Rick Gevers & Associates

March 22, 2014

Wednesday, March 26, 2014 UPDATE:

Mondora

A large market news director opening that’s been open for a long time has been filled with today’s announcement that BILL MONDORA has been named VP/News Director for KTTV, the FOX o-and-o in Los Angeles.

Many of you know Bill, who spent 24 years with CBS, the last 15 years as News Director for CBS NewsPath. He joined CBS as a regional Newspath producer in 1989, and before that had worked in Orlando and Oklahoma City.

At KTTV, he replaces KINGSLEY SMITH who left the station last October after two years as ND and 20 years with FOX.

More on this story later this week in our full report.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014 UPDATE:

Verrilli

Veteran CBS News Director JOHN VERRILLI left WBZ-TV in Boston today. John’s been ND for this o-and-o for the past five years and spent the five years before that as ND for another CBS o-an-o, KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh. He’d previously worked for WCBS-TV in New York as the Managing Editor, and had also worked for two other New York City stations.

We’ll have more on his departure in our full report later this week.

Sunday, March 23, 2014 UPDATE:

I’ve added a much more detailed obituary on the late PHIL NYE in the obituary section below.

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

Greetings:

It’s a rare week when we have no news director changes to share with you, but we do have lots of other stories I think you’ll find interesting.

Among then…obituaries for a former VP/News for the ABC o-and-o’s, and another for a CBS producer. Also this week, new responsibilities for a longtime Denver ND, a change at the top of the CBS Evening News, the demise of a newscast in Dallas, and the latest on the Seattle news helicopter crash.

If you’re looking for a new job, we have FIVE paid ads for opportunities in a wide range of market sizes and responsibilities. And two of our supporters are running ads telling you how to find them at next month’s NAB convention.

All that and more below.

New News Director Openings:

I’m not aware of any. If you are, let me know via email: rick@rickgevers.com

Newly Named News Directors:

We are still showing 25 vacant ND jobs. If you know of others that would make that number larger, let me know! rick@rickgevers.com

Paid Help Wanted Ads:   

Executive Producer/Broadcast Content, WCIV-TV, Charleston, SC:

Charleston, South Carolina has been voted the number 1 city in the U.S for a third year in a row. Who wouldn’t want to live and work in a city that boasts history, great food, sunshine and water?

The Executive Producer/Broadcast Content Manager supervises and coordinates the daily operations of the news department with guidance from the News Director including news coverage, weather coverage, sports, production of all newscasts and special projects.

– Oversees producers in the preparation and broadcast of all news content
– Must be able to direct and coordinate breaking news and weather coverage
– Must maintain editorial quality control
– Works with the New Media Manager to ensure the station’s website and social media accounts are updated
– Produces newscasts and special coverage as needed.
– Motivates and coaches news staff

Send cover letter, resume and completed WCIV application (click here) via email to: djackson@wciv.com or via mail to:

Deborah Jackson
HR Director
WCIV-TV
PO Box 22165
Charleston SC 29413

Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. NO PHONE CALLS. EEO

saas

News Director, WDAM-TV, Hattiesburg, MS:

WDAM News has a unique opportunity for an experienced news manager to expand their vision and skills in one of the best news markets in America as a News Director.

Located in the heart of the Mississippi Pine Belt, the area boasts a superb quality of life. With a low cost of living coupled with first-class schools, and a great mass communication school, University of Southern Mississippi, it’s a great place to settle. The station is part of the Raycom Media group of television stations, which means that they have state of the art equipment and a strong culture of continuous training and opportunity for growth within the company.

The successful candidate will have at least five years of experience as an executive producer or higher level news leadership. Applicants should have a well developed nose for news plus the following experience base:

• Strategic planning and execution
• Sweeps planning and TSR development
• Human resources
• First Amendment/Journalism law,
• Daily news gathering logistics and operations
• Television production
• Digital news gathering
• Social Media

Above all else, exceptional “people skills, the ability to resolve conflict, guide, direct and grow the skill set of all in the news department is a must.

If you want to be a leader in an award winning, aggressive newsroom that makes a difference in its community, then apply online and upload your resume and references by clicking here.

No phone calls please. EOE-M/F/D/

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

WBNS-TV, Central Ohio’s News Leader, seeks a dynamic Senior 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 newscast production and assisting in development of news department strategy.

This position requires at least eight years experience in local television news as Producer and Executive Producer, with at least three years as EP or similar; excellent news judgment and communication skills, and above average writing and storytelling skills. 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.

Qualified individuals may submit their resume online at dispatchbroadcast.com.

Dispatch Broadcast Group is an equal opportunity employer.
We are a drug free workplace.

Digital Managing Editor, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS-TV is searching for a Digital Managing Editor to drive digital coverage on all platforms, including 10tv.com and mobile.

The successful candidate will coordinate the process of publishing and updating digital content with compelling text and images, managing breaking news coverage and ensure complementary branding for on-air product.

This is a fast paced, hands on role responsible for taking an active role in writing, editing, approving and publishing content daily while also providing direction and leadership to news and digital staff that is also responsible for creating and implementing strategic plans, collaborating with other Dispatch properties on special and non-news sections and analyzing digital reports and statistics.

