at Chehaw wildlife preserve and the Flint Riverquarium, and is just a three hour drive from the beautiful beaches of Panama City Beach, FL.

The successful candidate will be a passionate, proven leader, capable of recruiting, motivating, teaching, mentoring, and retaining a diverse newsroom.

Candidate should have examples of creative approaches to executing an established news brand, as well as experience managing people, financial, technical resources.

The News Director is responsible for providing strategic direction for daily news coverage, as well as working closely with the General Manager on long range planning, special news coverage, and station projects.

WALB’s newsroom is a successful blend of veteran reporters and anchors, as well as up-and-coming Multi-Media and Digital Journalists.

The News Director will oversee a progressive newsroom that utilizes the latest technology in news gathering, and includes an aggressive digital news operation.

Candidates should have at least five years experience in newsroom leadership roles. Strong communication and organizational skills are a must.

A degree in Mass Communication or Journalism is preferred. WALB is part of Raycom Media.

Please submit resume and application by clicking here.

EOE-M/F/D/V

Executive Producer, WFAA-TV, Dallas, TX:

We are seeking an Executive Producer who will take the editorial lead each day and develop multi-platform content that succeed on air and on digital. This individual will manage, coach, and motivate a team of producers, writers, reporters, anchors, and photojournalists who are among the best in the business. The Executive Producer is responsible for the overall content of assigned newscasts, manages all aspects of breaking news, social engagement, and ensures the product stays on brand. Effective communication and decision making under daily deadline pressure are a must. The Executive Producer must have strong ethics, a solid producing background, a desire and ability to win the day, and be an exceptional troubleshooter. This individual must be able to generate unique content, and develop and produce specials as required. The EP will also work closely with other news managers and the News Director to implement winning strategies for each newscast.

We are seeking a candidate with the following:

Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field.
Must have five or more years producing experience in a major television market.
Must be able to effectively manage people & act decisively under pressure.
Must know news and what is important to the community.
Must have social media knowledge and a digital footprint.
Must have technical expertise to booth live newscasts and troubleshoot problems
Must perform administrative duties including scheduling, performance reviews, training of new staff, and provide critical feedback as needed.

RECRUITER:

Human Resources
214-977-6393
humanresources@wfaa.com

Executive Producer, WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY:

News 4 is seeking a top Executive Producer who loves to live news! A qualified applicant will be an experienced Executive Producer or Special Projects Producer or the best producer in your shop, who is a great writer and wants to help lead a team of the some of the strongest news people in the business.

You must be able to explain and then sustain our news vision. Some additional job requirements include; knowledge of graphics-use to enhance the value to our audience, know how to showcase a newscast and the ability to lead and enhance the performance of producers, reporters and anchors.

The ideal candidate will understand, use and be able to teach the value of social media and digital content. Great judgment and ethics along with the ability to maintain a flexible work schedule will contribute to your success in this position.

Education/Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, TV/film or the equivalent and at least 5 years experience in television or radio broadcast/production.

If you know how to bring value to viewers, love investigative journalism, understand the importance of weather and can work well under pressure, this may be the job for you!

WIVB/WNLO is a LIN Media station. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, and offer competitive salaries and wages, and a standard benefit package that includes a 401K plan and medical and dental plans.

To apply online – click here.

EOE/MINORITIES/FEMALES/VETERANS/DISABLED

Promotion Manager, WTTV, Indianapolis, IN:

WTTV, a Tribune Broadcasting station is looking for a Promotion Manager to assist the Creative Services Director in all aspects of promotion and marketing for the station.

The ideal candidate will supervise the on-air writer/producers and is responsible for promotion production technologies as well as writing, producing and editing of all on-air promotional materials.

The successful candidate will assist Creative Services Director with the development of concepts and strategies for selected programming, including formulating a marketing strategy, creating themes, selecting media, assigning facilities and personnel, and coordinating all elements needed to produce effective advertising campaigns while working closely with news managers and reporters to effectively promote local news with topical and image promotion.

This position requires an undergraduate degree or equivalent related experience with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in local television or ad agency. To apply online click here.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WBZ-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/9/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/30/14)
KSLA-TV, Shreveport, LA (relisted 12/14/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA (relisted 11/1/14)
WFAA-TV, Dallas, TX (new listing this week, see ad above!)
WUSA-TV, Washington, DC (TWO openings, listed 11/21/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/9/14)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/1/14)
KTXL-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (Morning EP, listing revised 11/30/14)
WTNH-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (Digital EP, listed 10/26/14)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI, (AM EP, PM EP & Spec. Projects, relisted 10/11/14)
WSPA-TV, Greenville/Spartanburg, SC (AM EP, listed 10/11/14)
WIAT-TV, Birmingham, AL (listed 11/1/14)
WGHP-TV, Greensboro/High Point, NC (Dayside EP, relisted 10/26/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/16/14)
WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY (listed 12/14/14, see ad above!)
WMTW-TV, Portland, ME (AM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WCYB-TV, Tri-Cities, TN (relisted 10/11/14)
WCTI-TV, Greenville/New Bern, NC (listed 8/31/14)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listed 11/16/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

Central Florida News 13, Orlando, FL (relisted 11/16/14)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WFXT-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/1/14)
KIRO-TV, Seattle, WA (relisted 10/11/14)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (relisted 10/26/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA: (relisted 11/1/14)

Obituaries:

EMERSON STONE, a longtime executive at CBS News, died this week at the age of 86. He began in radio before moving into television. The network offered this obituary on its website.

