Rick Gevers & Associates

September 25, 2016

Tuesday, September 27, 2016 UPDATE:

A new news director today in a top 25 market.

Nadell

SUZANNE NADELL moves within Cox to become news director for WPXI-TV, the company’s NBC affiliate in Pittsburgh.

She’s been the ND for Cox’s KOKI-TV in Tulsa for more than three years, and earlier worked for Cox stations in Atlanta and Orlando.

This note from General Manager RAY CARTER outlines the rest of her background and praises some of the applicants who made his decision difficult.

Suzanne replaces MIKE OLIVEIRA who was also promoted within the company. He became ND for WFXT-TV in Boston back in August after three years as ND and eleven at WPXI.

More on this move and all the latest developments in our full newsletter this weekend.

regards,

Rick Gevers

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

Greetings:

FOUR newly named news directors.

TWO new ND openings.

And a total of 17 open ND jobs across the country. But there are 29! EP openings.

That’s the headline for this week’s report.

TWO of those open ND jobs are featured among our FIVE paid help wanted ads this week.

We also have details about two leaders of national journalism organizations, a number of news managers on the move, and some interesting articles I came across on both current and former NDs.

Sadly, we have TWO obituaries. One for a longtime NBC news channel news manager who was married to another NewsChannel exec, and one for the husband of a news director turned agent.

Those stories and more below.

Newly News Director Opening:

KOIN-TV, Portland, OR…KATE GLOVER is leaving this Media General-about-to-be Nexstar-owned CBS affiliate to return to Buffalo as ND for WGRZ-TV. More on that below.

KMVT-TV, Twin Falls, ID…this Gray Television owned CBS affiliate is advertising for a news director to replace CHRIS HUSTON. Chris just started here about a year ago. You can learn more about this opportunity in the paid help wanted ad below.

And while it’s not a new opening, please note another ad below for this open news director’s job at WTEN-TV in Albany, NY.

Newly Named News Directors:

  Glover

WGRZ-TV, Buffalo, NY…KATE GLOVER returns to Buffalo as news director for this Tegna owned NBC affiliate. She’s been the ND for KOIN-TV in Portland, OR, for just over two years. That’s one of the Media General stations about to be acquired by Nexstar. Kate began her career in both radio and TV in Buffalo. This memo from GM JIM TOELLNER outlines the rest of her career moves. Kate replaces JEFF WOODARD who left the station in June for a job in marketing and communications at Fredonia State College, his alma mater.

Roach

WKEF/WRGT-TV, Dayton, OH…he’s back! KEVIN ROACH returns to Dayton as the ND for this Sinclair Broadcasting owned ABC/FOX duopoly. It’s also a reunion with GM LISA BARHORST: they held the same jobs at WDTN-TV in Dayton about ten years ago. Kevin’s also worked as a news director for WXIX-TV in Cincinnati. His Linkedin page has his complete and varied work history. Kevin replaces POLLY VAN DOREN-ORR who left in June in search of a job closer to her native Missouri.

Thomason

KMID/KPEJ-TV, Midland, TX…we’re a little late in reporting the promotion of TYLER THOMASON to news director for this Nexstar operated ABC/FOX duopoly. He’s been an anchor here but is now concentrating only on the news director job. His station bio (which still includes his now concluded anchor duties) is here. Tyler replaces JAY REYNOLDS who left the stations in February after just over two years as ND.

Parker

KCAU-TV, Sioux City, IA…JIM PARKER started two weeks ago as the new ND for this Nexstar Broadcasting owned ABC affiliate. Jim’s a former ND in Cedar Rapids, Rockford, IL, and Binghamton, NY. He’s also held management jobs in some large markets, as you’ll see in the note GM JOHN CURRY sent to the staff. Jim also worked in Toledo, where I hired him as a producer. He replaces JACK BROOKS who worked here for eight years, the last 3+ as news director. I’m told he’s taken a job out of the business in eastern Iowa.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WTEN-TV, Albany, NY:

ABC affiliate WTEN-TV in Albany, NY has an immediate need for a News Director.

WTEN also operates a JS&S agreement with WXXA (FOX). Responsibilities include managing a news operation that provides news product to both WTEN and WXXA. Ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills along with a passion for multi-platform news distribution. Knowledge of branding and marketing is essential. Must be able to create and maintain a positive, focused, and competitive culture within the News Department. Work ethic and in-depth knowledge of news coverage will be closely examined.

Experience requirements are minimally an assistant news director. Education requirements are minimally a four year degree in Journalism, Communication, or closely related field.

Qualified candidates should apply online at www.MediaGeneral.com or email resume and cover letter to hr@news10.com.

Drug screen and background check required. Young Broadcasting of Albany is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

News Director, KMVT, Twin Falls, ID:

KMVT-TV, the premiere CBS Affiliate in Twin Falls, Idaho seeks a news leader who loves news, loves to teach, loves to produce and loves to innovate. And by the way did we mention what a great place Twin Falls is? We have fishing, hiking, biking, camping, golfing and skiing. If you have those qualities and want to trade your current surroundings for a great place to live and work this job is for you.

The KMVT News Director will be responsible to continue to meet market leading standards, goals, and tactics for newsroom operations and content. The News Director will also be responsible for recruiting, hiring, coaching, mentoring, supervising and evaluating newsroom personnel. The News Director is also responsible for providing innovative content on all social media platforms. The News Director is expected to work closely with the General Manager and other department managers to achieve the company`s overall performance goals. General knowledge of strategic planning and management of budgets is a plus.

Click here for more detail on this position:

Applicants should have at least 2 years of newsroom management experience, and a 4 year college degree is preferred.

To apply for this position, please submit resume and cover letter electronically at jobs@kmvt.com

KMVT-TV
1100 Blue Lakes Blvd. N.
Twin Falls ID, 83301

KMVT-TV is an equal opportunity employer. Employment discrimination because of race, color, national origin, or sex is prohibited by the FCC and other Federal, State, and Local Agencies. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Pre-employment drug screening is required. Gray Television, d/b/a KMVT-TV participates in E-Verify.

Executive Producer, KWGN-TV, Denver, CO:

WEEKDAY EVENING EXECUTIVE PRODUCER WANTED!

