Rick Gevers & Associates

June 24, 2012

Greetings:

We have lots to share with you in this delayed-by-travel edition of our weekly newsletter. (Good to see many old friends, and meet new ones at NABJ this past week in New Orleans. Thanks to all for saying hello.)

This week:

SIX new news directors.

FOUR new openings.

FIVE new help wanted ads (including two for ND jobs).

ONE new feature which can hopefully help people looking for jobs.

(And if anyone plays SIX-FOUR-FIVE-ONE in the lottery and wins, I get half.)

Our count of open ND positions remains at 31.

The new feature I mentioned above is a free Situations Wanted posting for those looking. Learn more about that below.

We have three obituaries for longtime news managers, details about some managers on the move, a new job for a well known former ND and GM, and a bittersweet birthday for a veteran newsman.

All that, and more, below…after this week’s changes:

New News Director Openings:

WCMH-TV, Columbus, OH…IKE WALKER has resigned from the Media General owned NBC affiliate. He’s been there since 2008, first as Content Brand Manager, then (in 2009) he was promoted to Director of Digital Journalism (news director to me and you). He previously was a ND in Topeka, and has worked in Tulsa and Savannah, GA.

Holden

WPMT-TV, Harrisburg, PA…CHRIS HOLDEN is returning to Phoenix and leaving this Tribune owned FOX affiliate after 3 1/2 years as ND here. He’ll be reunited with PHIL ALVIDREZ (for whom Chris once worked at KTVK) at Phil’s company, Magic Dust Television. Magic Dust created and produces the show RightThisMinute, working with Cox, Scripps and Raycom. Chris has also worked at KPNX-TV in Phoenix, as well as in Jonesboro, AR, and Salt Lake City.

KOTV, Tulsa, OK…longtime news director RON HARIG is moving away from his responsibilities as Director of PM Content (news director). He’ll oversee the station’s move into a new facility and will then transition to a consulting role next May. Ron’s worked for this Griffin Communications owned CBS affiliate for more than ten years and was a consultant for AR&D before that.

WJHG-TV, Panama City, FL…GAVIN MALISKA is leaving this NBC affiliate after one year as ND to become ND for WGXA-TV in Macon, GA. More on that move below.

And while not a new opening, please note that WVNS-TV is re-running an ad for its open ND position.  You can find that below.

Newly Named News Directors:

Culver

WJLA-TV, Washington, DC…in an announcement that surprised…well, not too many…DOUG CULVER has been named ND here. We told you last week that Doug was leaving his job as ND for WFTS-TV in Tampa (see paid ad below) for a new job to be announced soon. Doug spent more than three years in Tampa. Before that, he worked at WJLA (with former ND, now GM) BILL LORD. They also worked together in Seattle and Los Angeles. Doug replaces ALEX LIKOWSKI at this Albritton owned ABC affiliate.

Mecham

WTAJ-TV, Altoona, PA…JOHN MECHAM starts July 1st as ND for this Nexstar owned CBS affiliate. John’s a former news director in Boise who most recently has been doing public relations work in Phoenix. He’s worked at TV stations in Tucson, Seattle, Miami, Pittsburgh and Waterloo, IA. At WTAJ, he replaces DAVID KAPLAR who left the station last spring after more than three years as ND to become Assistant ND for WEWS-TV in Cleveland.

Dixon

WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL…LA’QUINTA DIXON will be the next ND for this Caulkins Media owned ABC affiliate. She’s currently in her second stint at KENS-TV in San Antonio where she’s been the Executive Producer. She’s also been an EP in Kansas City, and an Assistant ND in Louisville. La’Quinta replaces BILL CUMMINGS who left the station for an ND job in Yuma, AZ, to be closer to family.

Maliska

WGXA-TV, Macon, GA…veteran ND GAVIN MALISKA joins this Frontier Broadcasting owned FOX affiliate as ND. He’s been the ND for WJHG-TV in Panama City, FL, for the past year, and spent the year before that as ND for Bonten Media’s NBC affiliates in Montana. He’s been an ND for WOFL-TV in Orlando, WXIN-TV in Indianapolis, and has worked in Chicago and Detroit. The move reunites him with GM BECKY SWAN: they worked together in Montana. Gavin replaces GEORGE JOBIN who is leaving the station.

Edinger

KNDU/KNDO-TV, Yakima, WA…SHANE EDINGER adds news director responsibilities in addition to his anchor role for this Cowles-owned NBC affiliate. He replaces CHRISTINE BROWN who’s being promoted to GM here. Christine has been a longtime anchor for the station as well. Shane’s worked at the station twice. He’s also worked in Charlottesville, VA, Missoula, MT, and Eugene, OR.

Conner

WOAY-TV, Oak Hill, WV…KETIH “KC” CONNER takes his first news director job as he joins this Thomas Broadcasting owned ABC Affiliate. Keith is a West Virginia native who’s been working as an assignment editor at WCCB-TV in Charlotte. KC replaces SCOTT SNIDER who left the station to take a PR job in Washington. Scott was ND there since September, but worked for many years as an ND/anchor in Bridgeport, WV.

Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL:

WFTS-TV, an E.W. Scripps owned ABC affiliate in sunny Tampa is seeking a dynamic News Director.

Successful candidate will have 5 years experience in a medium to large market as a News Director with proven skills in increased ratings and 3 screen strategies. Candidate must be innovative with exceptional leadership skills. Ideal candidate will have strong experience in winning breaking news, breaking weather, game changing investigative and local story telling.

WFTS-TV was voted Florida’s best news operation, four years in a row, and has won regional Murrow for overall excellence and numerous others. Our mission is to be one of the best multi-media stations in America. To help lead us there, apply online at www.scripps.com

News Director, WVNS-TV, Bluefield/Beckley, WV:

Are you looking for that first opportunity to run your own news room?

Are you working for one of those large groups with multiple regional news directors and corporate news people that stifle your creative juices?

Are you sick of chasing crime stories every day and want to live in a community where you can have a positive impact on your viewers?

Do you like the outdoors and want to live in an area that has some of the best hunting, skiing, fishing and white water in the country?

Then you should think about WVNS-TV, The CBS and FOX affiliate in the Bluefield-Beckley, West Virginia market. We are a small market station with larger market resources. We are part of a privately owned state wide network of 8 affiliates with a commitment to local news.