Situations Wanted:

We offer a free situations wanted ad to news managers who are out of work and looking for a new opportunity. If you’d like to state your case to a well targeted audience, email me an item (max. 150 words). You may include a link to a website, an email address, and a photo. You must include your name. I’ll run it for one week. I don’t represent or endorse those listed, but merely trying to help.

Names in the News…and other things:

Two Tampa stations were among four local news operations honored this week with Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Awards. WFTS-TV and WTSP-TV in Tampa were joined by KPNX-TV in Phoenix and WLTX-TV in Columbia, SC. There were 14 winners, none from the three broadcast network news operations. The news release is here, and you can click here to read summaries of each of the winners and links to the award winning work.

A Long Island fireman remains in critical condition after suffering injuries while fighting a fire at the home of WCBS-TV VP/News DAVID FRIEND. JOSEPH STANFORD, a volunteer fireman with 17 years service, fell through a hole in the floor into the basement. The fire began about 4:00 AM Friday morning. David and his wife were not home at the time. Click here to watch the station’s report on the fire.

Green

We told you late Friday night that KATHERINE GREEN is stepping down as Senior VP/News for Tribune Media after seven months on the job. I spoke with Katherine over the weekend and she told me the exhaustive travel demands of the job were too much for her family, which includes two young daughters. Before joining Tribune, Katherine worked at CNN, was an ND in Washington and Baltimore, and previously worked in New York. Tampa, Miami and Jacksonville, FL, where she began her career as a reporter.

Frank

KELLY FRANK joins WGCL-TV in Atlanta as Senior Managing Editor, Broadcast, Digital, and Social. It’s a new position for this CBS affiliate. Kelly will manage content across all of our platforms: television, digital and social media. She won’t have to move: she’s spent the last six years in Atlanta, first working for CNN, and then freelancing while working on a masters’ in Social Media. She’s also worked in Washington, Phoenix, Milwaukee, and Columbus, OH. There’s a lot more to her background, as you’ll learn in this memo from WGCL ND LARRY PERRET.

General Manager News:

BROOKE SPECTORSKY will retire next year as GM of Gannett’s WKYC-TV in Cleveland. There may not be a lot of changes made by his successor, WKYC Station Manager MICKI BYRNES. Brooke and Micki are husband and wife.  She was promotion manager at the station before being promoted to station manager last March.  The couple was married when they joined the station in 1997.

CHRIS GEIGER has left Tribune’s WTIC-TV in Hartford after seven months as GM. He’d previously worked as a GM for Sinclair’s stations in Syracuse.

WSET-TV (Lynchburg/Roanoke, VA) General Manager RANDY SMITH is leaving the station after almost 16 years to become Executive Vice President of Liberty University. Randy previously worked as the GM for WSLS-TV in the same market.

Speaking of the same market, JOSEPH McNAMARA has been named VP/GM of WFXR-WWCW-TV in Roanoke. The stations are owned by Nexstar. He’s previously been a GM in Honolulu and Binghamton, NY.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

If you know of any additions/deletions/updates, please email me at: rick@rickgevers.com

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, December 21, 2014.

WPIX-TV 220 E. 42nd Street New York NY 10017
KWHY-TV 4975 W. Pico Blvd Los Angeles,CA 90019 *
WFTS-TV 4045 N. Himes Ave. Tampa FL 33607
KOMO-TV 140 Fourth Ave. North Seattle WA 98109
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMGH-TV 123 Speer Blvd. Denver CO 80203
KSDK-TV 1000 Market St. St. Louis MO 63101
KGTV 4600 Air Way San Diego CA 92101
WCMH-TV 3165 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus OH 43202
WHBQ-TV 485 South Highland Memphis TN 38111
WGHP-TV 2005 Francis St. High Point NC 27263
WBIR-TV 1513 Hutchison Ave Knoxville TN 37917
WEAR-TV 4990 Mobile Highway Pensacola FL 32506
WOWK-TV 555 Fifth Ave. Huntington WV 25701
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St. East Syracuse, NY 13057 (see ad above!)
KFSM-TV 485 South Highland Ft. Smith AR 72901
WMBF-TV 918 Frontage Road East, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
WFFT-TV 3707 Hillegas Road Ft. Wayne IN 46807
WTAJ-TV 5000 6th Ave. Altoona, PA 16603
WDAZ-TV 2220 S. Washington Grand Forks, ND 52801
KCBD-TV 485 South Highland Lubbock TX 79404 (see ad above!)
KTIV-TV 3135 Floyd Blvd. Sioux City IA 51108
WALB-TV 1709 Stuart Ave. Albany, GA 31707 (see ad above!)
WVVA-TV 3052 Big Laurel Highway, Bluefield WV 24701
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV 5956 Smith Hill Road Utica NY 13502
KAIT-TV 472 CR 766 Jonesboro AR 72401
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

December 15, 2014

December 19, 2014 UPDATE:

Green

A shocker tonight from Tribune Media as Senior VP of News KATHERINE GREEN leaves the company after just seven months on the job.