KWGN – Colorado’s first television station and part of Tribune Media’s duopoly in Denver – has more than doubled its evening news presence on TV this year and is looking for a passionate and experienced Executive Producer to lead and oversee our evening newscasts.

We want a strong leader who is aggressive, competitive and creative! We don’t want a stacker. We want someone who will keep the shows updated and fresh. Must be strong with breaking news, good at copy editing, and able to coach producers.

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 product on air and on our digital platforms. You’ve got to own social media! And have the skills to contribute content to our web site. Must have solid news judgment, the ability 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 to ensure our content meets standards for editorial and technical integrity.

Excellent communication skills are a must, as is prior management and major market producing experience.

Interested and qualified candidates are urged to apply on-line by clicking here.

Senior Executive Producer, KRIV-TV, Houston, TX:

Fox 26 KRIV, the Fox O&O in Houston, TX, is seeking a highly competitive and innovative applicant for the position of Senior Executive Producer to oversee day-to- day news operations in the gathering, execution and production of content across multiple-platforms. The primary responsibility of this position is to create timely and compelling content with the highest standards of journalistic accuracy and excellent production values. In addition:

• Be a creative and innovative thinker, content developer and “show doctor”
  Possess strong breaking news skills and control room experience
  Work with news director to recruit talent and train staff
  Be able to communicate goals, motivate the team and commit to measureable results
  Collaborate with executive producer of special projects on unique and promotable content for newscasts, long-form specials and digital platforms.
  Have the ability to produce extensive live coverage whether in the studio or on a live remote
  Serve as liaison for news department with marketing team
  Attend editorial meetings, maintain schedules and perform other duties as assigned

Candidate should have a minimum of 7 years’ experience in a medium to large market news operation producing local or network news. Minimum of 3 years management experience. Knowledge of control room automation, desktop editing, I-news, and Microsoft pc-based systems is preferred. Bachelor’s Degree required. Valid driver’s license required.

Click on this link to apply:

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. EOE/M/F/Veteran/Disabled

Executive Producer, KCTV, Kansas City, MO:

KCTV/KSMO-TV in Kansas City, a CBS affiliate, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, WeatherRate Certified Most Accurate, and over 32 hours of locally produced newscasts each week is seeking an experienced Executive Producer with a proven track record of success.

The Executive Producer will be responsible for the production, execution and overall presentation of our daily newscasts, while providing leadership in the newsroom of a team of reporters, producers, editors and photographers.

Qualified candidates will have three years’ experience producing in a broadcast television news environment. One year of experience as an Executive Producer is required. Successful candidates must have an advanced understanding of legal/ethical issues impacting journalism, excellent verbal/written communication skills, knowledge of locale, governing bodies, demographics and public figures.

Strong self-motivation is needed in this role and the ability to perform high-quality work in high pressure situations. INEWS experience is required as well as the ability to work a flexible schedule.

Please apply at www.meredith.com/careers

EOE

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16)
KNTV, San Francisco/San Jose, CA (listed 9/4/16)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (listed 8/14/16)
KMBC-TV, Kansas City, MO (relisted 8/7/16)
WJXT-TV, Jacksonville, FL (relisted 8/21/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
KEZI-TV, Eugene, OR (relisted 8/21/16)
KTXS-TV, Abilene, TX (listed 8/21/16)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16)
WGCL-TV, Atlanta, GA (2 jobs, Sr. EP & Spec. Projects Sr. EP, new listing this week)
WXYZ-TV, Detroit, MI (Special Projects/Investigative, listed 8/28/16)
KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (Senior EP, listed 9/18/16, see ad above!)
KWGN-TV Denver, CO (new listing this week, see ad above!)
WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (Dayside EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WOIO/WUAB-TV, Cleveland, OH (listed 9/18/16)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (Dayside EP, listed 8/28/16)
WBTV, Charlotte, NC (listed 8/7/16)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC (AM EP, listed 8/14/16)
KPTV, Portland, OR (relisted 9/11/16)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (two openings, listing modified 9/18/16)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (PM EP, relisted 9/18/16, see ad above!)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
KLAS-TV, Las Vegas, NV (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
WFOX/WJAX-TV, Jacksonville, FL (AM EP, listed 8/21/16)
KOAT-TV, Albuquerque, NM (PM EP, relisted 9/4/16)
KOB-TV, Albuquerque, NM (relisted this week)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 8/14/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listing revised 8/21/16)
WVLT-TV, Knoxville, TN (AM EP, listing revised 8/28/16)
WOWK-TV, Charleston/Huntington, WV (relisted 9/11/16)
WAAY-TV, Huntsville, AL (PM EP, relisted 8/21/16)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted this week)
KIVI-TV, Boise, ID (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listing revised 9/11/16)

MANAGING EDITOR:

NBC Boston (relisted 9/18/16)

Obituaries:

Von Essen

JEANEE VON ESSEN, Director of Foreign News for NBC NewsChannel and wife of longtime NewsChannel executive BOB HORNER died Sunday, September 18 at the age of 68. She died of complications from a fall suffered earlier this summer. Bob sent me this very heartfelt note and asked that I share it with you. For the past 26 years, Jeanee worked for NewsChannel. And she was a very early employee of CNN. Please join me in thinking of Bob in the days ahead. Your kind note of sympathy would reach Bob at robert.horner@nbcuni.com

DAN GERSON, husband of news director turned talent agent NANCY SHAFRAN, died last week after a long battle with cancer. He was 69. Dan was a criminal defense lawyer with a long history of fighting for the underdog. More on his life and career here. Many of you know Nancy, who was a news director in Jacksonville and Houston. Unbelievably, this is the second time she has lost her husband. Nancy’s husband ALEX died while she was still the ND at KPRC-TV. A note of sympathy can be sent to: NancyShafran@nwtgroup.com

Names in the News:

Libin

Congratulations to old friend SCOTT LIBIN, chosen as the new Chair-Elect of RTDNA at last week’s convention in New Orleans. VINCE DUFFY ascends to Chair of the organization, only the second person to hold that job twice, And several other board members were elected.

LYNN WALSH, EP of Investigations for KNSD-TV in San Diego has been elected President of SPJ at the San Diego Convention.