Contact Chris Leister, General Manager at cleister@wvnstv.com

Evening EP, KDVR-KWGN-TV, Denver, CO:

KDVR/KWGN-TV (Fox/CW in Denver) has an immediate opening for an Executive Producer to oversee the 3½ hours of news we produce on-air weekday evenings (5pm/9pm/10pm on KDVR and 7pm on KWGN) and on our web and mobile platforms. We are looking for a strong leader who is aggressively competitive and can help us continue to shake up the Denver market.

Our Executive Producers are responsible for managing all aspects of newscast content and play a vital role in our strategic plan to grow ratings and improve our on-air product in addition to the web and mobile platforms. Must have solid news judgment, be able to meet daily deadlines, work well under pressure, generate story and coverage ideas on a daily and long-term basis, manage a team of producers, and work with a large, diverse staff in a professional manner. Excellent communication skills are required, as is prior management and major market producing experience.

If you have what it takes – immediately send a resume and DVD and/or links of your work to Dana Dieterle: dana.dieterle@kdvr.com or via mail to:

Dana Dieterle
Assistant News Director
KDVR/KWGN-TV
100 East Speer Boulevard
Denver, CO 80203
No phone calls please. EOE M/F/D/V

Executive News Producer, KARK-TV, Little Rock, AR:

KARK, the NBC affiliate in Little Rock, Arkansas, is looking for an aggressive, innovative, creative, and dynamic executive producer to help transform our product. The successful candidate will lead our team of journalists by producing visually compelling shows that make an impact with an audience both on-air and online. In addition to producing duties, the executive producer will mentor and train show producers, work with crews in the field, help differentiate the content in our broadcasts, and set the standard for how KARK shows are produced and executed.

The successful candidates will understand the importance of breaking news and concept of dropping everything to win the big story and weather.

Candidates must be engaged in social media and be able to regularly contribute to the station’s website.
Above all, we’re looking for someone with an optimistic outlook and a winning attitude. Applicants should a minimum of two years producing experience.

If interested, email resume and reel to akellerman@kark.com or mail it to:

Austin Kellerman
News Director
KARK-TV
1401 W. Capitol Ave Suite 104
Little Rock, Arkansas, 72201

KARK is an equal opportunity employer.

Executive Producer, WCYB-TV, Bristol, VA:

Great opportunity in one of the most beautiful and affordable places in the nation.

News 5 WCYB-TV Tri-Cities, TN-VA, is seeking an Executive News Producer. Qualified candidates will have at least 3 years of television producing, Assignment desk and or Assistant News Director experience in a smaller market. To be considered, applicants must be excellent show producers and writers, meet deadlines, have management and supervision skills and be passionate about TV news. The Executive Producer must be someone who can craft shows, mentor young producers, a person who understands our goals and how to achieve them. You must also be able to copy edit and proof reporter scripts, produce specials and work with weather, sports and other departments to produce quality content. You must be competitive, energetic, a true team player and a person who works well with others.

Send resume, references, cover letter and dvd or link of a recent newscast to: ksmith@wcyb.com or via regular mail:

Ken Smith
News Director
WCYB-TV
101 Lee Street
Bristol VA 24201

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (relisted 4/20/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 6/16/12)
WXMI-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 5/26/11)
WMC-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 6/10/12)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 4/20/12)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 6/1/12)
KVLY/KXJB-TV, Fargo, ND (listed 5/4/11)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KDFW-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KPRC-TV, Houston, TX (listing relisted this week)
KDVR/KWGN-TV, Denver, CO (PM EP, new listing this week, see ad above!)
WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 5/4/11)
KOIN-TV, Portland OR (PM EP, listed 4/7/12)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KGTV, San Diego, CA (AM EP, listed 6/10/12)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (AM EP, listed 5/18/12)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (new listing this week)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/27/12)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)
KFSN-TV, Fresno, CA (new listing this week)
KARK-TV, Little Rock, AR (new listing this week, see ad above!)
WROC-TV, Rochester, NY (listed 6/1/12)
KBAK/KBFX-TV, Bakersfield, CA (AM EP, listed 5/26/12)
WCYB-TV, Bristol, VA (relisted this week, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 4/27/12)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)

Situations Wanted:

This week I’m trying a new feature.

I’ll post one brief item sent to me from someone looking for a news management job. I do not represent these people, and I do not endorse them: I’m merely providing a platform for those looking for a job. Details below on how to participate.

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

Crabtree

Here’s this week’s submission from STEVE CRABTREE:

Mature high energy and proven hands-on newsroom veteran seeks opportunity to again lead a newsroom to new heights. Ten years metered market experience. But market size matters less than the the station’s committment to excellence, community involvement and good journalism.

Proven success at recruiting, mentoring and training award winning producers, reporters and anchors. Will maximize today’s three screen technology. Unquestioned honesty and integrity. Skilled budget manager to improve ROI in human and technological resources. More in the following link: www.crabtreenews.com

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

(If you’d like to state your case follow these simple rules. Email me an item no longer than 100 words. You may include one link to a website, an email address, and an optional photo. You must include your name. I’ll run it for one week. All decisions as to content are mine.)

Obituaries:

We have three obituaries:

DON OWEN, who was the first ND for Shreveport’s KSLA-TV and spent 30 years in that role, died June 17th of complications from pneumonia. He was 82. Don also anchored at the station. He left TV in 1984 and was elected District 5 Public Service Commission, serving three terms.

BOB LEWIS, who spent 40 years working for WJHL-TV in the Tri Cities market in Tennessee, died earlier this week after a long illness. He would have been 67 on Thursday. Bob did almost everything during his career at WJHL, beginning as a photographer, then working as an anchor and eventually ND before retiring in 2007.

JON BEANS, public affairs director, reporter and host for Alabama Public Television, died June 20th. He was 50 and suffered from sickle cell anemia. He also was an adjunct professor at Alabama State University for 14 years and served as a mentor to many through NABJ.

Names in the News:

Wordlaw

GARY WORDLAW has moved back to New Orleans to be the GM of a new Bounce TV network affiliate, owned by WVUE-TV there. Gary most recently was GM for WTXL-TV in Tallahassee. He’s been a GM in Seattle, New Orleans, and Syracuse, an ND in Washington and Baltimore, and also worked in Chattanooga, TN. Old friends can reconnect with Gary via an email to: gwordlaw@fox8tv.net

Happy 75th birthday to former News Director, past director of broadcasting for the Medill program at Northwestern, and one time RTDNA Treasurer LOU PRATO. Unfortunately for this loyal Penn State alum, his birthday was Friday, the day of the verdict in the Sandusky trial. Lou’s reaction is featured in this USA Today story.