This position requires at least three years experience working in the newsroom of a TV station or news publication, working knowledge of html, javascript, dynamic html, cgi and photo editing and publishing, preferably with Adobe Photoshop. Knowledge of AP Internet style required. Bachelors degree in journalism or broadcast journalism and previous supervisory experience strongly preferred.

Qualified individuals may submit a resume online at dispatchbroadcast.com.

Dispatch Broadcast Group is an equal opportunity employer.
We are a drug free workplace.

Assignment Manager, WSPA-TV, Spartanburg, SC:

WSPA-TV, covering the beautiful Carolinas, is seeking a strong leader to join our news team.

Candidates must have a background in advocacy journalism and show proven success managing multiple employees. The Assignment Manager oversees the assignment desk, editors and photographers and should be practiced in multi-tasking. The right candidate should have a proven track record in organizing, planning, and executing long and short term news coverage.

Candidates should have 5 years experience in a medium to large market with proven leadership skills.

Email your resume to hr@wspa.com or via mail to:

Human Resources
WSPA-TV
250 International Drive
Spartanburg SC 29303

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WFLD/WPWR-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 1/26/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted 2/1/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (Web EP, listed 2/22/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa. FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO (listing revised 2/1/14)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Senior EP, listed 3/17/14, see ad above!)
WDJT-TV, Milwaukee, WI (PM EP, relisted 2/1/14)
WXIX-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 Openings, listed 2/14/14)
WJAR-TV, Providence, RI (listed 1/26/14)
KGPE/KSEE-TV, Fresno, CA (AM EP, listed 2/8/14)
KTUL-TV, Tulsa, OK (relisted 2/22/14)
KGUN-TV, Tucson, AZ (Morning EP, relisted this week)
WSJV-TV, South Bend/Elkhart, IN (relisted 2/22/14)
WJCL/WGTS-TV, Savannah, GA (Digital EP, listed 3/7/14)
WKBN-TV, Youngstown, OH (Dayside EP, listing revised 3/7/14)
WCIV-TV, Charleston, SC (new listing this week, see ad above!)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 1/26/14)
WSPA-TV, Spartanburg, SC (listed 3/17/14, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WVIT-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 1/18/14)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Digital ME, listed 3/17/14, see ad above!)

Obituaries:

Nye

Updated 3/23/13:  PHIL NYE, who had a long career in our business, much of it at ABC or its owned stations, died this week at the age of 87.  He served as VP/News for the ABC owned stations, was a VP/Station Manager for KGO-TV in San Francisco, and was twice the ND for WXYZ-TV in Detroit, when it was an ABC o-and-o. Phil also worked in radio and newspapers, as well as TV in West Virginia. Here’s a brief tribute from WXYZ. Services are Monday in Detroit. Read more about his life and career here.

Longtime CBS News producer CLEM TAYLOR died earlier this week. He was 60 and suffered from pancreatic cancer. Clem spent 20 years at CBS, the last four at 60 Minutes, which offers this tribute.

Situations Wanted:

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

Names in the News:

Our sympathy to Seattle’s KOMO-TV News Director HOLLY GAUNTT and her staff on the loss of two colleagues in this week’s crash of the station’s chopper.  Pilot GARY PFITZNER and photojournalist BILL STROTHMAN died.  Both worked for the craft’s owner, Helicopters, Inc, though Strothman had earlier worked for KOMO for many years.  His son is currently a photojournalist there.  Saturday’s Seattle Times updates the NTSB investigation here.

Congratulations to longtime KUSA-TV (Denver/NBC) News Director PATTI DENNIS, who’s assuming additional responsibilities as Director of Recruiting for parent company Gannett. She’ll continue as VP/News for KUSA, but will reduce her day to day involvement in the newsroom, according to Gannett’s SVP/News, ROB MENNIE, quoted in this article.

The Executive Producer of the CBS Evening News, PAT SHEVLIN, is stepping down. She’ll stay with CBS in another role. Pat’s been with the network since 1975.

KTXD-TV in Dallas has cancelled its flagship evening newscast. Many longtime Dallas/Ft. Worth anchors were featured on the program.

You’ve probably already heard that Media General is buying LIN Media, in a deal announced Friday. The Providence Journal, in LIN’s headquarters city and one of five in which the companies own at least one station each, looks at the deal here.

General Manager News:

AL JEROME, the longtime GM of public station KCET-TV in Los Angeles, is retiring, according to this article from the Los Angeles Times.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Saturday, March 22, 2014.

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

KWHY-TV 1201 West 5th St., # T-900 Los Angeles CA 90017 *
KTTV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St. Miami FL 33175 *
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
WEWS-TV 3001 Euclid Ave. Cleveland OH 44115
KMOV-TV One Memorial Dr. St. Louis MO 63101
KOIN-TV 222 SW Columbia St. Portland OR 97201
WCNC-TV 1001 Wood Ridge Center Dr. Charlotte NC 28217
WTMJ-TV 720 E. Capitol Dr. Milwaukee WI 53212
KVDA-TV 6234 San Pedro San Antonio TX 78216 *
WHP-TV 3300 North 6th Street Harrisburg PA 17110
WIAT-TV 2075 Golden Crest Drive Birmingham AL 35209
WHAS-TV 520 W. Chestnut St. Louisville KY 40203
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WOI-TV 3903 Westown Parkway West Des Moines IA 50266
WAAY-TV 1000 Monte Sano Boulevard Huntsville AL 35801
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway Brownsville TX 78521
KCEN-TV 314 South Intestate 35 Eddy TX 76524
WCBD-TV 210 W. Coleman Blvd. Charleston SC 29464
WCYB/WEMT-TV 101 Lee St. Bristol TN 24201
WNCT-TV 3001 Euclid Ave. Greenville NC 27834
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave. Columbus GA 31901
WJHG-TV, 8195 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach FL 32407
WDAM-TV 2362 U.S. Highway 11 Moselle MS 39459 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