MARK ZONCA has been hired as EP of the morning news for Fox’s WFLD-TV in Chicago. He’s worked out of TV since 2011, but is a veteran of the market and has also worked in Tampa, Detroit, and Grand Rapids.

Here’s some quick links to stories about current and former news directors:

As part of a series of interviews in its current edition, the Indianapolis Business Journal talks with WRTV news director TERRI COPE-WALTON.

One time CNN correspondent and former Upper Peninsula of Michigan news director BRIAN CABELL is profiled in an article which calls him the operator of the largest news blog in Marquette County, MI.

Former Boise news director MARK BROWNING has a new job at the College of Western Idaho.

General Manager Moves:

ROGER BARE is leaving Houston’s KIAH-TV after 12 years. He’s hoping to stay in Houston and look for new challenges.

After 20 years, JEFF LEE is retiring as GM of Knoxville’s WBIR-TV. More here.

Our Full List of Open ND Jobs:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, September 25, 2016:

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

KTVT-TV 5233 Bridge Street, Fort Worth TX 76103
WPXI-TV 4145 Evergreen Road Pittsburgh PA 15214
KOIN-TV 222 SW Columbia St. Portland OR 97201
WCPO-TV 1720 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202
WIVB-TV, 2077 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY 14207
WTEN-TV 41 Northern Blvd, Albany, NY 12204 (see ad above!)
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WCSH/WLBZ-TV One Congress Square Portland, ME 04101
WAND-TV 904 South Side Drive Decatur, IL 62521
KRDO-TV 399 S. 8th St. Colorado Springs, CO 80905
KIMA/KEPR-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima,WA 98901
KX Network 1811 N 15th Street Bismarck, ND 58501
KARD/KTVE-TV 200 Pavilion Road W. Monroe, LA 71292
KMID/KPEJ-TV 3200 LaForce Boulevard Midland, TX 79711
KMVT-TV 1100 Blue Lakes Blvd. N Twin Falls, ID 83301 (see ad above!)
KEYC-TV 1570 Lookout Dr, North Mankato, MN 56003
KYOU-TV 820 W Second St. Ottumwa IA 52501

* Spanish language station

September 18, 2016

Greetings:

This week’s report comes to you from New Orleans, host of this year’s EIJ/RTDNA convention. Great to see some of you here, including at the CNN sponsored opening reception tonight.

On to business.

ONE up, ONE down. Or perhaps it should be ONE hired, ONE leaving.

I speak, of course, of news director changes in this week’s newsletter. Those moves means our list of open ND jobs stays at 17. And one of those changes is in the second market.

We have Paid Help Wanted ads for FIVE Executive Producer positions in a wide range of markets. Sense a trend there?

There’s an obituary for a former Kentucky general manger and station owned, a handful of news managers on the move, and a GM change in a top 15 market.

All that and more below!

Newly News Director Opening:

  Miller

WTEN-TV, Albany, NY…MATT MILLER is leaving this Media General but soon to be owned by Nexstar ABC affiliate to return home to Cincinnati. He’s taken a job as Talent Acquisition Lead for Scripps which, of course, is headquartered there. Matt will help recruit both producers and on-air. He spent just over a year as ND here. He’s worked at all four Cincinnati stations, and a bunch of other places, too.

Newly Named News Director:

Knutsen

KTTV, Los Angeles, CA…the job has been open since June, but this Fox o-and-o has a new news director. It’s KRIS KNUTSEN, a 30+ year veteran of the market. She’s spent the last five years as Assistant ND for Tribune’s KTLA-TV and spent more than 30 years at KNBC-TV, both on the Assignment Desk and as Managing Editor of the Local News Service. Kris replaces BILL MONDORA who left the station in June after just over two years as ND.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Senior Executive Producer, KRIV-TV, Houston, TX:

Fox 26 KRIV, the Fox O&O in Houston, TX, is seeking a highly competitive and innovative applicant for the position of Senior Executive Producer to oversee day-to- day news operations in the gathering, execution and production of content across multiple-platforms. The primary responsibility of this position is to create timely and compelling content with the highest standards of journalistic accuracy and excellent production values. In addition:

• Be a creative and innovative thinker, content developer and “show doctor”
  Possess strong breaking news skills and control room experience
  Work with news director to recruit talent and train staff
  Be able to communicate goals, motivate the team and commit to measureable results
  Collaborate with executive producer of special projects on unique and promotable content for newscasts, long-form specials and digital platforms.
  Have the ability to produce extensive live coverage whether in the studio or on a live remote
  Serve as liaison for news department with marketing team
  Attend editorial meetings, maintain schedules and perform other duties as assigned

Candidate should have a minimum of 7 years’ experience in a medium to large market news operation producing local or network news. Minimum of 3 years management experience. Knowledge of control room automation, desktop editing, I-news, and Microsoft pc-based systems is preferred. Bachelor’s Degree required. Valid driver’s license required.

Click on this link to apply:

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE. EOE/M/F/Veteran/Disabled

Executive Producer, KCTV, Kansas City, MO:

KCTV/KSMO-TV in Kansas City, a CBS affiliate, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, WeatherRate Certified Most Accurate, and over 32 hours of locally produced newscasts each week is seeking an experienced Executive Producer with a proven track record of success.

The Executive Producer will be responsible for the production, execution and overall presentation of our daily newscasts, while providing leadership in the newsroom of a team of reporters, producers, editors and photographers.

Qualified candidates will have three years’ experience producing in a broadcast television news environment. One year of experience as an Executive Producer is required. Successful candidates must have an advanced understanding of legal/ethical issues impacting journalism, excellent verbal/written communication skills, knowledge of locale, governing bodies, demographics and public figures.

Strong self-motivation is needed in this role and the ability to perform high-quality work in high pressure situations. INEWS experience is required as well as the ability to work a flexible schedule.

Please apply at www.meredith.com/careers

EOE

Executive Producer, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS-TV, Central Ohio’s News Leader, seeks a dynamic Executive Producer with a proven track record. The successful candidate will be responsible for the production, execution and overall presentation of our daily newscasts, while providing leadership in the newsroom, managing producers and associate producers, ensuring writing meets station standards, coordinating with other departments for daily multiplatform news production and assisting in development of news department strategy.