Two management departures from KDVR/KWGN-TV in Denver, both benefiting from promotions to other Tribune/Local TV stations. RYAN MINNAUGH heads to Indianapolis as Assistant ND for WXIN-TV, the FOX affiliate. And MARC STERNFIELD is moving to KSTU-TV, the FOX affiliate in Salt Lake City, also as Assistant ND. (Please note KDVR’s ad for a morning EP above.)

Twelve electronic journalists, including one ND, DERRALL STALVEY from WRCB-TV in Chattanooga, have been awarded fellowships to study in Germany this year. It’s all part of the RTDNA/Rias program. More here.

Our Full List of News Director Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, June 24, 2012.

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

WABC-TV 7 Lincoln Square                          New York, NY 10023
WCAU-TV 10 Monument Road                    Bala Cynwyd PA 19004
KIRO-TV 2807 Third Ave.                            Seattle WA 98121
WFTS-TV 4045 N. Himes Ave.                 Tampa FL 33607 (see ad above!)
WKYC-TV 1333 Lakeside Ave.                      Cleveland OH 44114
KCRA-TV 3 Television Circle                        Sacramento CA 95814
XETV 8253 Ronson Rd.                                  San Diego CA 92111
WCMH-TV3165 Olentangy River Rd.    Columbus OH 43202
WDJT-TV 809 S. 60th St.                              Milwaukee WI 53214
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane                 Las Vegas NV 89101
WPMT-TV 2005 S. Queen Street              York PA 17403
KXAN-TV 908 W. MLK Blvd.                       Austin TX 78701
WTLV/WJXX 1070 E. Adams St.                 Jacksonville FL 32202
KJRH-TV 3701 South Peoria Ave.               Tulsa OK 74105
KOTV 302 S. Frankfort St.                          Tulsa OK 74120
KSNW-TV 833 N. Main                                 Wichita, KS 67203
KRBK-TV (apply to corporate)                      Springfield, MO
WKOW-TV 5727 Tokay Boulevard              Madison WI 53719
KGAN-TV 600-2 Old Marion Rd NE           Cedar Rapids IA 52402
KWQC-TV, 805 Brady Street                         Davenport, IA 52803
KHBS/KHOG-TV 2809 Ajax Ave. #200    Rogers AR 72758
KHGI-TV 13 S. Highway 44                          Kearney NE 66848
KNOE-TV 1400 Oliver Rd.                             Monroe, LA 71211
KAAL-TV 1701 10th Place, NE                      Austin MN 55912
WVNS-TV  141 Old Cline Rd.                    Ghent WV 25843 (see ad above!)
WJHG-TV 8195 Front Beach Rd.           Panama City Beach FL 32407
KECI/KTVM-TV 340 W. Main St.               Missoula MT 59802
KKCO-TV 2325 Interstate Ave.                     Grand Junction CO 81505
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                  Laredo TX 78045
KGWN-TV 2923 E. Lincolnway                   Cheyenne WY 82001
KSAX-TV PO Box 189                                     Alexandria MN 56308

June 17, 2012

Greetings:

It was great to see a few more news directors at this week’s IRE conference. Still not enough NDs there in my opinion, but a step in the right direction. Plan now for next year’s IRE conference in San Antonio from June 20-23, 2013.

This week’s report contains THREE new vacancies, all in large markets, while we have TWO new ND’s.

That brings our count of open ND positions to 31.

Make sure to read our Names in the News section, where you can see learn about all the National Edward R. Murrow Award winners (and find a link which will allow you to watch all the winners.) While there, you’ll also learn about two newly named GMs who served as news directors. And we’ll tell you about the passing of the brother of a longtime ND.

All that, and more, after this week’s changes:

New News Director Openings:

WJLA-TV, Washington, DC…this opening was one of three we reported to you earlier this week. ALEX LIKOWSKI left this Albritton-owned ABC affiliate after six years as ND. He also had been the ND for the co-owned cable channel owned by Albritton, NewsChannel 8. He worked for the company for close to 20 years in a variety of roles.

Culver

WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL…DOUG CULVER announced his resignation on Monday, telling surprised colleagues that he was leaving for ‘a great new opportunity’ that he wasn’t yet able to disclose. Doug spent more than three years as ND for this Scripps owned ABC affiliate. He’s also been an EP at WJLA-TV in Washington, Assistant ND at KIRO-TV in Seattle, and an EP for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles. (BILL LORD was the ND at each of those stations. Bill’s now the GM at WJLA-TV in Washington, which, as you may have noted above, has an ND opening. Probably just a coincidence.)

Williams

KCRA-TV, Sacramento, FL…ANZIO WILLIAMS‘s last day is Monday after five years as ND for this Hearst-owned NBC affiliate. GM ELLIOTT TROSHINSKY told the staff in a Monday email said that Anzio “has expressed a desire to pursue some other career interests and opportunities and he and I have agreed that now would be the appropriate time for him to do so.” Anzio worked for Hearst stations in Cincinnati, Orlando, and as an ND in New Orleans. He’s also worked in Charlotte, Miami, and Greensboro, NC.

Newly Named News Directors:

Pazdernik

WACH-TV, Columbia, SC…KEVIN PAZDERNIK has been promoted to ND for this Barrington Broadcasting owned FOX affiliate. He’s been the Assignment Editor/interim ND there. He first joined the station in 2009. Kevin’s also worked for WIS-TV in Columbia and worked as a communications aide to former South Carolina Governor MARK SANFORD. He began his career in his native Wisconsin. Kevin succeeds BRYAN COX who left the station last October.

Boxx

WRBL-TV, Columbus, GA…PERRY BOXX will start June 25th as ND for this Media General owned CBS affiliate. We told you two weeks ago that Perry was leaving his job as ND for WKOW-TV in Madison, WI, where he’d been ND since 2008. Perry tells me the move brings him closer to his adult son and daughter. He’s a former ND in Charleston, SC, Savannah, Oklahoma City, Kalamazoo-Grand Rapids, Birmingham, Nashville, Corpus Christi, and Las Vegas, and has also worked in Little Rock and St. Louis. He replaces STEVE KORIOTH who was promoted to ND for Media General’s WBTW-TV in Myrtle Beach. Ironically, Steve had worked for Perry in Madison.

Help Wanted Ads:

Montana NBC News Director, Missoula, MT:

Bonten Media Group has an opening for a knowledgeable, experienced, and goal-oriented News Director to manage news operations across 4 Montana properties and across 2 DMAs: Missoula/Kalispell (KECI) and Butte/Bozeman (KTVM). The position is based out of Missoula, MT. (KECI).