March 17, 2014

Greetings:

We have THREE new ND openings in this week’s report (just one week I expressed surprise at no new ND openings right after a rating period.)

And we have just ONE new ND, bringing our count of open ND jobs to 25.

One of those ND openings is featured in a paid ad below, one of FIVE ads in this week’s edition. Be sure to check those out below.

In Names in the News, we have a number of management moves as well as a link to an article that profiles CBS This Morning and its use of music.

All that and more below.

New News Director Openings:

Manuel

WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH…we first reported the departure of JILL MANUEL in a Friday afternoon UPDATE.  Jill left the station Friday after more than 5 1/2 years as news director. She previously had been the news director for CLTV, the Tribune owned Chicago cable news operation.  Jill had also worked at WBBM-TV in Chicago as an executive producer, and for both Fox News and the Fox News Channel.  WEWS is an ABC affiliate owned by Scripps.

Swan

WDAM-TV, Hattiesburg, MS…after 30 years as news director and anchor, RANDY SWAN is stepping down as news director but will stay busy. He’ll continue to anchor and will launch an investigative unit for the Raycom Media owned NBC affiliate (which carries ABC programming on a digital channel). He’s been ND and anchor here since 1982 (with the exception of a five year stint at a station in Greenville, MS.) You can learn more about this opening in the paid ad below.

Johansen

WNCT-TV, Greenville/New Bern, NC…INGRID JOHANSEN has left this Media General owned CBS affiliate after 16 months as news director. Ingrid tells me she has plans for the future, but isn’t ready to reveal them quite yet. Earlier, she worked for six years as the ND at another station in the market, as well as an ND in Providence and Lexington. She’s worked in Raleigh, Greensboro, Columbia, SC , and Orlando, as a management consultant, and also ran a Congressional campaign.

Newly Named News Directors:

Painter

WZZM-TV, Grand Rapids, MI…congratulations to TAZ PAINTER who’s been named news director for this Gannett-owned ABC affiliate. It’s a move within Gannett for Taz, who’s been the Managing Editor for WBIR-TV in Knoxville for the past seven years. He’s also worked in Albuquerque and Greenville, SC. Luckily his wife is from Michigan so she can guide him through the brutal Grand Rapids winters! Taz replaces STANTON TANG who announced several weeks ago he’d be leaving the station to be closer to family out west.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:   

News Director, WDAM-TV, Hattiesburg, MS:

WDAM News has a unique opportunity for an experienced news manager to expand their vision and skills in one of the best news markets in America as a News Director.

Located in the heart of the Mississippi Pine Belt, the area boasts a superb quality of life. With a low cost of living coupled with first-class schools, and a great mass communication school, University of Southern Mississippi, it’s a great place to settle. The station is part of the Raycom Media group of television stations, which means that they have state of the art equipment and a strong culture of continuous training and opportunity for growth within the company.

The successful candidate will have at least five years of experience as an executive producer or higher level news leadership. Applicants should have a well developed nose for news plus the following experience base:

• Strategic planning and execution
• Sweeps planning and TSR development
• Human resources
• First Amendment/Journalism law,
• Daily news gathering logistics and operations
• Television production
• Digital news gathering
• Social Media

Above all else, exceptional “people skills, the ability to resolve conflict, guide, direct and grow the skill set of all in the news department is a must.

If you want to be a leader in an award winning, aggressive newsroom that makes a difference in its community, then apply online and upload your resume and references by clicking here.

No phone calls please. EOE-M/F/D/

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

WBNS-TV, Central Ohio’s News Leader, seeks a dynamic Senior 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 newscast production and assisting in development of news department strategy.

This position requires at least eight years experience in local television news as Producer and Executive Producer, with at least three years as EP or similar; excellent news judgment and communication skills, and above average writing and storytelling skills. 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.

Qualified individuals may submit their resume online at dispatchbroadcast.com.

Dispatch Broadcast Group is an equal opportunity employer.
We are a drug free workplace.

Digital Managing Editor, WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH:

WBNS-TV is searching for a Digital Managing Editor to drive digital coverage on all platforms, including 10tv.com and mobile.

The successful candidate will coordinate the process of publishing and updating digital content with compelling text and images, managing breaking news coverage and ensure complementary branding for on-air product.

This is a fast paced, hands on role responsible for taking an active role in writing, editing, approving and publishing content daily while also providing direction and leadership to news and digital staff that is also responsible for creating and implementing strategic plans, collaborating with other Dispatch properties on special and non-news sections and analyzing digital reports and statistics.