10TV strives to succeed and is looking for someone with passion and enthusiasm to join our strong team! This position requires at least six years’ experience in local television news as a Producer and Executive Producer (with at least two years as EP or similar). The candidate must have excellent news judgment and communication skills, proficient comprehension of digital and social platforms and above average writing and storytelling skills. The ideal candidate should have the ability to manage and influence a large group and to work effectively in often stressful situations required. Experience in investigative journalism and digital platforms are a plus.

Please be sure to include your news philosophy and link to a recent newscast in your cover letter or resume. Please apply at www.dispatchbroadcast.com/careers.

WBNS 10TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Digital Executive Producer, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS 10TV is looking for a creative, experienced and driven Digital Executive Producer to lead our digital media team and work with the broadcast team to ensure Central Ohio’s News Leader’s success on all platforms.

This position will oversee and manage the execution of digital and social journalism in alignment with the Director of News & Digital Content.

WBNS is a family owned company that has a strong culture and strives for excellence. We are looking for a gifted candidate that can set a vision for the digital and social platforms and keep it evolving as the industry does. The right candidate will have the combination of being able to see things at the macro level but is also able to roll up their sleeves and be micro.

You will approve, write, edit and publish stories for 10TV.com and our mobile and social networks. The right candidate will be vocal in the editorial meetings beyond just the numbers (though they are important!) to incorporate a creative mission daily. The successful Digital EP will respond quickly and accurately to breaking news. This role will provide guidance to newscast producers and assist in writing on-air teases and text that promote coverage in digital and social media. The ideal candidate will innovate and is able to understand and analyze monthly statistical reports and other documentation regarding digital and social use. Leadership of the digital team will include maintaining work and vacation schedules.

Preferences: 5 years working in a converged (broadcast/digital) newsroom with 2 years management experience.

Please apply at www.dispatchbroadcast.com/careers.

WBNS 10TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Executive Producer, WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL:

Are you a producer with a proven track record creating dynamic shows? Are you ready to make that move into management and help build something special? We’re seeking a smart, creative, and enthusiastic Executive Producer with strong leadership skills and a vision for success to join our team at WTXL ABC 27 in Tallahassee, Florida.

Applicant must have a degree in broadcast journalism or related field. Must have at least 4 years producing experience in a professional newsroom; be an excellent writer with good oral communication skills; have solid news judgment; be organized, trustworthy, calm under pressure and have experience with breaking news and live shots. Ability to multi-task is essential.

Must be familiar with ENPS and have the ability to help drive our digital platform and focus on multi-media content. Must have the ability to coordinate and create graphics and help maintain station website. Some non-linear editing experience preferred. Must be a team player with a great attitude and be available to work various schedules. A valid state driver’s license is required.

The candidate must have a visceral distaste for office politics and gossip.

Email your resume to careers@wtxl.tv. Include in the subject line the specific position for which you are applying.

NO PHONE CALLS. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16)
KNTV, San Francisco/San Jose, CA (listed 9/4/16)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (listed 8/14/16)
KMBC-TV, Kansas City, MO (relisted 8/7/16)
WJXT-TV, Jacksonville, FL (relisted 8/21/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
WFIE-TV, Evansville, IN (listed 7/24/16)
KEZI-TV, Eugene, OR (relisted 8/21/16)
KTXS-TV, Abilene, TX (listed 8/21/16)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16)
WXYZ-TV, Detroit, MI (Special Projects/Investigative, listed 8/28/16)
KRIV-TV, Houston, TX (Senior EP, new listing this week, see ad above!)
KDVR/KWGN-TV Denver, CO (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (Dayside EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WOIO/WUAB-TV, Cleveland, OH (new listing this week)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (Dayside EP, listed 8/28/16)
WBTV, Charlotte, NC (listed 8/7/16)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC (AM EP, listed 8/14/16)
KPTV, Portland, OR (relisted 9/11/16)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (two jobs, listing modified this week, see ads above!)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (PM EP, relisted this week, see ad above!)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
KLAS-TV, Las Vegas, NV (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
WFOX/WJAX-TV, Jacksonville, FL (AM EP, listed 8/21/16)
KOAT-TV, Albuquerque, NM (PM EP, relisted 9/4/16)
KOB-TV, Albuquerque, NM (listed 7/24/16)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 8/14/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listing revised 8/21/16)
WVLT-TV, Knoxville, TN (AM EP, listing revised 8/28/16)
WOWK-TV, Charleston/Huntington, WV (relisted 9/11/16)
WAAY-TV, Huntsville, AL (PM EP, relisted 8/21/16)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 7/17/16)
KIVI-TV, Boise, ID (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listing revised 9/11/16, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

NBC Boston (relisted this week)

Obituary:

Payne

CLYDE PAYNE, who was GM and once part owner of WBKO-TV in Bowling Green, KY, died yesterday at the age of 80. He had a 42 year career in our business, 27 as GM of WBKO. More details in this obituary. One of his former news directors at WBKO, STEVE CRABTREE, posted this heartfelt tribute to his former boss on his Facebook page.

Names in the News:

PAM BECHTOLD has been promoted to Executive Producer from Special Projects Producer for the New England Cable News Network, aka NBC Boston. The station is still looking for a Managing Editor as noted above.

Ford

CHRIS FORD returns to Tampa as EP for WFLA-TV, the NBC affiliate currently owned by Media General but about to be acquired by Nexstar. Chris most recently was the ND for WHEC-TV in Rochester, NY. He was the Assistant ND for WTSP-TV in Tampa before moving to New York. He’s had a variety of other jobs in his career as detailed on his Linkedin page.

A change at the top of the Online News Association. IRVING WASHINGTON will replace JANE McDONELL on January 1. He’s been the the Deputy Director. More here.

General Manager Moves:

  Wiser

ELLIOTT WISER left his job as GM for WTSP-TV in Tampa this week, saying he was ready for the second act of his life. He’d been GM for this Tegna station for three years and previously ran Bay News 9, the area’s all news cable channel. He also was ND for Northwest Cable News in Seattle and was an ND/anchor in Richmond and a producer in Atlanta.