In an email sent to Tribune’s news directors, she cited family and travel behind the decision.

Katherine joined Tribune in April after six years at CNN. When she left she was Senior Vice President/Managing Editor of the HLN Network.

Katherine spent nine years as an ND in Washington, and two years as a news director in Baltimore, after beginning her career as a reporter in Jacksonville, FL.  She’s also worked in New York, Tampa, and Miami.

I’ll hope to have more on this surprising move in our full report later this weekend.

regards,

Rick Gevers

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

Greetings:

TWO new news directors and ONE new opening in this week’s later-than-I-wish-it-was report.

That leaves, by my count, 25 stations looking for new news directors.

TWO of those openings are among the FIVE paid help wanted ads this week, including a rare ad for a promotion manager. That may not be YOUR goal, but I bet you know someone who would appreciate hearing about it.

We have funeral and memorial information for a legendary anchor who died this week. That’s below, along with lots of Names in the News and a big promotion for a ND turned GM.

Also this week, information about the next Kneeland Project seminar.

The Kneeland Project Accepting Applications Now

Apply today!

The Kneeland Project is accepting applications for their March 4-7 session in Austin, Texas.

Thanks to Kneeland’s generous funders, this opportunity is nearly free for 18 selected news directors. The Kneeland Project pays for all tuition costs as well as hotel and several meals. Participants cover only their transportation and a few meals — Kneeland takes care of the rest.

Apply now by clicking here.

“The Kneeland Project was a life-changing experience. It was, by far, the best training I’ve ever received during my broadcasting career.” – Kerri Cavanaugh, Fox 59 news director, Indianapolis.

In a recent survey of Kneeland Fellows, 100% reported they still regularly use lessons learned at Kneeland, believe that time spent at Kneeland improved their career and said they have recommended Kneeland to a friend or colleague.

This spring’s participants will be joined by some of the best and brightest leaders in the industry, but they won’t provide didactic, one-way lectures. On the contrary. Kneeland is seeking applications from news directors with high-level expertise, insight, and experience to make this a truly unique opportunity.

Most importantly, journalists will leave the program with a solid plan to guide their leadership decisions starting the day they return to their newsroom. This isn’t theoretical information that news managers will put on a shelf and neglect. Every participant will walk away with concrete action items to implement immediately that will make a difference in their station…and their life.

Click here for more information and to apply. Only 18 news directors will be selected for this program. Apply today!

New News Director Openings:

WGHP-TV, Greensboro/High Point, NC…KAREN KOUTSKY is headed to Charlotte as ND for Fox’s WJZY/WMYT-TV in Charlotte. Karen’s been ND here for 14 years. Much more on her move below.

Newly Named News Directors:

Koutsky

WJZY/WMYT-TV, Charlotte, NC…as mentioned above, KAREN KOUTSKY will be the next ND for this FOX o-and-o. It’s a return to FOX for Karen, who worked for the company for eight years when it owned WGHP-TV in Greensboro/High Point, where she’s been ND since 2000. The move also reunites Karen with GM KAREN ADAMS, who was her boss at WGHP before she became GM here in 2013. Karen has worked in Atlanta, Toledo, Indianapolis, Wilmington, NC, and Raleigh-Durham. Karen told me she has family and a boyfriend in Charlotte so she’s excited about the move. She replaces the station’s first ND, GEOFF ROTH, who left in September to return to FOX’s KRIV-TV in Houston as Managing Editor.

Fries

WCJB-TV, Gainesville, FL…KEVIN FRIES starts December 22nd as ND for this Diversified Communications owned ABC affiliate. He’s been the Assistant ND for WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge, LA, the latest stop in a 25+ year career. His complete background is listed on his Linkedin page. Kevin replaces ANDREA CLENNEY who left the station in October to become news director for WLTZ-TV in Columbus, GA. Andrea was ND here for three years.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Executive Producer, WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY:

News 4 is seeking a top Executive Producer who loves to live news! A qualified applicant will be an experienced Executive Producer or Special Projects Producer or the best producer in your shop, who is a great writer and wants to help lead a team of the some of the strongest news people in the business.

You must be able to explain and then sustain our news vision. Some additional job requirements include; knowledge of graphics-use to enhance the value to our audience, know how to showcase a newscast and the ability to lead and enhance the performance of producers, reporters and anchors.

The ideal candidate will understand, use and be able to teach the value of social media and digital content. Great judgment and ethics along with the ability to maintain a flexible work schedule will contribute to your success in this position.

Education/Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, TV/film or the equivalent and at least 5 years experience in television or radio broadcast/production.

If you know how to bring value to viewers, love investigative journalism, understand the importance of weather and can work well under pressure, this may be the job for you!

WIVB/WNLO is a LIN Media station. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, and offer competitive salaries and wages, and a standard benefit package that includes a 401K plan and medical and dental plans.

To apply online – click here.

EOE/MINORITIES/FEMALES/VETERANS/DISABLED

Promotion Manager, WTTV, Indianapolis, IN:

WTTV, a Tribune Broadcasting station is looking for a Promotion Manager to assist the Creative Services Director in all aspects of promotion and marketing for the station.

The ideal candidate will supervise the on-air writer/producers and is responsible for promotion production technologies as well as writing, producing and editing of all on-air promotional materials.