The News Director must be capable of handling multiple tasks. The News Director position is primarily responsible for the day-to-day operations of the television newsrooms and websites, budgeting, hiring of newsroom personnel, successful execution of station plans, and maintenance of journalistic and legal standards. In addition, the News Director position is responsible for team-building, motivation, teaching and mentoring diverse newsrooms across our Montana properties.

The News Director must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Organization and time management skills are a must. Position reports directly to VP/General Manager. A minimum of one year News Director experience is highly preferred, however Assistant News Director will be considered.

If you wish to work for a company that rewards excellence and you are a motivated, goal-oriented self-starter, please contact Parker Harms via email: pharms@keci.com

No phone calls please.

Bonten Media Group is an equal opportunity employer.

Morning Executive Producer, KGTV, San Diego, CA:

KGTV, San Diego’s ABC Affiliate, is seeking an experienced Morning Executive News Producer. This position is responsible for managing the content and showcasing across multiple platforms, ensuring the station is competitive within the market.

• Must have a strong journalistic sense, knowledge of what makes news, and interests people.
• Proven ability to use audience research to develop and execute an action plan
• Create tactics and strategies to increase demo performance in key target areas for multiple platforms
• Knowledge and demonstration of editorial judgment, journalistic ethics, and libel laws
• Drive content and presentation across multiple platforms to include television, web, and social media
• Enhance and support content with graphics, video and station branding
• Supervise pre-production to ensure quality and ethical standards and coordination between Control Room and design staff
• Supervise the writing of content, including but not limited to teases and web headlines
• Manage schedules, overtime and performance for assigned direct reports, including but not limited to yearly reviews
• Monitor web analytics to enhance user experience, site stickiness, and engagement
• Have working knowledge of federal, state and local laws impacting operations
• Ability to meet deadlines and work with a wide range of personalities. At least three years of news line producing experience with a commercial news operation required.

College degree required.

If interested in this opportunity, please apply online at scripps.com/careers Requisition # 4786

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

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (relisted 4/20/12)
WXIN-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/12/12)
KSTU-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted this week)
WXMI-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 5/26/11)
WMC-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 6/10/12)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 4/20/12)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 6/1/12)
KVLY/KXJB-TV, Fargo, ND (listed 5/4/11)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KDFW-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KPRC-TV, Houston, TX (listing revised 5/4/11)
WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 5/4/11)
KOIN-TV, Portland OR (PM EP, listed 4/7/12)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KGTV, San Diego, CA (AM EP, listed 6/10/12, see ad above!)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (AM EP, listed 5/18/12)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/27/12)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)
WROC-TV, Rochester, NY (listed 6/1/12)
KBAK/KBFX-TV, Bakersfield, CA (AM EP, listed 5/26/12)
WCYB-TV, Bristol, VA (relisted 4/20/12)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 4/27/12)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)

Names in the News:

The National Edward R. Murrow Award winners were announced this week, and two Hearst stations won the honors for Overall Excellence. WCVB-TV in Boston won the large market award, while the nod for small market TV went to KCCI-TV in Des Moines. There were lots of other winners, of course, and you can read the entire list here.

Two longtime news directors are moving up the GM ranks:

Pimentel

MARK PIMENTEL has been named GM of Belo’s KMOV-TV in St. Louis. He’s a former ND in Atlanta, Baltimore, and Charleston, SC. Mark also worked in newsrooms in Boston, Raleigh, and Dayton. This is his fourth GM’s job: he’s currently in that role at Belo’s WHAS-TV in Louisville, and earlier served as a GM in Richmond, VA and Huntsville, AL. His promotion was one of two GMs promoted by Belo last week. The company also promoted TOD SMITH to GM for WWL-TV in New Orleans from GM at WVEC-TV in Norfolk.

Middleton

And congratulations to NEIL MIDDLETON who is assuming additional duties as GM for Gray Television’s WYMT-TV in Hazard, KY. He’s been the ND there for the past ten years, and will continue (at least for now) with both titles. Neil began his career as a reporter for WYMT and (with the exception of a two year stint at sister-station WVLT-TV in Knoxville) has worked there for his entire career. The company also promoted STEVE HENSLEY to Assistant ND. He’s currently the EP, and also anchors for this CBS affiliate.

Apologies to SHAWANA PERRY whose first name we misspelled last week in our report on her move to Evening EP for WHIO-TV in Dayton.

Our sympathy to longtime newsman TONY BALLEW, now retired, on the death of his brother, ALBY BALLEW. He died in Cleveland on June 9th, six months after being diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus. Alby was 60 and retired from the Cuyahoga County auditors office. Tony spent the last two months in Cleveland to be with his brother. Your kind note would be appreciated: desertmediaguy@yahoo.com

Our Full List of News Director Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Saturday, June 16, 2012.

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

WABC-TV 7 Lincoln Square                          New York, NY 10023
WCAU-TV 10 Monument Road                    Bala Cynwyd PA 19004
WJLA-TV 1100 Wilson Blvd.                 Arlington VA 22209
KIRO-TV 2807 Third Ave.                            Seattle WA 98121
WFTS-TV 4045 N. Himes Ave.             Tampa FL 33607
WKYC-TV 1333 Lakeside Ave.                     Cleveland OH 44114
KCRA-TV 3 Television Circle                 Sacramento CA 95814
XETV 8253 Ronson Rd.                                   San Diego CA 92111
WDJT-TV 809 S. 60th St.                              Milwaukee WI 53214
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane                 Las Vegas NV 89101
KXAN-TV 908 W. MLK Blvd.                       Austin TX 78701
WTLV/WJXX 1070 E. Adams St.                 Jacksonville FL 32202
KJRH-TV 3701 South Peoria Ave.               Tulsa OK 74105
KSNW-TV 833 N. Main                                 Wichita, KS 67203
KRBK-TV (apply to corporate)                      Springfield, MO
WKOW-TV 5727 Tokay Boulevard              Madison WI 53719
KGAN-TV 600-2 Old Marion Rd NE           Cedar Rapids IA 52402
KWQC-TV, 805 Brady Street                         Davenport, IA 52803
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Ave.                            Altoona PA 16602
KHBS/KHOG-TV 2809 Ajax Ave. #200    Rogers AR 72758
KHGI-TV 13 S. Highway 44                          Kearney NE 66848
WTXL-TV 1620 Commerce Blvd.                  Midway, FL 32343
WGXA-TV 599 MLK Blvd.                             Macon GA 31201
KNOE-TV 1400 Oliver Rd.                             Monroe, LA 71211
KAAL-TV 1701 10th Place, NE                      Austin MN 55912
WVNS-TV  141 Old Cline Rd.                        Ghent WV 25843
KECI/KTVM-TV 340 W. Main St.        Missoula MT 59802 (see ad above!)
KKCO-TV 2325 Interstate Ave.                     Grand Junction CO 81505
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                  Laredo TX 78045
KGWN-TV 2923 E. Lincolnway                   Cheyenne WY 82001
KSAX-TV PO Box 189                                     Alexandria MN 56308

June 11, 2012

Tuesday, June 12, 2012 UPDATE:

We have two more large market ND changes to share with you.