Our Full List of Open ND Jobs:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, September 18, 2016:

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

KTVT-TV 5233 Bridge Street, Fort Worth TX 76103
WPXI-TV 4145 Evergreen Road Pittsburgh PA 15214
WCPO-TV 1720 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202
WGRZ-TV 259 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, NY 14202
WIVB-TV, 2077 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY 14207
WTEN-TV 41 Northern Blvd, Albany, NY 12204
WKEF/WRGT-TV 2245 Corporate Pl, Miamisburg, OH 45342
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WCSH/WLBZ-TV One Congress Square Portland, ME 04101
WAND-TV 904 South Side Drive Decatur, IL 62521
KRDO-TV 399 S. 8th St. Colorado Springs, CO 80905
KIMA/KEPR-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima,WA 98901
KX Network 1811 N 15th Street Bismarck, ND 58501
KARD/KTVE-TV 200 Pavilion Road W. Monroe, LA 71292
KMID/KPEJ-TV 3200 LaForce Boulevard Midland, TX 79711
KEYC-TV 1570 Lookout Dr, North Mankato, MN 56003
KYOU-TV 820 W Second St. Ottumwa IA 52501

* Spanish language station

September 11, 2016

Friday, September 16, 2016 UPDATE:

A veteran of the Los Angeles market will be the next news director for Fox o-and-o KTTV.

Knutsen

KRIS KNUTSEN was named to that job today. For the past 5+ years, she’s been the Assistant News Director for Tribune’s KTLA-TV in Los Angeles. And for 30+ years before that, she worked for KNBC-TV as an Assignment Manager and Managing Editor of the Local News Service.

More on her Linkedin page here.

At KTTV, Kris replaces BILL MONDORA who left the station in June after just more than two years as ND there.

We’ll have more in our full newsletter this weekend.

By the way, I leave tomorrow morning for New Orleans and the EIJ/RTDNA convention. I’ll hope to see some of you there.

regards,

Rick Gevers

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

Greetings:

Only ONE newly opened news director’s job to tell you about this week, and, to the best of my knowledge, NO new openings, leaving our count of open ND jobs at 17.

ONE of those 17 openings is featured in one of our TEN help wanted ads.

We have an obituary for a legendary newsman from Seattle, In Names in the News, a story about a former ND who’s about to become President and CEO of one of the country’s biggest broadcasting companies, how a Texas ND described his decision making process on a controversial story, details on an endowment on behalf of a longtime journalism professor, and some news managers on the move. All that’s below.

By the way, the annual EIJ/RTDNA conference is in New Orleans in a week or so, and I hope to see some of you there.

Newly News Director Openings:

  Ruiter

KEYC-TV, Mankato, MN…DAN RUITER left this CBS/FOX operation Friday after more than 12 years as ND. He tells me it was a difficult decision but he’s taken a job as an Information Officer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Dan says he’s a native Minnesotan who loves the outdoors. He’s also been an anchor in Austin, MN, and reported in Eau Claire, WI. The station is owned by United Communications Company.

Newly Named News Directors:

None that I know of. If I’ve missed something, please let me know via an email to: rick@rickgevers.com

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Executive Producer, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS-TV, Central Ohio’s News Leader, seeks a dynamic Executive Producer with a proven track record. The successful candidate will be responsible for the production, execution and overall presentation of our daily newscasts, while providing leadership in the newsroom, managing producers and associate producers, ensuring writing meets station standards, coordinating with other departments for daily multiplatform news production and assisting in development of news department strategy.

10TV strives to succeed and is looking for someone with passion and enthusiasm to join our strong team! This position requires at least six years’ experience in local television news as a Producer and Executive Producer (with at least two years as EP or similar). The candidate must have excellent news judgment and communication skills, proficient comprehension of digital and social platforms and above average writing and storytelling skills. The ideal candidate should have the ability to manage and influence a large group and to work effectively in often stressful situations required. Experience in investigative journalism and digital platforms are a plus.

Please be sure to include your news philosophy and link to a recent newscast in your cover letter or resume. Please apply at www.dispatchbroadcast.com/careers.

WBNS 10TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Digital Executive Producer, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS 10TV is looking for a creative, experienced and driven Digital Executive Producer to lead our digital media team and work with the broadcast team to ensure Central Ohio’s News Leader’s success on all platforms.

This position will oversee and manage the execution of digital and social journalism in alignment with the Director of News & Digital Content.

WBNS is a family owned company that has a strong culture and strives for excellence. We are looking for a gifted candidate that can set a vision for the digital and social platforms and keep it evolving as the industry does. The right candidate will have the combination of being able to see things at the macro level but is also able to roll up their sleeves and be micro.

You will approve, write, edit and publish stories for 10TV.com and our mobile and social networks. The right candidate will be vocal in the editorial meetings beyond just the numbers (though they are important!) to incorporate a creative mission daily. The successful Digital EP will respond quickly and accurately to breaking news. This role will provide guidance to newscast producers and assist in writing on-air teases and text that promote coverage in digital and social media. The ideal candidate will innovate and is able to understand and analyze monthly statistical reports and other documentation regarding digital and social use. Leadership of the digital team will include maintaining work and vacation schedules.

Preferences: 5 years working in a converged (broadcast/digital) newsroom with 2 years management experience.

Please apply at www.dispatchbroadcast.com/careers.

WBNS 10TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Executive Producer, WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL:

Are you a producer with a proven track record creating dynamic shows? Are you ready to make that move into management and help build something special? We’re seeking a smart, creative, and enthusiastic Executive Producer with strong leadership skills and a vision for success to join our team at WTXL ABC 27 in Tallahassee, Florida.

Applicant must have a degree in broadcast journalism or related field. Must have at least 4 years producing experience in a professional newsroom; be an excellent writer with good oral communication skills; have solid news judgment; be organized, trustworthy, calm under pressure and have experience with breaking news and live shots. Ability to multi-task is essential.

Must be familiar with ENPS and have the ability to help drive our digital platform and focus on multi-media content. Must have the ability to coordinate and create graphics and help maintain station website. Some non-linear editing experience preferred. Must be a team player with a great attitude and be available to work various schedules. A valid state driver’s license is required.

The candidate must have a visceral distaste for office politics and gossip.

Email your resume to careers@wtxl.tv. Include in the subject line the specific position for which you are applying.