The successful candidate will assist Creative Services Director with the development of concepts and strategies for selected programming, including formulating a marketing strategy, creating themes, selecting media, assigning facilities and personnel, and coordinating all elements needed to produce effective advertising campaigns while working closely with news managers and reporters to effectively promote local news with topical and image promotion.

This position requires an undergraduate degree or equivalent related experience with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in local television or ad agency. To apply online click here.

News Director, WLBT-TV, Jackson, MS:

WLBT, the news leader in Jackson, Mississippi, has an immediate opening for a News Director to lead this award winning news department.

Jackson is the capitol and largest city in Mississippi. Jackson is known for its hospitality and the most welcoming people in the South. If you love great weather, outdoor activities, food, music and a diverse cultural experience then you will love living in Jackson.

WLBT has market leading anchors/reporters, a strong digital presence and the market’s only news helicopter.
News Director is responsible for producing 47 hours of news each week on the NBC and FOX stations.
We are looking for a visionary who has experience as a manager in local television news.
Applicants must have an eye on the future of broadcast and digital news.
We are looking for job applicants with a background in long-range strategic planning, competitive team development and budget management.
Strong communication and organizational skills are a must.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree from four-year College or University in Mass Communications or Journalism. Minimum 5 years management experience preferred.

Applications for employment are now submitted electronically. If you are interested in applying, please visit this website.

EOE – M/F/D/V

News Director/Anchor, WUTR/WPNY/WFXV, Utica, NY:

WUTR, WPNY and WFXV in Utica, NY seeks a News Director/Anchor who is aggressive, forward thinking and a creative journalist. We produce news product on three different channels and have the market’s only high definition news operation.

The successful candidate must have an understanding of what “local” news is and how to engage our viewers with relevant content. He/she will anchor, producer, hire, mentor and lead a team of skilled professionals. Solid news judgment, great communication skills and exceptional storytelling techniques are a must. 5-10 years of experience as a primary news anchor preferred. Knowledge of eMedia, social media and mobile website journalism is required.

The Utica market is an extraordinary place to live and work, offering diversity and a uniquely affordable living experience. It is home to a vibrant business sector, impressive colleges and universities, unparalleled hospitals, world-renowned museums and an AHL Hockey team. The market comprises an area rich in history and scenic beauty. Nestled at the base of the foothills of the Adirondack Preserve, the market is the geographical center of New York State and a short 4 hour drive to New York City, Boston, and the Canadian border.

Please send a web link, resume, cover letter and news philosophy to: sventura@wutr.tv

or via mail to:

Stephen J. Ventura
Vice President and General Manager
WUTR/WFXV/WPNY
5956 Smith Hill Road
Utica NY 13502

Managing Editor, WFXT-TV, Boston, MA:

It’s a new era and exciting time at WFXT, the Fox affiliate in Boston, which currently produces 52 ½ hours of news each week. Cox Media Group recently acquired this previously Fox-owned station and is adding staff to the newsroom.

To help the lead the newsroom, WFXT seeks a Managing Editor who will oversee the daily news operation and preparation of daily newscasts. This position, which is 2nd in command in the newsroom, will help make sure the best stories of the day are covered and are presented in the most engaging ways possible.

The successful candidate will always be thinking about and understanding news coverage on all platforms. This position works with reporters every day, overseeing their newsgathering efforts and being a final set of eyes on their copy. The Managing Editor works with all other positions in the newsroom to ensure coverage is accurate and competitive while also meeting research-based goals on all platforms.

Please apply directly via this website: and search for Job ID# 1411319.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WBZ-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/9/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/30/14)
KSLA-TV, Shreveport, LA (relisted this week)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA (relisted 11/1/14)
WUSA-TV, Washington, DC (TWO openings, listed 11/21/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/9/14)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/1/14)
KTXL-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (Morning EP, listing revised 11/30/14)
WTNH-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (Digital EP, listed 10/26/14)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI, (AM EP, PM EP & Spec. Projects, relisted 10/11/14)
WSPA-TV, Greenville/Spartanburg, SC (AM EP, listed 10/11/14)
WIAT-TV, Birmingham, AL (listed 11/1/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/16/14)
WIVB-TV, Buffalo, NY (new listing this week, see ad above!)
WMTW-TV, Portland, ME (AM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WCYB-TV, Tri-Cities, TN (relisted 10/11/14)
WCTI-TV, Greenville/New Bern, NC (listed 8/31/14)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listed 11/16/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

Central Florida News 13, Orlando, FL (relisted 11/16/14)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WFXT-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/1/14, see ad above!)
KIRO-TV, Seattle, WA (relisted 10/11/14)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (relisted 10/26/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA: (relisted 11/1/14)

Obituaries:

Bonds

Funeral services for legendary Detroit Anchorman BILL BONDS will be held Friday, December 19 in a Detroit suburb, with visitation the day before. Complete details, including memorial information, are listed here. We told you yesterday that Bill died Saturday of an apparent heart attack at the age of 82. He spent most of his career at WXYZ-TV in the Motor City, though ABC, which owned the station for most of his time there, briefly shipped him to stations in Los Angeles and New York. WXYZ posted this obit to its website, along with links to many sidebars.