This position requires at least three years experience working in the newsroom of a TV station or news publication, working knowledge of html, javascript, dynamic html, cgi and photo editing and publishing, preferably with Adobe Photoshop. Knowledge of AP Internet style required. Bachelors degree in journalism or broadcast journalism and previous supervisory experience strongly preferred.

Qualified individuals may submit a resume online at dispatchbroadcast.com.

Dispatch Broadcast Group is an equal opportunity employer.
We are a drug free workplace.

Assignment Manager, WSPA-TV, Spartanburg, SC:

WSPA-TV, covering the beautiful Carolinas, is seeking a strong leader to join our news team.

Candidates must have a background in advocacy journalism and show proven success managing multiple employees. The Assignment Manager oversees the assignment desk, editors and photographers and should be practiced in multi-tasking. The right candidate should have a proven track record in organizing, planning, and executing long and short term news coverage.

Candidates should have 5 years experience in a medium to large market with proven leadership skills.

Email your resume to hr@wspa.com or via mail to:

Human Resources
WSPA-TV
250 International Drive
Spartanburg SC 29303

Digital Executive Producer, WJCL/WGTS-TV, Savannah, GA:

Lin Media is expanding its digital content footprint with the ABC and Fox affiliates in one of the most beautiful DMA’s in the country, Savannah, GA/Hilton Head, SC. We have historic cities, beautiful geography, beaches near-by and very mild winters. LinMedia is one of the most progressive media companies in the business and is investing in Savannah in its properties, its people and its communities.

WJCL is now accepting résumés for Digital Executive Producer. The position is responsible for news content oversight, brand execution as well as managing people and workflows. The DEP is a newsroom leader and must have passionate vision for digitally executing local news coverage.

The DEP is charged with managing the daily editorial operations of the stations digital portfolio of web sites, projects and initiatives.

A journalism degree and 2+ years experience writing/editing in a newsroom is required. HTML experience is preferred.

Send to HR@wjcl.com

No phone calls please.

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WFLD/WPWR-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 1/26/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/1/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KTVU-TV, Oakland/San Francisco, CA (Special Projects, relisted 2/14/14)
KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, listed 2/1/14)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (Web EP, listed 2/22/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa. FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KCRA-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 1/12/14)
KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO (listing revised 2/1/14)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Senior EP, new listing this week, see ad above!)
WDJT-TV, Milwaukee, WI (PM EP, relisted 2/1/14)
WXIX-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 Openings, listed 2/14/14)
WJAR-TV, Providence, RI (listed 1/26/14)
KGPE/KSEE-TV, Fresno, CA (AM EP, listed 2/8/14)
KTUL-TV, Tulsa, OK (relisted 2/22/14)
KGUN-TV, Tucson, AZ (Morning EP, listed 1/18/14)
WSJV-TV, South Bend/Elkhart, IN (relisted 2/22/14)
WJCL/WGTS-TV, Savannah, GA (Digital EP, listed 3/7/14, see ad above!)
WKBN-TV, Youngstown, OH (Dayside EP, listing revised 3/7/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WSB-TV, Atlanta, GA (Assistant News Ops. Mgr, relisted 1/12/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 1/26/14)
WSPA-TV, Spartanburg, SC (new listing this week, see ad above!)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WVIT-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 1/18/14)
WBNS-TV, Columbus, OH (Digital ME, new listing this week, see ad above!)

Situations Wanted:

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

Names in the News:

KXAS-TV, the NBC o-and-o in Dallas/Ft. Worth, has hired DEAN TRAVINSKI as its Morning Executive Producer. It’s a return to Dallas and Texas for Dean, who once worked at WFAA-TV as a producer. Dean’s a Texas native who worked in his hometown of Waco before moving on to Oklahoma City, where he worked for two different stations. Most recently Dean was the morning EP for KCTV in Kansas City.

Simons

YVONNE SIMONS crosses the country to become the next Assistant News Director for KOVR-TV in Sacramento. She’s spent the last 3 1/2 years in the same role for WBTV in Charlotte. Before that she was an ND for two years in Boise. During her career. Yvonne has worked in Las Vegas, Columbus, Raleigh, Norfolk, and Champaign, IL, often as a reporter and anchor.

MICHELLE PALMER moves within Meredith to become an Executive Producer for WSMV-TV in Nashville. She’s been a producer for sister-Meredith station WFSB-TV in Hartford. She’s also worked for another Hartford station and for News 12 Connecticut.

Former Indianapolis (WISH-TV and WRTV) News Director KEVIN FINCH takes a look at the CBS Morning News (and its clever use of music) in this story on the RTDNA website.

General Manager News:

I’m not aware of any GM moves this week.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Sunday, March 16, 2014.