NO PHONE CALLS. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Director of Local Content Development, Nexstar Broadcasting Group:

Please access this link and provide us your information and tell us why you feel you are right fit for this opportunity.  The position will be based at the company’s headquarters in Irving, Texas.

News Director, KX Network, Western North Dakota:

Assistant News Director, KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX:

Assistant News Director, KNTV, San Francisco/San Jose, CA:

Executive News Producer, KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX:

Executive Producer, WTVR-TV, Richmond, VA:

• Manage multiple newscasts to meet content objectives and newscast strategies to live up to the brand.
• Set coverage expectations, hold show review sessions, and drive breaking news coverage
• Collaborate with team to produce a first in class product.
• Innovate, think differently and be creative.
• Manage and develop producers, reporters and anchors through daily copyediting and discussions.
• Ability to produce newscasts on occasion and work non-traditional hours, weekend and holidays
• Assist in hiring, train, and managing of producers and reporters
• Lead long-term planning for content and special coverage
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience required
• 5 years previous news producing experience
• Supervisory experience highly preferred

Broadcast journalism (lecturer, non-tenure track), Indiana University, Bloomington, IN::

Practitioners of broadcast journalism with teaching experience – or those with aptitude for teaching – are invited to apply. Experience with a variety of platforms (from traditional TV station environments to streaming or social media formats) is desirable for this position.

Candidates will be expected to play a leadership role in growing our audiovisual curriculum and have the ability to teach courses at the beginning and advanced levels. Minimum education is a relevant Master’s Degree in the field of instruction. Interested candidates should review the job description and submit application materials on-line by clicking here.

Successful candidates for all positions will be able to affiliate with one or more of the units of the Media School: Cinema and Media Studies, Communication Science, Journalism and Media Arts and Production.

Interested candidates should review the job description and submit application materials on-line at the designated web address above. To ensure full consideration, applications should be submitted by October 14, 2016; however, applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16, see ad above!)
KNTV, San Francisco/San Jose, CA (listed 9/4/16, see ad above!)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (listed 8/14/16)
KMBC-TV, Kansas City, MO (relisted 8/7/16)
WJXT-TV, Jacksonville, FL (relisted 8/21/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
WFIE-TV, Evansville, IN (listed 7/24/16)
KEZI-TV, Eugene, OR (relisted 8/21/16)
KTXS-TV, Abilene, TX (listed 8/21/16)

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

KXAS-TV, Ft. Worth/Dallas, TX (relisted 9/4/16, see ad above!)
NBC Boston (listed 7/31/16)
WXYZ-TV, Detroit, MI (Special Projects/Investigative, listed 8/28/16)
KDVR/KWGN-TV Denver, CO (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (Dayside EP, relisted 8/14/16)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (Dayside EP, listed 8/28/16)
WBTV, Charlotte, NC (listed 8/7/16)
WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC (AM EP, listed 8/14/16)
KPTV, Portland, OR (relisted this week)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (two openings, listing modified this week, see ads above!)
KCTV, Kansas City, MO (PM EP, relisted this week)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
KLAS-TV, Las Vegas, NV (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)
WFOX/WJAX-TV, Jacksonville, FL (AM EP, listed 8/21/16)
KOAT-TV, Albuquerque, NM (PM EP, relisted 9/4/16)
KOB-TV, Albuquerque, NM (listed 7/24/16)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 8/14/16)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (listed 9/4/16)
WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listing revised 8/21/16)
WVLT-TV, Knoxville, TN (AM EP, listing revised 8/28/16)
WOWK-TV, Charleston/Huntington, WV (relisted this week)
WAAY-TV, Huntsville, AL (PM EP, relisted 8/21/16)
WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 7/17/16)
KIVI-TV, Boise, ID (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)
WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listing revised this week, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

NBC Boston (listed 7/31/16)

Obituary:

Sturholm

PHIL STURHOLM, a longtime photojournalist and executive producer at Seattle’s KING-TV died Tuesday, August 23 at the age of 80, just three days before he was to host a station reunion. He was considered a legend, according to this article. And this article. And this one, too.

Names in the News:

Lougee

One time news director DAVE LOUGEE (Denver and Washington) will become President and CEO of Tegna following the retirement of GRACIA MARTORE. That will happen after the spinoff announced this week of cars.com into a separate company. This article explains everything (well, at least everything about that move!)

On this anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, you may have read or seen stories about a controversial commercial produced by a Texas mattress store that some said mocked the attacks. KENS-TV (San Antonio) News Director JACK ACOSTA took to the web to explain his decisions on how the station covered the story.

One time KSTP-TV (Minneapolis) Assistant News Director CRAIG CHEATHAM is joining WCPO-TV in Cincinnati as EP and investigative reporter of its I-Team. Craig worked as an investigative reporter in St. Louis before moving into management in Minneapolis.

SYLVIA VILLARREAL is joining KXXV-TV in Waco, TX, as the station’s new executive producer. She’s currently an assignment editor at KTVT-TV in Dallas and has also worked for CBS News and in Bryan, TX. More here.

Two time RTDNA chair BOB PRIDDY is spearheading a national effort to collect and maintain old radio recordings.

  Gelatt

Longtime University of Missouri Journalism Professor (and one time KOMU-TV news director) ROD GELATT was honored this weekend by some former students. They created an endowment in his name to support the University’s NPR affiliate, KBIA-TV, where Rod also served as news director. More on Rod’s career and the endowment in this story. Friends can congratulate Rod via email at: rgelatt@aol.com

General Manager Moves:

STEVE SOUTH returns to Wichita as General Manager for Media General-soon-to-be-Nextar-owned KSNW-TV. He’s currently the GSM for Media General’s stations in Lansing, MI, but earlier in his career he was station manager for KAKE-TV in Wichita.