Situations Wanted:

We offer a free situations wanted ad to news managers who are out of work and looking for a new opportunity. If you’d like to state your case to a well targeted audience, email me an item (max. 150 words). You may include a link to a website, an email address, and a photo. You must include your name. I’ll run it for one week. I don’t represent or endorse those listed, but merely trying to help.

Names in the News…and other things:

KIMBERLY GODWIN, who’s been a news director in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Cleveland, has been named Senior Broadcast Producer for the CBS Evening News. She joined CBS seven years ago. More on her promotion here. Kim’s also worked for local stations in New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, West Palm Beach, and Tallahassee.

RUBEN VILLAESCUSA has been promoted to Assistant News Director for KTTV, the FOX o-and-o in Los Angeles. He’s been the Assignment Manager and has worked there for 21 years. Ruben’s also worked for two other LA stations.

There are two Executive Producer moves at WTSP-TV in Tampa. Morning EP MELISSA DART gets to sleep in as she moves to Dayside EP. And producer MELISSA RAMSEY replaces Melissa as the morning EP.

GALEAN JAMES is the new Nightside EP for Raycom’s WLBT-TV in Jackson, MS. She’s worked at that NBC affiliate for more than ten years, most recently as a producer.

WEVV-TV in Evansville is bringing back news. I couldn’t find anything on the station’s website (with no news department, that’s probably not too surprising) but we can thank cross-town competitor WFIE-TV for posting this brief item on its website.

The news is not as good in Atlantic City, NJ, where WMGM-TV’s newscasts will stop at the end of the year. But there is hope in the future, as detailed in this story.

August

Finally, best wishes to longtime KGTV (San Diego) newsman J.W. AUGUST who’s retiring from this Scripps owned ABC affiliate after 33 years. J.W. tells me he started a little later than most…he was in his mid-30’s when he started as a weekend assignment editor after some freelance work for print and wire services. He’s been a writer, producer, managing editor, segment producer for the consumer unit, and is currently senior investigative producer. Your note of well wishes can be sent to: jw.august@10news.com

General Manager News:

Pimentel

MARK PIMENTEL returns to Atlanta as General Manager of Meredith’s WGCL-TV, the CBS affiliate there. He’s been the GM of the company’s KMOV-TV (CBS) in St. Louis for the past 2 1/2 years, but earlier in his career was ND for WXIA-TV and EP for WSB-TV there. Mark’s also been an ND in Charleston, SC, and Baltimore, and a GM in Huntsville, Richmond, Lexington, and Louisville.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

If you know of any additions/deletions/updates, please email me at: rick@rickgevers.com

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, December 14, 2014.

WPIX-TV 220 E. 42nd Street New York NY 10017
KWHY-TV 4975 W. Pico Blvd Los Angeles,CA 90019 *
WFTS-TV 4045 N. Himes Ave. Tampa FL 33607
KOMO-TV 140 Fourth Ave. North Seattle WA 98109
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMGH-TV 123 Speer Blvd. Denver CO 80203
KSDK-TV 1000 Market St. St. Louis MO 63101
KGTV 4600 Air Way San Diego CA 92101
WCMH-TV 3165 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus OH 43202
WHBQ-TV 485 South Highland Memphis TN 38111
WGHP-TV 2005 Francis St. High Point NC 27263
WBIR-TV 1513 Hutchison Ave Knoxville TN 37917
WEAR-TV 4990 Mobile Highway Pensacola FL 32506
WOWK-TV 555 Fifth Ave. Huntington WV 25701
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St. East Syracuse, NY 13057
WLBT-TV 715 South Jefferson St. Jackson MS 39201 (see ad above!)
KFSM-TV 485 South Highland Ft. Smith AR 72901
WBTW-TV 101 McDonald Court Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
WTAJ-TV 5000 6th Ave. Altoona, PA 16603
WDAZ-TV 2220 S. Washington Grand Forks, ND 52801
KCBD-TV 485 South Highland Lubbock TX 79404
KTIV-TV 3135 Floyd Blvd. Sioux City IA 51108
WVVA-TV 3052 Big Laurel Highway, Bluefield WV 24701
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV 5956 Smith Hill Road Utica NY 13502 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

December 7, 2014

December 13, 2014 UDPATE:

Legendary anchorman BILL BONDS died this afternoon at his Detroit home of an apparent heart attack. He was 82.

Bill spent most of his career at WXYZ-TV (then owned by ABC) in Detroit, but twice was exported to other ABC o-and-o’s in Los Angeles and New York. But he always returned to his hometown.

The station led its 11:00 newscast tonight with this obituary and spent the first 45 minutes of Saturday’s 11:00 news on the story.

He had many memorable moments at the anchor desk. Bonds once challenged Mayor COLEMAN YOUNG to a fist fight, and he later admitted on-air that he was an alcoholic. He also was featured in this series of promos touting the city as well as the station.

There’s much more on the station’s website. And there are lengthy stories in the Detroit Free-Press and the Detroit News.

We’ll be back with our full weekly newsletter sometime early Sunday evening.

**** ***** ****
Greetings:

The first full week after the Thanksgiving Holiday proves to be a VERY busy one, with lots of activity.

There are THREE new news directors. There are FOUR new news director openings, leaving 26 open ND jobs, according to my list. TWO of those openings are among the FOUR paid help wanted ads in our report.