In Washington, ALEX LIKOWSKI has left WJLA-TV. That’s the Albritton-owned ABC affiliate.  He’s been ND there for six years, and previously had run the Albritton owned NewsChannel 8 cable news operation there.

Culver

And a bit of a surprise from Tampa, where DOUG CULVER has announced he’s leaving WFTS-TV for a great new opportunity…but hasn’t as yet said where or what that is. Doug’s been the ND for this Scripps-owned ABC affiliate for more than three years.

Before that, he worked as an EP for WJLA-TV in Washington, where current Station Manager BILL LORD was the ND.  He also worked with Lord at KIRO-TV in Seattle when Bill was the ND and Doug was the Assistant ND.

Interestingly, both WJLA and KIRO currently have news director openings.

Doug also worked for eight years as an EP for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles (which coincidentally has a new ND, TODD MOKHTARI, who started there on Monday.)

More on an already very busy week in our regular full edition this weekend, which may be delayed by our attendance at the IRE Convention in Boston.

Monday, June 11, 2012 UPDATE:

Williams

A surprising development late today from Sacramento, where longtime KCRA-TV News Director ANZIO WILLIAMS announced he is leaving that Hearst-owned NBC affiliate next Monday.

In an email to staff, GM ELLIOTT TROSHINSKY said that Anzio “has expressed a desire to pursue some other career interests and opportunities and he and I have agreed that now would be the appropriate time for him to do so.”

He’s been ND there since 2007, spent two years before that as ND for Hearst’s WDSU-TV in New Orleans, and 18 months before that as the Assistant ND for another Hearst station, WESH-TV in Orlando.

Anzio also has worked in Charlotte, Miami, Cincinnati, and Greensboro, NC.

More on this move and all the week’s developments in our regular weekly edition this weekend. A reminder that we may be delayed this weekend by travel to the annual IRE convention.

Greetings:

We’re a little late with this week’s report, and may well be next week due to my travel to the annual IRE conference in Boston. (If you’ve never gone, you should.)

Despite the delay, we have lots to report. Just ONE new ND to my knowledge, but THREE new openings, bringing the list of openings to 30.

One of those new openings is featured in a paid ad below, along with a new ad for a morning EP position in a very desirable California market. And we are repeating ads for an EP in New York State and an Assistant News Director in North Carolina.

And we welcome back CGS Automation as an advertiser. We thank them for their support, and you can thank them by checking their ad below.

A former Dallas and Birmingham ND died this past week. We have his obituary below. And a number of moves by news managers in Names in the News, and we also have “Bobs in the News” this week…stories about two former NDs, one with a new job and one who’s written a new book.

All that, and more, after this week’s changes:

New News Director Openings:

KIRO-TV, Seattle, WA…as we reported earlier this week, TODD MOKHTARI is leaving this Cox-owned CBS affiliate to become VP/News for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles. It’s Todd’s second time at KNBC: he served as Managing Editor there for one year before taking the job in Seattle five years ago. More on that below.

WDJT-TV, Milwaukee, WI…long time news director GRANT UITII is leaving this Weigel owned CBS affiliate. He’s been ND here since 2000. Grant’s a former ND in Champaign, IL, and also worked in the Cape Girardeau market. You may remember we reported the passing of his wife CHERYL last December after she lost her battle with brain cancer.

Dunster

NBC Montana, Missoula, MT…SEAN DUNSTER is leaving this unique operation after not quite a year as ND here. The ND here oversees four NBC affiliates owned by Bonten Media across two markets. (Learn more in the paid help wanted ad below.) Sean is returning to his native Ohio as Newsroom Technology Manager for WHIO-TV in Dayton. He previously spent 22 years working for WCPO-TV in Cincinnati. (Some of you may have known his father George, a longtime ND in Lima, OH.) Sean’s replacement here will be the third news director in just over two years.

Newly Named News Director:

Mokhtari

KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, CA…TODD MOKHTARI returns home to Los Angeles and this NBC o-and-o as VP of News. We told you above that he’s spent the last five years as ND for KIRO-TV, the Cox owned CBS affiliate in Seattle. Before Seattle, he’d been the Managing Editor for KNBC. Todd began his career in Sacramento, then become the first ND for KCPQ-TV in Seattle 1997. He then moved to NBC’s KNTV in San Jose/San Francisco as Assistant ND before his first stint at KNBC. Todd will be the fourth ND in four years there. He replaces VICKI BURNS who left in March saying she wanted to live east of the Mississippi.

Help Wanted Ads:

Montana NBC News Director, Missoula, MT:

Bonten Media Group has an opening for a knowledgeable, experienced, and goal-oriented News Director to manage news operations across 4 Montana properties and across 2 DMAs: Missoula/Kalispell (KECI) and Butte/Bozeman (KTVM). The position is based out of Missoula, MT. (KECI).

The News Director must be capable of handling multiple tasks. The News Director position is primarily responsible for the day-to-day operations of the television newsrooms and websites, budgeting, hiring of newsroom personnel, successful execution of station plans, and maintenance of journalistic and legal standards. In addition, the News Director position is responsible for team-building, motivation, teaching and mentoring diverse newsrooms across our Montana properties.

The News Director must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Organization and time management skills are a must. Position reports directly to VP/General Manager. A minimum of one year News Director experience is highly preferred, however Assistant News Director will be considered.

If you wish to work for a company that rewards excellence and you are a motivated, goal-oriented self-starter, please contact Parker Harms via email: pharms@keci.com

No phone calls please.

Bonten Media Group is an equal opportunity employer.

Morning Executive Producer, KGTV, San Diego, CA:

KGTV, San Diego’s ABC Affiliate, is seeking an experienced Morning Executive News Producer. This position is responsible for managing the content and showcasing across multiple platforms, ensuring the station is competitive within the market.