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

KWHY-TV 1201 West 5th St., # T-900 Los Angeles CA 90017 *
KTTV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St. Miami FL 33175 *
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
WEWS-TV 3001 Euclid Ave. Cleveland OH 44115
KMOV-TV One Memorial Dr. St. Louis MO 63101
KOIN-TV 222 SW Columbia St. Portland OR 97201
WCNC-TV 1001 Wood Ridge Center Dr. Charlotte NC 28217
WTMJ-TV 720 E. Capitol Dr. Milwaukee WI 53212
KVDA-TV 6234 San Pedro San Antonio TX 78216 *
WHP-TV 3300 North 6th Street Harrisburg PA 17110
WIAT-TV 2075 Golden Crest Drive Birmingham AL 35209
WHAS-TV 520 W. Chestnut St. Louisville KY 40203
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WOI-TV 3903 Westown Parkway West Des Moines IA 50266
WAAY-TV 1000 Monte Sano Boulevard Huntsville AL 35801
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway Brownsville TX 78521
KCEN-TV 314 South Intestate 35 Eddy TX 76524
WCBD-TV 210 W. Coleman Blvd. Charleston SC 29464
WCYB/WEMT-TV 101 Lee St. Bristol TN 24201
WNCT-TV 3001 Euclid Ave. Greenville NC 27834
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave. Columbus GA 31901
WJHG-TV, 8195 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach FL 32407
WDAM-TV 2362 U.S. Highway 11 Moselle MS 39459 (see ad above!)
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

March 8, 2014

Friday, March 14, 2014 UPDATE:

Manuel

Longtime Cleveland News Director JILL MANUEL left WEWS-TV today, after more than 5 1/2 years as ND for this Scripps-owned ABC affiliate.

She previously was the ND for CLTV, the Tribune-owned cable news operation in Chicago. Jill also served as an EP for WBBM-TV in Chicago and also worked for the Fox News and the Fox News Channel.

We’ll have a lot to share with you in our full report, which I hope to finish sometime tomorrow afternoon.

Have a great weekend.

regards,

Rick Gevers

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

Greetings:

Often when a rating period ends, there’s a flurry of new news director openings.

Not so this time, at least not so far. I’m not aware of any new ND openings, while TWO vacant news directors jobs were filled this week.

Those changes leave our total of open ND jobs at 23.

We do have TWO paid help wanted ads.

In Names in the News, a groundbreaking producer leaves NBC News, a veteran Alabama ND gets promoted and a new title, and a promotion for a former ND.

All this…and more…below:

New News Director Openings:

I’m not aware of any new ND openings. If you know of any, please let me know via an email to: rick@rickgevers.com

Newly Named News Directors:

KWQC-TV, Davenport, IA…RICHARD KURZ makes the long trip from Portland, OR, to become ND for this Media General owned NBC affiliate. He’s worked for KGW-TV for the past 15 years: since 2006, as EP and Special Projects Producer, and earlier as a producer. Rich has also worked in Tucson, Washington, DC, and Columbia, MO. At KWQC, he replaces BETH MARSOUN who is stepping down as ND but will stay at the station. She was ND for 18 months, and has worked at the station for 10 years.

WLUC-TV, Marquette, MI…STEVE ASPLUND has been promoted to news director for this NBC/FOX duopoly. He’s an anchor there, and has worked at the station for more than 30 years. Steve replaces REGINA ROBINSON who left the station earlier this year after two years as ND.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:   

Digital Executive Producer, WJCL/WGTS-TV, Savannah, GA:

Lin Media is expanding its digital content footprint with the ABC and Fox affiliates in one of the most beautiful DMA’s in the country, Savannah, GA/Hilton Head, SC. We have historic cities, beautiful geography, beaches near-by and very mild winters. LinMedia is one of the most progressive media companies in the business and is investing in Savannah in its properties, its people and its communities.

WJCL is now accepting résumés for Digital Executive Producer. The position is responsible for news content oversight, brand execution as well as managing people and workflows. The DEP is a newsroom leader and must have passionate vision for digitally executing local news coverage.

The DEP is charged with managing the daily editorial operations of the stations digital portfolio of web sites, projects and initiatives.

A journalism degree and 2+ years experience writing/editing in a newsroom is required. HTML experience is preferred.

Send to HR@wjcl.com

No phone calls please.

News Director, Small Market, Upper Midwest:

Looking for your first shot as a news director? Now’s the time! A terrific ownership group is seeking a hands on leader for this growing small market affiliate in the upper Midwest.

If you’re a sleeves rolled up mentor who can drive compelling content and products on multiple platforms, know this. We’re the company to give you the chance and the support to grow both our team and you. Apply now to tvnewsdirector@gmail.com

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WFLD/WPWR-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 1/26/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/1/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KTVU-TV, Oakland/San Francisco, CA (Special Projects, relisted 2/14/14)
KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, listed 2/1/14)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (Web EP, listed 2/22/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa. FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KCRA-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 1/12/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (relisted 1/12/14)
KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO (listing revised 2/1/14)
WDJT-TV, Milwaukee, WI (PM EP, relisted 2/1/14)
WXIX-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 Openings, listed 2/14/14)
WJAR-TV, Providence, RI (listed 1/26/14)
KGPE/KSEE-TV, Fresno, CA (AM EP, listed 2/8/14)
KTUL-TV, Tulsa, OK (relisted 2/22/14)
KGUN-TV, Tucson, AZ (Morning EP, listed 1/18/14)
WSJV-TV, South Bend/Elkhart, IN (relisted 2/22/14)
WJCL/WGTS-TV, Savannah, GA (Digital EP, new listing this week, see ad above!)
WKBN-TV, Youngstown, OH (Dayside EP, listing revised this week)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WSB-TV, Atlanta, GA (Assistant News Ops. Mgr, relisted 1/12/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 1/26/14)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WVIT-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 1/18/14)

Situations Wanted:

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

Names in the News:

CHERYL GOULD, the first female EP of the NBC Nightly News, is leaving the network after 37 years. Learn more by clicking here.