We have THREE obituaries, a number of news managers on the move, and more General Manager moves than I think we’ve ever had.

One of our sponsors, Devlin Design Group, unveils a new ad with details about one of their newest installations. And another sponsor, WeatherMetrics, has a new COO.

All that and more in a very full report.

New News Director Openings:

Jobe

WHBQ-TV, Memphis, TN…we told you earlier this week that veteran ND KEN JOBE left this newly-acquired-by-Cox Media FOX affiliate. The longtime GM at the station, JOHN KOSKI, left the same day. Ken’s been a news director at WKBK-TV in Detroit, WLWT-TV in Cincinnati, and for WMC-TV in Memphis. He’s also worked in New York and Nashville, as well as an EP for another Cincinnati station.

Bagley

KFSM-TV, Ft. Smith, AR…after six years as News Director for this Tribune owned CBS affiliate, RICK BAGLEY is leaving to become the Nightside Executive Producer for KTRK-TV, the ABC o-and-o in Houston. It’s a return to KTRK and to Texas for Rick, who once worked as a producer there. He’s also been a News Director in El Paso (where he began his career as a producer in an earlier stint), and worked as a producer in San Antonio.

Snead

KCBD-TV, Lubbock, TX…after 20 years working for this NBC affiliate, BENJI SNEAD is leaving for a position with a local bank. He’s held a variety of jobs during his tenure before being promoted to News Director in October, 2002. Benji will stay at the station for another month or two while the search is on for his replacement. KCBD is owned by Raycom Media.

WUTR/WPNY/WFXV, Utica, NY…DON DUDLEY will leave this Nexstar owned operation at the end of the year, so the search is on for a News Director and Anchor to replace him Don’s been there for a little over a year. Learn more about this opportunity in the paid ad below.

Speaking of paid ads, WLBT-TV is advertising its news director opening which we first told you about a few weeks ago. That ad is below, as well.

Newly Named News Directors:

Neerman

KSNV-TV, Las Vegas, NV…MARK NEERMAN returns to Las Vegas and to a newsroom when he begins Monday as the next ND for this newly-acquired by Sinclair NBC affiliate. Mark most recently was the ND at WHAS-TV in Louisville, a job he left 15 months ago to start a marketing consulting company. He’s a former ND at KVVU-TV, the FOX affiliate in Las Vegas. He’s also been an ND in Richmond, and has worked in San Francisco, Portland, OR, Miami, and Columbia, MO. Mark replaces CRAIG HUME who left the station late last month after 18 months as ND.

Harris

WTLV/WJXX-TV, Jacksonville, FL…MEAGAN HARRIS stays within Gannett as she moves from WFAA-TV in Dallas to become ND for this NBC/ABC duopoly. She’s been an EP at WFAA for the past eight years. She earlier worked in San Antonio and Sherman, TX. In Jacksonville, she replaces KATHY WILLIAMS who resigned in June after two years.

Richards

WRGB-TV, Albany/Schenectady, NY…STEVE RICHARDS returns to the ND chair as he’s been named ND for this Sinclair owned CBS affiliate. Steve most recently was ND for WHEC-TV in Rochester, NY, before leaving in August, 2013. He worked there for 27 years, first as a vacation relief photographer, eventually moving to Managing Editor and Assistant ND before being promoted to ND in December, 2009. At WRGB, he replaces LISA JACKSON who left the station in October after almost seven years as ND and (coincidentally) 27 years at WRGB.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WLBT-TV, Jackson, MS:

WLBT, the news leader in Jackson, Mississippi, has an immediate opening for a News Director to lead this award winning news department.

Jackson is the capitol and largest city in Mississippi. Jackson is known for its hospitality and the most welcoming people in the South. If you love great weather, outdoor activities, food, music and a diverse cultural experience then you will love living in Jackson.

WLBT has market leading anchors/reporters, a strong digital presence and the market’s only news helicopter.
News Director is responsible for producing 47 hours of news each week on the NBC and FOX stations.
We are looking for a visionary who has experience as a manager in local television news.
Applicants must have an eye on the future of broadcast and digital news.
We are looking for job applicants with a background in long-range strategic planning, competitive team development and budget management.
Strong communication and organizational skills are a must.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree from four-year College or University in Mass Communications or Journalism. Minimum 5 years management experience preferred.

Applications for employment are now submitted electronically. If you are interested in applying, please visit this website.

EOE – M/F/D/V

News Director/Anchor, WUTR/WPNY/WFXV, Utica, NY:

WUTR, WPNY and WFXV in Utica, NY seeks a News Director/Anchor who is aggressive, forward thinking and a creative journalist. We produce news product on three different channels and have the market’s only high definition news operation.

The successful candidate must have an understanding of what “local” news is and how to engage our viewers with relevant content. He/she will anchor, producer, hire, mentor and lead a team of skilled professionals. Solid news judgment, great communication skills and exceptional storytelling techniques are a must. 5-10 years of experience as a primary news anchor preferred. Knowledge of eMedia, social media and mobile website journalism is required.