• Must have a strong journalistic sense, knowledge of what makes news, and interests people.
• Proven ability to use audience research to develop and execute an action plan
• Create tactics and strategies to increase demo performance in key target areas for multiple platforms
• Knowledge and demonstration of editorial judgment, journalistic ethics, and libel laws
• Drive content and presentation across multiple platforms to include television, web, and social media
• Enhance and support content with graphics, video and station branding
• Supervise pre-production to ensure quality and ethical standards and coordination between Control Room and design staff
• Supervise the writing of content, including but not limited to teases and web headlines
• Manage schedules, overtime and performance for assigned direct reports, including but not limited to yearly reviews
• Monitor web analytics to enhance user experience, site stickiness, and engagement
• Have working knowledge of federal, state and local laws impacting operations
• Ability to meet deadlines and work with a wide range of personalities. At least three years of news line producing experience with a commercial news operation required.

College degree required.

If interested in this opportunity, please apply online at scripps.com/careers Requisition # 4786

Executive Producer, WROC-TV, Rochester, NY:

WROC-TV, Rochester, NY has an immediate opening for Executive Producer to plan, implement and oversee our growing Newscasts. The successful EP candidate will oversee a team of producers, anchors, reporters, photographers and editors to produce the #1 primetime newscasts in the market. Primary responsibilities include: Advance segment planning and coordination, daily show reviews with producers, including critiquing writing and training. Planning and overseeing continuity into upcoming newscasts. Applicants must be able to drive content on television, on the web, and on social media outlets. 6 Years of news producing experience required.

Qualifications: Four-year degree in journalism or communications preferred and a minimum of 6 years related experience. Strong writing skills and attention to detail a must with a proven track record for getting results on initiatives. Great leadership and people skills with an emphasis on coaching and motivating, and multi-media news experience are preferred.

Salary: Competitive                     Start Date: Immediate

Apply to:

Bryan Queen
News Director
WROC-TV
201 Humboldt Street
Rochester, NY 14610
585-287-8060

or via email to: bqueen@wroctv.com

WROC/WUHF-TV IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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

Assistant News Director, WCTI-TV, Greenville-New Bern, NC:

Newschannel 12 & FOX Eastern Carolina is looking for an Assistant News Director to help lead a dynamic newsroom. We just won the AP Outstanding News Operation in North Carolina.

Here is a great opportunity to earn those senior manager stripes. You will work closely with the news director in all aspects of running this ABC and FOX High Definition News Department.

Duties include:  Supervising newscast producers, reporters and photographers. You’ll be instrumental in building and executing a successful strategic plan. The qualified candidate will be a fantastic coach of energetic producers, reporters and photographers.  Three Years producing or Assignment Desk experience required along with a college degree.

Send resume and newscast DVD or link to: smoreland@wcti12.com.

or via mail to:

Shane Moreland
News Director
WCTI-TV
225 Glenburnie Dr.
New Bern, NC 28560

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

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (relisted 4/20/12)
WXIN-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/12/12)
KSTU-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 4/27/12)
WXMI-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 5/26/11)
WMC-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted this week)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 4/20/12)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 6/1/12, see ad above!)
KVLY/KXJB-TV, Fargo, ND (listed 5/4/11)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KDFW-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KPRC-TV, Houston, TX (listing revised 5/4/11)
WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 5/4/11)
KOIN-TV, Portland OR (PM EP, listed 4/7/12)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KGTV, San Diego, CA (AM EP, new listing this week, see ad above!)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (AM EP, listed 5/18/12)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/27/12)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)
WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (PM EP, 3/17/12)
WROC-TV, Rochester, NY (listed 6/1/12, see ad above!)
KBAK/KBFX-TV, Bakersfield, CA (AM EP, listed 5/26/12)
WCYB-TV, Bristol, VA (relisted 4/20/12)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 4/27/12)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)

Obituary:

Harris

WENDELL HARRIS, a former ND in Birmingham and Dallas, died earlier this week after a long illness. He was 78. Wendell began his career as a radio reporter in Birmingham before moving to what is now WVTM-TV there, working as a reporter, assignment editor, anchor and eventually ND. He later served as the GM for KTBC-TV in Austin and ND for KDFW-TV in Dallas. Wendell is survived by his wife and three daughters.

Names in the News:

Hilk

WSMV-TV (Nashville) ND MATTHEW HILK is assuming some additional duties for that Meredith-owned NBC affiliate. His new title is Director of News and Creative Services, and he’ll take on additional duties overseeing promotions, marketing, and graphics. Matthew’s been ND there for six years, and has also worked in Pittsburgh, Birmingham, Orlando, Louisville, Charleston, WV, and Oak Hill, VA

WHIO-TV in Dayton has two new EPs. SHAWANA PERRY is the new Evening EP. She most recently has worked in Salt Lake City, and previously worked in Hartford, Providence, and Springfield, MA. And QUINCY WALLACE has been promoted to Morning EP. She’ll oversee the noon news as well. Quincy is a ten year veteran at WHIO who has been producing the station’s 5:30 newscast.

WEYI-TV in Flint/Saginaw, MI, has hired NEILLE GIFFUNE as its Assistant News Director. She’s currently a sports reporter and anchor for WFMZ-TV in Allentown, PA. Neille has also worked in Elmira, NY, Billings, MT, and Springfield, MA, where she worked with WEYI’s news director KATHY REYNOLDS.

Two retired news directors are in the news:

Brunner

BOB BRUNNER, who’s served as ND and anchor for a number of stations before retiring last year, has self-published a new book, “Bob Brunner’s Reporter’s Recollections”. Bob spent 32 years as an anchor and manager in Charleston, WV, and of course is a past RTNDA chairman. Learn more about his book in this article from the Charleston Gazette.

Howell

And BOB HOWELL, who recently retired after many years at WSFA-TV in Montgomery, AL, has been chosen to run a new communications operation at Alabama State University. He’ll oversee the formation of the Center for Applied Communications Media at ASU. Bob retired at the end of the May book from WSFA after 32 years there.

Our Full List of News Director Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, June 10, 2012.