Kelly

Congratulations to GARRY KELLY, who’s been promoted to Vice President and News Director for WBMA-TV in Birmingham. Garry’s been the only ND for this ABC affiliate since it began news 18 years ago. He earlier had been an ND in Huntsville, and worked in Nashville, Denver, and Detroit. Friends can send him a note of congratulations to: garryk@abc3340.com

JEREMY SETTLE has been promoted to Assistant ND for News 12 New Jersey. He’s been an EP there for the past year, has been an ND in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Charlottesville, VA, and for NewsChannel 8 in Washington, DC. He’s also worked for the Fox News Channel.

JON STROSHINE is the new Digital EP for WKBN-TV in Youngstown, OH.

General Manager News:

I’m not aware of any GM moves this week.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Friday, March 7, 2014.

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

KWHY-TV 1201 West 5th St., # T-900 Los Angeles CA 90017 *
KTTV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St. Miami FL 33175 *
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMOV-TV One Memorial Dr. St. Louis MO 63101
KOIN-TV 222 SW Columbia St. Portland OR 97201
WCNC-TV 1001 Wood Ridge Center Dr. Charlotte NC 28217
WTMJ-TV 720 E. Capitol Dr. Milwaukee WI 53212
KVDA-TV 6234 San Pedro San Antonio TX 78216 *
WZZM-TV 645 Three Mile Road NW Grand Rapids MI 49504
WHP-TV 3300 North 6th Street Harrisburg PA 17110
WIAT-TV 2075 Golden Crest Drive Birmingham AL 35209
WHAS-TV 520 W. Chestnut St. Louisville KY 40203
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WOI-TV 3903 Westown Parkway West Des Moines IA 50266
WAAY-TV 1000 Monte Sano Boulevard Huntsville AL 35801
KCEN-TV 314 South Intestate 35 Eddy TX 76524
WCBD-TV 210 W. Coleman Blvd. Charleston SC 29464
WCYB/WEMT-TV 101 Lee St. Bristol TN 24201
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave. Columbus GA 31901
WJHG-TV, 8195 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach FL 32407
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway Brownsville TX 78521
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station

* Spanish language station

March 2, 2014

Greetings:

Jim Boyle

JIM BOYLE. the longtime news director for KSAT-TV in San Antonio, died this morning after a five month long battle with cancer. He turned 66 late last month. Jim is survived by his wife, two daughters, and some grandchildren.

Jim spent almost 30 years as ND for this ABC affiliate, now owned by Post-Newsweek. He left the station last September after the cancer diagnosis. He also worked in Baltimore and San Diego. The station has this story on its website right now. If they update it with another (which presumably would include funeral and memorial information) I’ll add it here.

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

Turning to our regular content, there are FOUR new ND openings this week, and FOUR newly named news directors, leaving our count of open ND jobs at 25. One of those openings returns to the list after a recently appointed ND will not take the new job (details below).

We have a new blind box ad for a small market/midwest news director opening, as well as ads for a medium market ND job, a Web EP job in Washington, and another EP opening in Indiana.

We have lots of well known names in Names in the News: a veteran consultant is about to get his second kidney transplant, a former News Director turned Dallas Assistant ND takes a corporate news position, and the well known wife of a late ND is on the mend after a heart attack.

New News Director Openings:

WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI…BILL BERRA is leaving this Journal Broadcasting owned NBC affiliate after nine years to take the same job at WFLA-TV in Tampa. More on that below. Bill was also VP/News for station owner Journal Broadcasting.

Eure

WHAS-TV, Louisville, KY…this Gannett owned ABC affiliate is looking for a news director…again…after announcing that JOSH EURE would not be joining the staff. He’ll remain in his old job as Assistant ND for KPNX-TV in Phoenix. We told you last week that Josh was moving to WHAS. This story explains what happened. The job’s been open since September when MARK NEERMAN resigned.

Cashen

WSET-TV, Lynchburg, VA…BOB CASHEN has left this currently-owned-by-Albritton-but-being-bought-by-Sinclair ABC affiliate after just a few months as news director. We told you last October that Bob was joining WSET because it brought him back to Virginia, a state he loves. Bob had been ND at WALA-TV in Mobile for the past nine years. He’s also been an ND in Norfolk, Shreveport, and Waterloo, IA, and has worked in San Antonio and Oklahoma City. BILL FOYhad been ND here for seven years before taking a PR job last summer.

WCBD-TV, Charleston, SC…SCOTT FLANNIGAN is leaving this Media General owned NBC affiliate to become ND for WALA-TV in Mobile, where he’ll replace the above mentioned BOB CASHEN. More on this below.

Newly Named News Directors:

Berra

WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL…veteran ND BILL BERRA returns to Tampa as ND for this Media General owned NBC affiliate. We told you about this move last Monday. Bill’s spent the last nine years as ND for WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee, and as VP/News for parent Journal Broadcasting. But he’s been commuting to Tampa where his family remained after Bill left the ND job at WFTS-TV. He’s also been an ND in Columbus, OH, Orlando, Phoenix, St. Louis and Memphis. At WFLA, he replaces DON NORTHwho left the station in November after eight years as ND.