The Utica market is an extraordinary place to live and work, offering diversity and a uniquely affordable living experience. It is home to a vibrant business sector, impressive colleges and universities, unparalleled hospitals, world-renowned museums and an AHL Hockey team. The market comprises an area rich in history and scenic beauty. Nestled at the base of the foothills of the Adirondack Preserve, the market is the geographical center of New York State and a short 4 hour drive to New York City, Boston, and the Canadian border.

Please send a web link, resume, cover letter and news philosophy to: sventura@wutr.tv

or via mail to:

Stephen J. Ventura
Vice President and General Manager
WUTR/WFXV/WPNY
5956 Smith Hill Road
Utica NY 13502

Managing Editor, WFXT-TV, Boston, MA:

It’s a new era and exciting time at WFXT, the Fox affiliate in Boston, which currently produces 52 ½ hours of news each week. Cox Media Group recently acquired this previously Fox-owned station and is adding staff to the newsroom.

To help the lead the newsroom, WFXT seeks a Managing Editor who will oversee the daily news operation and preparation of daily newscasts. This position, which is 2nd in command in the newsroom, will help make sure the best stories of the day are covered and are presented in the most engaging ways possible.

The successful candidate will always be thinking about and understanding news coverage on all platforms. This position works with reporters every day, overseeing their newsgathering efforts and being a final set of eyes on their copy. The Managing Editor works with all other positions in the newsroom to ensure coverage is accurate and competitive while also meeting research-based goals on all platforms.

Please apply directly via this website: and search for Job ID# 1411319.

Assistant News Director, WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA:

WHTM-TV/abc27 in Harrisburg, PA has an immediate opening for an Assistant News Director. We are the leading multi-platform news operation in Pennsylvania’s state capital and we need an experienced leader that understands the importance of content superiority on all platforms.

Our next Assistant News Director will have big shoes to fill. This person is the cornerstone in executing our editorial strategy and must be committed to applying our standards to TV, web, mobile and social media.

The AND works closely with the entire news staff, guiding reporters in the development of their stories, assisting producers in showcasing content and providing feedback often to the entire team. We are aggressive in the pursuit of enterprise content and breaking news. Our Assistant News Director must be able to maintain our excellence in these very critical areas.

If you have producing experience you will stand out as an applicant. Our AND needs to be able to fill in line-producing newscasts in a pinch or helping out on the assignment desk occasionally.

Learn more about this opportunity by clicking here.

SEND RESUME, EDITORIAL PHILOSOPHY AND COVER LETTER VIA EMAIL TO:

humanresources@abc27.com

or mail to:

Human Resources
Harrisburg Television, Inc.
abc27 WHTM-TV
P.O. Box 5860
3235 Hoffman Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
fx: 717-745-3997

*** NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE***

WHTM-TV/abc27 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EEO/M/F

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WBZ-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/9/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/30/14, see ad above!)
KSLA-TV, Shreveport, LA (listed 9/29/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA (relisted 11/1/14)
WUSA-TV, Washington, DC (TWO openings, listed 11/21/14)
WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL (Dayside EP, listed 11/1/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/9/14)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, relisted 11/1/14)
KTXL-TV, Sacramento, CA (PM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WTNH-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (Digital EP, listed 10/26/14)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI, (AM EP, PM EP & Spec. Projects, relisted 10/11/14)
WSPA-TV, Greenville/Spartanburg, SC (AM EP, listed 10/11/14)
WIAT-TV, Birmingham, AL (listed 11/1/14)
WGHP-TV, Greensboro/High Point, NC (Dayside EP, relisted 10/26/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (Morning EP, listing revised 11/30/14)
WHTM-TV, Harrisburg, PA (listed 11/16/14)
WMTW-TV, Portland, ME (AM EP, listed 10/19/14)
WLBT-TV, Jackson, MS (Nightside EP, listed 10/11/14)
WCYB-TV, Tri-Cities, TN (relisted 10/11/14)
WCTI-TV, Greenville/New Bern, NC (listed 8/31/14)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listed 11/16/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

Central Florida News 13, Orlando, FL (relisted 11/16/14)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WFXT-TV, Boston, MA (listed 11/1/14, see ad above!)
WGCL-TV, Atlanta, GA (listed 11/16/14)
KIRO-TV, Seattle, WA (relisted 10/11/14)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (relisted 10/26/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA: (relisted 11/1/14)

Obituaries:

Gealy

DOUG GEALY, a group manager for several Sinclair markets, died this week at the age of 54. The company news release on his passing is here, and the obituary (with memorial information and next of kin) can be found by clicking here. Doug began his career in Ohio, served as a GM in Peoria and Columbus, OH, before becoming Executive VP of Benedek Broadcasting and a founder and CEO of ACME Communications. He joined Sinclair about a year ago.

JACKIE PILLERS, who worked for three Nashville TV stations during her career, died this week at the age of 53 of a neurological disease. She was working for WTVF-TV as a special projects producer, but worked for more than 20 years at WSMV-TV and also worked for WKRN-TV. This obituary describes a woman with an infectious and unforgettable laugh.

Our sympathy to LES VANN, a one-time ND turned General Manager on the loss of his father, BILL VANN. Mr. Vann died last month at the age of 89 in Springfield, IL. He’s survived by Les and five other children, including a son who is the Bishop of Orange County.  More in this obituary. Les is currently GM of WISH-TV here in Indianapolis, but earlier served as a news director in Illinois. He’s since been a GM for stations in Illinois, Syracuse, Cincinnati, and Savannah, GA.