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

WABC-TV 7 Lincoln Square                          New York, NY 10023
WCAU-TV 10 Monument Road                    Bala Cynwyd PA 19004
KIRO-TV 2807 Third Ave.                           Seattle WA 98121
WKYC-TV 1333 Lakeside Ave.                       Cleveland OH 44114
XETV 8253 Ronson Rd.                                   San Diego CA 92111
WDJT-TV 809 S. 60th St.                              Milwaukee WI 53214
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane                  Las Vegas NV 89101
KXAN-TV 908 W. MLK Blvd.                       Austin TX 78701
WTLV/WJXX 1070 E. Adams St.                 Jacksonville FL 32202
KJRH-TV 3701 South Peoria Ave.               Tulsa OK 74105
KSNW-TV 833 N. Main                                 Wichita, KS 67203
KRBK-TV (apply to corporate)                      Springfield, MO
WACH-TV 1400 Pickens St.                          Columbia SC 29201
WKOW-TV 5727 Tokay Boulevard              Madison WI 53719
KGAN-TV 600-2 Old Marion Rd NE           Cedar Rapids IA 52402
KWQC-TV, 805 Brady Street                         Davenport, IA 52803
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Ave.                            Altoona PA 16602
KHBS/KHOG-TV 2809 Ajax Ave. #200    Rogers AR 72758
KHGI-TV 13 S. Highway 44                          Kearney NE 66848
WTXL-TV 1620 Commerce Blvd.                  Midway, FL 32343
WGXA-TV 599 MLK Blvd.                             Macon GA 31201
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave.                             Columbus GA 31901
KNOE-TV 1400 Oliver Rd.                             Monroe, LA 71211
KAAL-TV 1701 10th Place, NE                      Austin MN 55912
WVNS-TV  141 Old Cline Rd.                        Ghent WV 25843
KECI/KTVM-TV 340 W. Main St.               Missoula MT 59802 (see ad above!)
KKCO-TV 2325 Interstate Ave.                     Grand Junction CO 81505
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                  Laredo TX 78045
KGWN-TV 2923 E. Lincolnway                   Cheyenne WY 82001
KSAX-TV PO Box 189                                     Alexandria MN 56308

June 2, 2012

Tuesday, June 5, 2012 UPDATE:

Mokhtari

The long vacant ND opening at KNBC-TV in Los Angeles has been filled with news that TODD MOKHTARI will return to Burbank as ND. Todd is currently ND for KIRO-TV, the Cox-owned CBS affiliate in Seattle.

He began his career at KCRA-TV in Sacramento, then moved to Seattle for the first time as the first ND for Fox affiliate KCPQ-TV. He spent five years at KCPQ, four years as the Assistant ND for NBC’s KNTV in San Jose/San Francisco before moving to KNBC as Managing Editor, a job he held for one year before returning to Seattle as ND for KIRO more than five years ago.

He’ll be the fourth ND at KNBC in four years, replacing VICKIE BURNS who resigned in March, saying she wanted to return east of the Mississippi.

More on this move and all the week’s developments in our regular weekly edition this weekend.

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

Lots of activity this week, much of it involving longtime news directors, some in top five markets.

In all, we have FOUR new ND openings, with just ONE newly named news director in our report. That brings our count of open ND jobs to 28.

We also have three paid help wanted ads: one for an EP in New York state, one for an Assistant ND in North Carolina, and we’re repeating last week’s ad for a position at Penn State University.

There are two obituaries: one for a 50 year veteran of the Philadelphia market, the other for a GM who spent 31 years at McGraw-Hill before retiring last year.

And Names in the News brings news of a retirement of a longtime Los Angeles newsman.

All that, and more, after this week’s changes:

New News Director Openings:

Plotnik

WABC-TV, New York, NY…we first reported in a mid-week UPDATE that KENNY PLOTNIK was leaving this ABC o-and-o today. He emailed his staff that his wife’s retirement from nursing “sparked my interest in looking elsewhere for career challenges.” Kenny worked for 25 years at WABC, the last ten as ND. He previously worked for the company at WPVI-TV in Philadelphia, and began his career in Buffalo.

Blackman

WCAU-TV, Philadelphia, PA…in another story we told you about earlier, longtime NBC employee CHRIS BLACKMAN is leaving this o-and-o later this month. He told the staff that he and new GM ERIC LERNER agreed that it was time for new leadership, new ideas, and a new perspective. Chris joined WCAU in 2001 as assistant ND, and was promoted to ND early in 2002. He spent 25 years working for NBC in a variety of roles.

Boxx

WKOW-TV, Madison, WI…PERRY BOXX is leaving this Quincy owned ABC affiliate to take a new job which he tells me should be announced next week. He’s been the ND here since 2008, and previously was a ND in Charleston, SC, Savannah, Oklahoma City, Kalamazoo-Grand Rapids, Birmingham, Nashville, Corpus Christi, and Las Vegas. He’s also worked in Little Rock and St. Louis.

WGXA-TV, Macon, GA…GEORGE JOBIN is leaving this FOX affiliate on August 1st. He’s been ND here for the last two years in his second stint at WGXA. George earlier worked there from 1992-2001, first in sports, then as Assignment Editor and EP, and eventually Station Manager. He also was GM for WMGT-TV in Macon. WGXA is owned by Frontier Radio Management.

Newly Named News Director:

Moreno

WBIR-TV, Knoxville, TN…CHRISTY MORENO has been named ND for this Gannett-owned NBC affiliate. She’s spent the last five years as the Assistant ND for KENS-TV in San Antonio. Christy earlier worked for KRIV-TV in Houston as a producer and EP, and also worked for KPRC-TV in Houston and in Wichita Falls.. At WBIR, she replaces BILL SHORY who left the station in March after eight years as ND.

Help Wanted Ads:

Executive Producer, WROC-TV, Rochester, NY:

WROC-TV, Rochester, NY has an immediate opening for Executive Producer to plan, implement and oversee our growing Newscasts. The successful EP candidate will oversee a team of producers, anchors, reporters, photographers and editors to produce the #1 primetime newscasts in the market. Primary responsibilities include: Advance segment planning and coordination, daily show reviews with producers, including critiquing writing and training. Planning and overseeing continuity into upcoming newscasts. Applicants must be able to drive content on television, on the web, and on social media outlets. 6 Years of news producing experience required.

Qualifications: Four-year degree in journalism or communications preferred and a minimum of 6 years related experience. Strong writing skills and attention to detail a must with a proven track record for getting results on initiatives. Great leadership and people skills with an emphasis on coaching and motivating, and multi-media news experience are preferred.

Salary: Competitive                     Start Date: Immediate

Apply to:

Bryan Queen
News Director
WROC-TV
201 Humboldt Street
Rochester, NY 14610
585-287-8060

or via email to: bqueen@wroctv.com

WROC/WUHF-TV IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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

Assistant News Director, WCTI-TV, Greenville-New Bern, NC:

Newschannel 12 & FOX Eastern Carolina is looking for an Assistant News Director to help lead a dynamic newsroom. We just won the AP Outstanding News Operation in North Carolina.

Here is a great opportunity to earn those senior manager stripes. You will work closely with the news director in all aspects of running this ABC and FOX High Definition News Department.