Flannigan

WALA-TV, Mobile, AL…we told you above that SCOTT FLANNIGAN will be the next News Director for this LIN Media owned FOX affiliate. Scott’s a Mobile native. He’s been the ND for WCBD-TV in Charleston, SC, since 2010, and earlier was the ND for KPLC-TV in Lake Charles, LA. He replaces BOB CASHENwho left the station last fall to become the ND for WSET-TV in Lynchburg, VA.

Reeves

KOMU-TV, Columbia, MO…RANDY REEVES has been promotedto news director at this NBC affiliate, owned by the University of Missouri. As you know, the newsroom is staffed by Journalism school students, supervised by faculty members. Randy joined the faculty at KOMU in 2003 as Managing Editor and was promoted to Executive Producer in 2010. He earlier worked in Salinas, CA, and Grand Rapids, MI. and worked in radio in Kentucky. Randy will assume his new role on September 1

He replaces 24 year veteran KOMU ND STACEY WOELFEL. We told you earlier this week that Stacey had been tabbedto lead the new Jonathan Murray Documentary Journalism Center at the School of Journalism. Stacey’s been on the KOMU staff since 1986 and was promoted to ND in 2000. He’s a past chairman of RTDNA. After working at KOMU while earning the first of his three degrees from Missouri, Stacey worked as a photographer and Assignment Editor in Orlando.

KBOI-TV, Boise, ID…KENDRA MARTINEZ has been promoted to ND for this Sinclair owned CBS affiliate. She’s been the managing editor there. Kendra replaces CAROL CARREAU who joined the station in January, 2013.

Paid Help Wanted Ads:   

News Director, Small Market, Upper Midwest:

Looking for your first shot as a news director? Now’s the time! A terrific ownership group is seeking a hands on leader for this growing small market affiliate in the upper Midwest.

If you’re a sleeves rolled up mentor who can drive compelling content and products on multiple platforms, know this. We’re the company to give you the chance and the support to grow both our team and you. Apply now to tvnewsdirector@gmail.com

News Director, WCYB/WEMT-TV, Tri-Cities, VA/TN:

We are looking for a passionate newsroom leader to join our team at the #1 station in beautiful Tri-Cities VA/TN. WCYB (NBC) / WEMT (FOX) has an opening for an aggressive, experienced, hands-on News Director who is committed to providing leadership and a vision for the future.

We produce over 38 hours of live news each week on two stations and have a thriving digital presence tied to on-air via online, mobile and social media. Successful candidates will be able to manage a large staff, handle budget responsibilities and will love to coach and train newsroom personnel. You will work closely with the team to develop and execute our strategic news plan tied to viewer research.

Candidates will have a track record as a team player and will promote a collaborative work environment in concert with our company’s “Culture of Excellence”. If you are the one to lead our #1 news operation and help our team grow to the next level, then you need to apply.

Qualified candidates should contact Jack Dempsey, VP & General Manager, via email at jdempsey@wcyb.com

No phone calls please. WCYB is owned by Bonten Media Group. EEOC

Web Executive Producer, WJLA-TV, Washington, DC:

ABC 7 News/WJLA.com is seeking an aggressive multimedia journalist to lead our web team. Our new executive producer will supervise and contribute to the production of written and multimedia news content for WJLA.com.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, managing and scheduling web producers, coordinating content with the WJLA-TV Managing Editor, maintaining top quality content on the site at all times, gathering news updates from reporters in the field, writing and reporting news articles and emails, writing headlines and teases, producing video clips, implementing engaging features, managing social media and managing the homepage.

The ideal candidate will possess strong news judgment, attention to detail, copy editing skills, familiarity with content management systems and a strong knowledge of how to reach out to a large audience on Facebook and Twitter. Above all, though, we are looking for a driven, creative candidate who works well under pressure and has a keen eye on the future of digital journalism.

Send resume and cover letter to eensign@wjla.com

Executive Producer, WSJV-TV, Elkhart/South Bend, IN:

Ready to play B-I-G?

WSJV-TV, FOX for South Bend IN (market #96) is expanding and has an immediate opening for an executive producer. With a three hour morning show and a nightly news hour, we need a hands-on, inspired leader to create, groom and grow these already award winning news products.

If you’re ready to take the wheel of one of these race cars apply to: wsjvep@quincyinc.com

FOX 28 is a Quincy station. Learn why our family owned broadcast group has a reputation as one of the best companies to work for in the industry today at www.careersatquincy.com

Other News Management Openings:

ASSISTANT NEWS DIRECTOR:

WFLD/WPWR-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 1/26/14)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KOVR-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 2/1/14)
KUSI-TV, San Diego, CA (listed 1/12/14)

EXECUTIVE NEWS PRODUCER:

KTVU-TV, Oakland/San Francisco, CA (Special Projects, relisted 2/14/14)
KXAS-TV, Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX (Morning EP, listed 2/1/14)
WJLA-TV, Washington, DC (Web EP, listed 2/22/14, see ad above!)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (listed 2/14/14)
WFLA-TV, Tampa. FL (relisted 2/1/14)
KCRA-TV, Sacramento, CA (listed 1/12/14)
WSMV-TV, Nashville, TN (relisted 1/12/14)
KSHB-TV, Kansas City, MO (listing revised 2/1/14)
WDJT-TV, Milwaukee, WI (PM EP, relisted 2/1/14)
WXIX-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 Openings, listed 2/14/14)
WJAR-TV, Providence, RI (listed 1/26/14)
KGPE/KSEE-TV, Fresno, CA (AM EP, listed 2/8/14)
KTUL-TV, Tulsa, OK (relisted 2/22/14)
KGUN-TV, Tucson, AZ (Morning EP, listed 1/18/14)
WSJV-TV, South Bend/Elkhart, IN (relisted 2/22/14, see ad above!)
WKBN-TV, Youngstown, OH (2 openings, Dayside EP & Digital EP, listed 1/10/14)

NEWS OPERATIONS MANAGER:

WSB-TV, Atlanta, GA (Assistant News Ops. Mgr, relisted 1/12/14)

ASSIGNMENT MANAGER:

WKMG-TV, Orlando, FL (listed 1/26/14)

MANAGING EDITOR:

WVIT-TV, Hartford, CT (listed 1/18/14)

Situations Wanted:

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

Names in the News:

Smith

DAVE SMITH, CEO of consulting firm SmithGeiger, is scheduled for his second kidney transplant March 19th. The donor? His daughter, HARPER,who posted this. It’s Dave’s second transplant: his first was about 13 years ago. You can…and should…learn more by clicking here. Dave co-founded SmithGeiger in 2000 after a long career at Magid. He’s also worked in Oklahoma City and St. Joseph, MO, and worked at the University of Missouri’s KOMU-TV in Columbia, MO, where we first met when I was a senior and he was a graduate teaching assistant. Dave tells me he hopes to be back at work in April…though maybe not in time for NAB. Your kind note would reach Dave at: dave@smithgeiger.com

Still on the medical beat, best wishes to MARGARET VANCE, widow of the late BILL VANCE, a longtime ND in Dallas, Detroit, Columbus, OH, Providence and Baton Rouge. She’s recovering from a heart attack and angioplasty where physicians inserted two stents. Many of you know Margaret, who was regularly with Bill at industry conventions. Wish her well at: mbv5963@att.net

CHRIS BERG has been named Director of Local Content Development-West for Nexstar Broadcasting. He’ll be based in Dallas, which means he won’t have to move from his current job as Assistant ND for WFAA-TV in Dallas. Chris is a former ND in Minneapolis and Albuquerque, and has also worked in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Sherman, TX. It’s a new position for Nexstar…he’ll work with JERRY WALSH who’s been the only Director of Local Content Development.

TRACIE McKINNEY is joining WTSP-TV (CBS/Gannett) as Assistant ND. She’s been the Assistant ND at a sister Gannett station, WVEC-TV, in Norfolk. She’s also worked for two stations in St. Louis, and as a reporter in Bridgeport, WV, and Roanoke.

General Manager News:

MARK STRACHOTA has been named GM for WDJT-TV, the Weigel owned CBS affiliate in Milwaukee. He earlier spent 28 years at WTMJ-TV in Milwaukee.

Our Full List of ND Openings:

Here is my list of stations with open ND jobs, as of Saturday, March 1, 2014.

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

KWHY-TV 1201 West 5th St., # T-900 Los Angeles CA 90017 *
KTTV 1999 S. Bundy Dr. Los Angeles CA 90025
WLTV 9405 NW 41st St. Miami FL 33175 *
KCEC-TV 777 Grant St. #110 Denver CO 80203 *
KMOV-TV One Memorial Dr. St. Louis MO 63101
KOIN-TV 222 SW Columbia St. Portland OR 97201
WCNC-TV 1001 Wood Ridge Center Dr. Charlotte NC 28217
WTMJ-TV 720 E. Capitol Dr. Milwaukee WI 53212
KVDA-TV 6234 San Pedro San Antonio TX 78216 *
WZZM-TV 645 Three Mile Road NW Grand Rapids MI 49504
WHP-TV 3300 North 6th Street Harrisburg PA 17110
WIAT-TV 2075 Golden Crest Drive Birmingham AL 35209
WHAS-TV 520 W. Chestnut St. Louisville KY 40203
WSET-TV 2320 Langhorne Rd. Lynchburg VA 24501
WOI-TV 3903 Westown Parkway West Des Moines IA 50266
WAAY-TV 1000 Monte Sano Boulevard Huntsville AL 35801
KCEN-TV 314 South Intestate 35 Eddy TX 76524
WCBD-TV 210 W. Coleman Blvd. Charleston SC 29464
WCYB/WEMT-TV 101 Lee St. Bristol TN 24201 (see ad above!)
KWQC-TV 805 Brady St. Davenport IA 52803
WRBL-TV 1350 13th Ave. Columbus GA 31901
WJHG-TV, 8195 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach FL 32407
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway Brownsville TX 78521
WLUC-TV 177 US Highway 41 East Negaunee MI 49866
WBUP/WBKP-TV 1705 Ash Street Ishpeming MI 49849

* Spanish language station