Our Full List of Open ND Jobs:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, September 11, 2016:

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

KTTV/KCOP-TV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
KTVT-TV 5233 Bridge Street, Fort Worth TX 76103
WPXI-TV 4145 Evergreen Road Pittsburgh PA 15214
WCPO-TV 1720 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202
WGRZ-TV 259 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, NY 14202
WIVB-TV, 2077 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY 14207
WKEF/WRGT-TV 2245 Corporate Pl, Miamisburg, OH 45342
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WCSH/WLBZ-TV One Congress Square Portland, ME 04101
WAND-TV 904 South Side Drive Decatur, IL 62521
KRDO-TV 399 S. 8th St. Colorado Springs, CO 80905
KIMA/KEPR-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima,WA 98901
KX Network 1811 N 15th Street Bismarck, ND 58501 (see ad above)
KARD/KTVE-TV 200 Pavilion Road W. Monroe, LA 71292
KMID/KPEJ-TV 3200 LaForce Boulevard Midland, TX 79711
KEYC-TV 1570 Lookout Dr, North Mankato, MN 56003
KYOU-TV 820 W Second St. Ottumwa IA 52501

* Spanish language station

September 4, 2016

Greetings:

If you had no plans for tomorrow’s Labor Day holiday, you can spend part of the day reading a lengthy edition of our weekly newsletter.

While there is only ONE new ND to tell you about, and just ONE new opening, (leaving our list at 16 openings) we have lots of other items for your consideration.

For instance, help wanted ads for people with almost every level of experience:

A large group owner seeks an additional regional news executive.
THREE management jobs at network o-and-o’s in the top six markets.
An interesting news director job in North Dakota.
THREE EP jobs in top 20, top 60 and top 90 markets.
And even an ad for a faculty position at Indiana University.

We have more information on TWO obituaries of former NDs who shared a similar background.

Also, in Names in the News, the Justice Department has okayed a big station deal, a look at how one company is looking for new ways to do news in the digital age, news of SEVEN GM moves, details about a legacy for a late San Antonio ND, and a retirement for a longtime AP executive, and more.

Enjoy the holiday…or what will be left of it when you’re done reading this missive!

New News Director Opening:

KX Network, Western North Dakota…JIM OLSON has been promoted to Station Manager for this Nexstar owned operation serving Western North Dakota. You can learn more about this opportunity in the paid help wanted ad below.

Newly Named News Directors:

KRIV-TV, Houston, TX…SUSAN SCHILLER joins FOX as VP/News for this owned and operated stations. Susan spent 15 years as ND for CBS’s KYW-TV in Philadelphia, and 40 years with the network, with responsibilities at other local stations and at the network news division. More from Houston media blogger MIKE McGUFF. Susan replaces BOB MORFORD who left earlier this year to become ND for WAFF-TV in Huntsville, AL, to be closer to his wife who lives in Nashville.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:

Director of Local Content Development, Nexstar Broadcasting Group:

Please access this link and provide us your information and tell us why you feel you are right fit for this opportunity.  The position will be based at the company’s headquarters in Irving, Texas.

News Director, KX Network, Western North Dakota:

Assistant News Director, KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX:

Assistant News Director, KNTV, San Francisco/San Jose, CA:

Executive News Producer, KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX:

Executive Producer, WTVR-TV, Richmond, VA:

• Manage multiple newscasts to meet content objectives and newscast strategies to live up to the brand.
• Set coverage expectations, hold show review sessions, and drive breaking news coverage
• Collaborate with team to produce a first in class product.
• Innovate, think differently and be creative.
• Manage and develop producers, reporters and anchors through daily copyediting and discussions.
• Ability to produce newscasts on occasion and work non-traditional hours, weekend and holidays
• Assist in hiring, train, and managing of producers and reporters
• Lead long-term planning for content and special coverage
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent experience required
• 5 years previous news producing experience
• Supervisory experience highly preferred

Executive Producer, KXXV-TV, Waco, TX:

Broadcast journalism (lecturer, non-tenure track), Indiana University, Bloomington, IN::

Practitioners of broadcast journalism with teaching experience – or those with aptitude for teaching – are invited to apply. Experience with a variety of platforms (from traditional TV station environments to streaming or social media formats) is desirable for this position.

Candidates will be expected to play a leadership role in growing our audiovisual curriculum and have the ability to teach courses at the beginning and advanced levels. Minimum education is a relevant Master’s Degree in the field of instruction. Interested candidates should review the job description and submit application materials on-line by clicking here.

Successful candidates for all positions will be able to affiliate with one or more of the units of the Media School: Cinema and Media Studies, Communication Science, Journalism and Media Arts and Production.

Interested candidates should review the job description and submit application materials on-line at the designated web address above. To ensure full consideration, applications should be submitted by October 14, 2016; however, applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status.

Morning Executive Producer, KDVR/KWGN-TV, Denver, CO:

If you’re the first and not the second, we’d love to talk to you!

KDVR Fox 31 in Denver is looking for a Rock Star Executive Producer to oversee our weekday morning shows. We want a strong leader who is aggressive, competitive and creative! We don’t want a stacker! We want someone who will dig for overnight news and keep the shows updated and fresh. Must be strong with breaking news, good at copy editing, able to coach producers and really lead the morning crew! We want to mix up the morning news landscape and that means hiring a creative and aggressive Executive Producer…who likes the morning shift!

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 product on air and on our digital platforms. You’ve got to own social media! And have the skills to contribute content to our web site. Must have solid news judgment, the ability 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 to ensure our content meets standards for editorial and technical integrity. Excellent communication skills are a must, as is prior management and major market producing experience.

Interested and qualified candidates are urged to apply on-line at www.tribunemediacareers.com JOB-ID 2016-44695.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:

WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL (AM EP, listed 7/4/11)

WXYZ-TV, Detroit, MI (Special Projects/Investigative, listed 8/28/16)

KDVR/KWGN-TV Denver, CO (AM EP, listed 8/28/16, see ad above!)

WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (Dayside EP, relisted 8/14/16)

KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (Dayside EP, listed 8/28/16)

WBTV, Charlotte, NC (listed 8/7/16)

WCNC-TV, Charlotte, NC (AM EP, listed 8/14/16)

KPTV, Portland, OR (listed 7/10/16)

WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)

WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Dayside & Digital EP, listing modified 8/28/16)

KCTV, Kansas City, MO (PM EP, listed 7/4/11)

WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)

WPTV, West Palm Beach, FL (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)

KLAS-TV, Las Vegas, NV (AM EP, listed 8/28/16)

WFOX/WJAX-TV, Jacksonville, FL (AM EP, listed 8/21/16)

KOAT-TV, Albuquerque, NM (PM EP, relisted this week)

KOB-TV, Albuquerque, NM (listed 7/24/16)

WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 8/14/16)

WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (new listing this week)

WINK-TV, Ft. Myers, FL (Senior EP, listing revised 8/21/16)

WVLT-TV, Knoxville, TN (AM EP, listing revised 8/28/16)

WOWK-TV, Charleston/Huntington, WV (relisted 7/10/16)

WAAY-TV, Huntsville, AL (PM EP, relisted 8/21/16)

WCTI-TV, New Bern, NC (relisted 7/17/16)

KIVI-TV, Boise, ID (AM EP, relisted 8/14/16)

WTXL-TV, Tallahassee, FL (listed 8/21/16)

MANAGING EDITOR:

NBC Boston (listed 7/31/16)

Obituaries:

Two former news directors died this week.