Duties include:  Supervising newscast producers, reporters and photographers. You’ll be instrumental in building and executing a successful strategic plan. The qualified candidate will be a fantastic coach of energetic producers, reporters and photographers.  Three Years producing or Assignment Desk experience required along with a college degree.

Send resume and newscast DVD or link to: smoreland@wcti12.com.

or via mail to:

Shane Moreland
News Director
WCTI-TV
225 Glenburnie Dr.
New Bern, NC 28560

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

Director of Student TV and Online Operations, Penn St.:

Penn State’s College of Communications is seeking a Director of Student Television and Online Operations beginning in August 2012.

Primary responsibilities include teaching at least one course in television news reporting and producing each semester, serving as executive producer of a weekly, student-staffed television news magazine program, and overseeing the College’s website for student media. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of professional media experience, including managerial experience as an executive producer, associate news director, or news director. Teaching experience would be considered a plus. All candidates must have at least a Bachelor’s degree.

Learn more about Penn State and the College of Communications by clicking here. And see the College’s website for student-produced work here.

Send a letter describing qualifications, a resume detailing relevant experience and the names, addresses, and phone numbers of three to five references to:

Search Committee-TV/Online Director
College of Communications
Penn State
201 Carnegie Building
University Park PA 16802

Screening of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

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

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (relisted 4/20/12)
WXIN-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/12/12)
KSTU-TV, Salt Lake City, UT (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 4/27/12)
WXMI-TV, Grand Rapids, MI (listed 5/26/11)
WMC-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 3/3/12)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (relisted 4/20/12)
WEYI-TV, Flint, MI (listed 4/20/12)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted this week, see ad above!)
KVLY/KXJB-TV, Fargo, ND (listed 5/4/11)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KDFW-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, relisted 4/20/12)
KPRC-TV, Houston, TX (listing revised 5/4/11)
WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 5/4/11)
KOIN-TV, Portland OR (PM EP, listed 4/7/12)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted 4/20/12)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC (listed 3/24/12)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, listed 3/31/12)
WTVF-TV, Nashville, TN (AM EP, listed 5/18/12)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (listed 5/12/12)
WITI-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/27/12)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)
WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (PM EP, 3/17/12)
WJXT-TV, Jacksonville, FL (PM EP, listing revised 3/10/12)
WINK-TV, Fort Myers, FL (Dayside EP, relisted 3/10/12)
WROC-TV, Rochester, NY (new listing this week, see ad above!)
KBAK/KBFX-TV, Bakersfield, CA (AM EP, listed 5/26/12)
WCYB-TV, Bristol, VA (relisted 4/20/12)

MANAGING EDITOR:

KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 4/27/12)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (listed 4/20/12)

Obituaries:

Neal

Longtime Philadelphia news manager DAVE NEAL (real name: Dave Gomberg) died earlier this week. He was 86 and had suffered from congestive heart failure and kidney failure. Dave began his 50 year career at KYW Radio in Philadelphia, moved to KYW-TV, worked briefly at WPVI-TV, before spending most of his career at WCAU-TV. He worked as an assignment manager and producer and served as a mentor to many. After he retired from WCAU, he consulted with WTXF-TV there. He’s survived by his wife and three children.

Lundy

DON LUNDY died suddenly yesterday at the age of 67. He spent 31 years working for McGraw-Hill in a variety of roles, including nine as GM of the company’s WRTV in Indianapolis. He began his career in Tulsa, worked in Toledo before coming to WRTV for his first of two stints there.  Don later worked for McGraw-Hill’s KGTV in San Diego and then was promoted to GM for KERO-TV in Bakersfield.  He retired from WRTV about 18 months ago, and he and his wife moved to California to be closer to their children.

Names in the News:

Rios

JOSE RIOS is retiring from FOX. He’s a former ND at the company’s KTTV-TV in Los Angeles. Last year, after 20 years at the station, he left KTTV and was named vice president of digital news applications for the FOX owned stations. He’s also spent 13 years at KCBS-TV in Los Angeles, eventually becoming news director there.

Harold

SUZANNE HAROLD is joining ABC’s WORLD NEWS NOW as a broadcast producer. She’s currently the EP for WRGB-TV in Albany, NY, and previously was an EP for WHTM-TV in Harrisburg, PA. Suzanne’s also worked as a producer for FOX o-and-o’s WFLD-TV in Chicago and WTXF-TV in Philadelphia.

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

Our Full List of News Director Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Friday, June 1, 2012.

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

WABC-TV 7 Lincoln Square                     New York, NY 10023
KNBC-TV 3000 W. Alameda Ave.                 Burbank CA 91523
WCAU-TV 10 Monument Road              Bala Cynwyd PA 19004
WKYC-TV 1333 Lakeside Ave.                       Cleveland OH 44114
XETV 8253 Ronson Rd.                                   San Diego CA 92111
KSNV-TV 1500 Foremaster Lane                  Las Vegas NV 89101
KXAN-TV 908 W. MLK Blvd.                       Austin TX 78701
WTLV/WJXX 1070 E. Adams St.                 Jacksonville FL 32202
KJRH-TV 3701 South Peoria Ave.               Tulsa OK 74105
KSNW-TV 833 N. Main                                 Wichita, KS 67203
KRBK-TV (apply to corporate)                      Springfield, MO
WACH-TV 1400 Pickens St.                          Columbia SC 29201
WKOW-TV 5727 Tokay Boulevard      Madison WI 53719
KGAN-TV 600-2 Old Marion Rd NE           Cedar Rapids IA 52402
KWQC-TV, 805 Brady Street                         Davenport, IA 52803
WTAJ-TV 5000 Sixth Ave.                            Altoona PA 16602
KHBS/KHOG-TV 2809 Ajax Ave. #200    Rogers AR 72758
KHGI-TV 13 S. Highway 44                          Kearney NE 66848
WTXL-TV 1620 Commerce Blvd.                  Midway, FL 32343
WGXA-TV 599 MLK Blvd.                      Macon GA 31201
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave.                             Columbus GA 31901
KNOE-TV 1400 Oliver Rd.                             Monroe, LA 71211
KAAL-TV 1701 10th Place, NE                      Austin MN 55912
WVNS-TV  141 Old Cline Rd.                        Ghent WV 25843
KKCO-TV 2325 Interstate Ave.                     Grand Junction CO 81505
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                  Laredo TX 78045
KGWN-TV 2923 E. Lincolnway                   Cheyenne WY 82001
KSAX-TV PO Box 189                                     Alexandria MN 56308