Situations Wanted:

We offer a free situations wanted ad to news managers who are out of work and looking for a new opportunity. If you’d like to state your case to a well targeted audience, email me an item (max. 150 words). You may include a link to a website, an email address, and a photo. You must include your name. I’ll run it for one week. I don’t represent or endorse those listed, but merely trying to help.

Names in the News…and other things:

With less than a month to go before a major affiliation switch here in Indianapolis, the local newspaper takes a look at the future for WISH-TV, which is losing its CBS affiliation after 58 years.

SCOTT WARREN, who most recently worked at The Weather Channel as EP of the SAM CHAMPION morning program, has joined WFLD-TV in Chicago as Nightside Executive Producer.

KTRK-TV has named two Assistant News Directors and a new EP, according to MIKE McGUFF’s blog, which you can read here. Longtime Managing Editor CHRIS HANSON is now Assistant News Director of Digital, while REHAN ASLAM joins the station (from WFLD-TV in Chicago) as Assistant News Director for Broadcast. And, as we mentioned above, RICK BAGLEY is the new Nightside EP, coming from KFSM-TV in Ft. Smith, AR.

ROXANNE GARCIA-BELL will leave her job as NBC News’ Atlanta bureau chief this week after a 20 year career with the company. More here from Media Moves.

MARK FARRELL moves a few hours south from Jacksonville to Orlando, where he’s been named EP for WFTV, the ABC affiliate in Orlando. He’d beeb working for WTLV-TV in Jacksonville.

JESSICA NEIDHARD has been promoted to Nightside EP for WDTN-TV in Dayton. She’s been the 11:00 PM producer there.

Our good friend (and two-time RTNDA/RTDNA President) BOB PRIDDY finished his 40 year career at Missourinet this week and was profiled in this article in the Columbia Missourian.

Devlin Design Group (a longtime supporter of this newsletter) launched a new set project for WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge, LA. Learn more about that here.

LISA FREIDEL joins WeatherMetrics as Chief Operating Officer. She joins the company from AT&T.

General Manager News:

Lots of GM changes this week.

WNBC-TV (New York) General Manager MICHAEL JACK will retire next June. He’s also run two other NBC owned stations, WRC-TV in Washington and WCMH-TV in Columbus, OH (before NBC sold the station to Media General.)

Speaking of WCMH, KEN FREEDMAN will be the next GM for that Media General-owned NBC affiliate in Columbus, OH. He currently holds the same job for KWQC-TV, the company’s NBC affiliate in the Quad Cities of Illinois and Iowa.

PAUL BRIGGS, who’s been the General Sales Manager for Cox Media’s WSOC-TV in Charlotte, has been tabbed to become GM for the company’s new station in Memphis, WHBQ-TV.

Another promotion from GSM to GM as RON ROMINES moves up at WTEN-TV in Albany, NY. That’s a Media General owned ABC affiliate.

Yet another Media General station, WBAY-TV in Green Bay, has promoted STEVE LAVIN to be GM for this ABC affiliate. He’s the Station Manager/General Sales Manager there, and replaces DON CARMICHAEL, who’s retiring. Don was the GM there for 21 years and previously worked in sales for WJXT-TV in Jacksonville, FL, where we worked together briefly.

Finally, EDWIN GROVES will be the next GM for Sinclair’s KBSI-TV in Cape Girardeau, MO.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

If you know of any additions/deletions/updates, please email me at: rick@rickgevers.com

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Saturday, December 6, 2014.
WPIX-TV 220 E. 42nd Street New York NY 10017
KWHY-TV 4975 W. Pico Blvd Los Angeles,CA 90019 *
WFTS-TV 4045 N. Himes Ave. Tampa FL 33607
KOMO-TV 140 Fourth Ave. North Seattle WA 98109
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMGH-TV 123 Speer Blvd. Denver CO 80203
KSDK-TV 1000 Market St. St. Louis MO 63101
WJZY/WMYT-TV 3501 Performance Rd. Charlotte NC 28214
KGTV 4600 Air Way San Diego CA 92101
WCMH-TV 3165 Olentangy River Rd. Columbus OH 43202
WHBQ-TV 485 South Highland Memphis TN 38111
WBIR-TV 1513 Hutchison Ave Knoxville TN 37917
WEAR-TV 4990 Mobile Highway Pensacola FL 32506
WOWK-TV 555 Fifth Ave. Huntington WV 25701
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St. East Syracuse, NY 13057
WLBT-TV 715 South Jefferson St. Jackson MS 39201 (see ad above!)
KFSM-TV 318 North 13th Street Fort Smith AR 72901
WBTW-TV 101 McDonald Court Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
WTAJ-TV 5000 6th Ave. Altoona, PA 16603
WDAZ-TV 2220 S. Washington Grand Forks, ND 52801
KCBD-TV 485 South Highland Lubbock TX 79404
KTIV-TV 3135 Floyd Blvd. Sioux City IA 51108
WVVA-TV 3052 Big Laurel Highway, Bluefield WV 24701
WCJB-TV 6220 NW 43rd Street Gainesville FL 32653
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV 5956 Smith Hill Road Utica NY 13502 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station