Both were named Bob.

Both ran stations in Washington, DC.

Both died of cancer.

And both were beloved by their employees.

Long

BOB LONG died in a Washington hospital Monday of metastatic prostate cancer at the age of 71. He was a former ND for WRC-TV in Washington, KNBC-TV in Los Angeles, worked for several other Los Angeles stations, and produced documentaries during a long and varied careers. Memorial services are being planned in both Los Angeles and Washington. More on his life and career in this obituary.

Reichblum

BOB REICHBLUM died Tuesday in Chicago from brain cancer. He was 58. He’d been an ND for WJLA-TV in Washington and WPLG-TV in Miami, but also served as the EP of Good Morning America, and was an executive at CNBC, WebFN, and the Reelz Channel. He also worked in newsrooms in Detroit, Philadelphia, and his native Pittsburgh. More in this interesting story from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. If you’ll permit me a personal note, I knew Bob for more than 30 years. We once shared season hockey tickets for the Detroit Red Wings. And since we reconnected a few years ago, I got an email from him every year on my birthday. I’m sure I’m not the only one who will miss those notes.

Names in the News:

The Department of Justice has okayed Nexstar’s acquisition of Media General, contingent on the sale of seven TV stations.

The Nieman Lab has an interesting look at how one large broadcast company is looking for new ways to practice journalism in this digital age.

Turell

Best wishes for a long and happy retirement to AP’s JOHN TURELL who’s retiring this week after more than 20 years as a Regional TV Executive. He spent the early part of his career in a number of newsrooms, as you’ll learn on his Linkedin page. Friends can email John at: jturell@mail.com

If you knew and respected longtime KSAT-TV (San Antonio) News Director JIM BOYLE, as so many did, you’ll enjoy this article about the efforts his widow and daughters have taken since his death from brain cancer in 2014.

Longtime Kentucky newsman JERRY SANDER is home and on the mend after a fall and a battle with pneumonia. He’ll have home health care for a while, but can have company for a short visit. And he’d enjoy your email sent to: jerronsan@gmail.com

Corrections and clarifications from last week’s newsletter:

WWTV/WWUP in Michigan (Cadillac/Traverse City) is a CBS affiliate, not NBC, as I told you in the item about SEAN MAHON‘s appointment as ND there.

I screwed up the note about CHRIS PETTIGREW‘s new job: He’s headed to KMGH-TV in Denver (Scripps/ABC), not WXYZ-TV in Detroit (also Scripps/ABC).

And I misspelled MARK PARRICK’s name in reporting his move to WDSU-TV as Assistant News Director.

Not one of my better weeks. Apologies to all.

General Manager Moves:

We may not have many news director moves this week, but we make up for that with an abundance of GM news.

Leider

BOB LEIDER is returning to Sunbeam Televison, (owner of WHDH-TV in Boston and WSVN-TV in Miami) as executive VP and General Manager. He retired from that job in 2014, but is returning now that his replacement, CHRIS WAYLAND, is leaving to become VP of Group Operations for Tribune Broadcasting.

JAY O’CONNOR, who’s run Cox Media’s KIRO-TV in Seattle since June, 2012, says he will leave that job at the end of the year.

As one new GM heads to Indianapolis, another is leaving.

Aitken

JAMES (JAMIE) AITKEN has been named GM of Tribune’s WTTV/WXIN-TV the CBS/FOX duopoly in Indianapolis. He’s currently running Tribune’s KDAF-TV in Dallas, once ran Belo’s Texas Cable News in Dallas, was a GM in Spokane and a station manager in Phoenix. It’s a return to Indianapolis for Jamie, who began his career as a Pulliam Fellow at the now-defunct Indianapolis News.

Friday was LES VANN‘s last day as GM of WISH-TV (CW) in Indianapolis. He’s headed to WFTX-TV in Ft. Myers, the Scripps-owned FOX affiliate.

SCOTT THOMAS has been promoted to GM for Raycom media’s KFVS-TV in Cape Girardeau, MO. He’s been the sales manager for that CBS affiliate.

KTEN-TV in Denison, TX, has a new GM. It’s DAVID TILLERY, a former GM for KETK-TV in Tyler, TX.

Finally…VICTOR HOGSTROM will be the new GM for public station KPTS-TV in Wichita, replacing one time news director MICHELE GORS. More here.

Our Full List of Open ND Jobs:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, September 4, 2016:

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

KTTV/KCOP-TV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
KTVT-TV 5233 Bridge Street, Fort Worth TX 76103
WPXI-TV 4145 Evergreen Road Pittsburgh PA 15214
WCPO-TV 1720 Gilbert Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202
WGRZ-TV 259 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, NY 14202
WIVB-TV, 2077 Elmwood Ave. Buffalo, NY 14207
WKEF/WRGT-TV 2245 Corporate Pl, Miamisburg, OH 45342
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WCSH/WLBZ-TV One Congress Square Portland, ME 04101
WAND-TV 904 South Side Drive Decatur, IL 62521
KRDO-TV 399 S. 8th St. Colorado Springs, CO 80905
KIMA/KEPR-TV 2801 Terrace Heights Dr. Yakima,WA 98901
KX Network 1811 N 15th Street Bismarck, ND 58501 (see ad above!)
KARD/KTVE-TV 200 Pavilion Road W. Monroe, LA 71292
KMID/KPEJ-TV 3200 LaForce Boulevard Midland, TX 79711
KYOU-TV 820 W Second St. Ottumwa IA 52501

* Spanish language station