June 25, 2011

Greetings:

This week’s report features a lot of new news directors, including one in Portland (OR) and another one in Portland (ME).

In all, FIVE stations welcomed (well, I hope they welcomed) new NDs, while TWO other stations have new openings.

That brings our count of open ND jobs to 32.

FOUR of those open jobs are featured in paid ads below, with two of those being new ads this week.  And we also have an ad for a management position in Cleveland.

We also have new listings in our Other News Management Openings section.

In Names in the News, winners of the RTDNA/Unity awards, and details about the death of the partner of a retired well known educator and former ND.

That and more after this week’s changes:

Newly Named News Directors:

KMEX-TV, Los Angeles, CA…MARIO FLORES has been promoted to news director for this Univsion station.  He’s been the Executive Producer there (and acting ND) since December after leaving Univision’s KTVW-TV in Phoenix, where he spent more than eight years as ND.  He’d earlier worked as an EP and producer there, and also worked in Palm Desert, CA.  He replaces ROBERT YANEZ who moved to Mario’s old station, KTVW-TV in Phoenix, as GM.  Robert was ND in Los Angeles for 2 1/2 years.

KOIN-TV, Portland, OR…BRAD NEUHOFF will be the next ND for this CBS affiliate.  He’s been the ND for WIS-TV in Columbia, SC, since September, 2008.  Brad previously worked as an EP in Minneapolis and a producer in Los Angeles and Denver.  He replaces LYNN HEIDER who left this New Vision station in December after almost three years as ND.

Gilchriest

WAVY/WVBT-TV, Portsmouth, VA…JIM GILCHRIEST returns to the East Coast as ND for this LIN Media owned NBC/FOX duopoly.  Jim’s been ND for Belo’s KTVB-TV in Boise, ID, since 2007 (more on that below).  He previously spent many years in a variety of roles at WCNC-TV in Charlotte, eventually rising to Assistant News Director.  He’d also been an AND at WXII-TV in Winston-Salem, and worked for two stations in Rochester, NY.  He began his career in radio news.  In Norfolk, he replaces APRIL SAMP who returned to Iowa (and a job out of television) last month so that she could spend more time with family.

WPMI-TV, Mobile, AL…BOB NOONAN is back in an ND job as he’ll take over for this Newport owned NBC affiliate. Bob is currently the Assistant ND for WREG-TV in Memphis. Before that, he was the ND for WGNO-TV in New Orleans and earlier was the Assistant ND for WVUE-TV in New Orleans. He’s also been an ND in Hattiesburg and Jackson, MS, and Bowling Green, KY. Bob also worked in Biloxi, MS, where he won a Peabody for a documentary that he wrote, producer, and anchored. This move will allow him to be closer to family in Louisiana. He replaces WES FINLEY who left the station last month to become ND for WKEF-TV in Dayton after two-plus years as ND in Mobile.

Beveridge

WMTW-TV, Portland, ME…congratulations to AMY BEVERIDGE who’s been promoted to News Director.  She had been the Assistant ND for this Hearst-owned ABC station.  Amy has earlier worked as a producer for Hearst stations in Baltimore and West Palm Beach, FL, and has also worked in Redding, CA, and as a web producer in Boston.  She replaces GEORGE MATZ who was promoted with Hearst to be the Assistant ND for the company’s Kansas City station, KMBC-TV. George left earlier this year after six years as ND at WMTW.

New News Director Openings:

KEYT-TV, Santa Barbara, CA….JIM BUNNER has left this ABC affiliate after almost five years as ND.  Jim had previously worked for both KCBS-TV and KNBC-TV in Los Angeles.  KEYT is owned by Smith Media.  Learn more about this opportunity in the paid ad below.

KTVB-TV, Boise, ID…as reported above, JIM GILCHRIEST is leaving this Belo-owned NBC affiliate to become the next ND for WAVY/WVBT-TV in the Norfolk, VA, market.  He’s been ND here since October, 2007.

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

Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, KEYT-TV, Santa Barbara, CA:

KEYT-TV, the ABC affiliate in Santa Barbara, CA seeks an accomplished and dynamic News Director to lead our local news operation.

The ideal candidate must mentor and direct a News Team that effectively delivers content on multi-media platforms relevant to current and next generation news consumers, which includes but is not limited to high-quality writing and producing with high ethical standards. This opportunity requires full business managerial competence, including but not limited to fiscal budget responsibilities, communicating openly with other station management, employee staffing and performance reviews.

The minimum requirements: Bachelors degree in journalism. Five to ten years of full time professional reporting or producing experience, which includes experience in a newsroom environment gathering, writing, and feature reports. Minimum four years of television news management experience. A combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved may also be considered.

Please send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to:

Human Resources
KEYT-TV
730 Miramonte Drive
Santa Barbara CA 93109

or email to keytap@keyt.com

KEYT-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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

News Director, WAGM-TV, Presque Isle, ME:

WAGM-TV in Presque Isle, Maine is seeking a news director who loves the news, loves to teach, loves to produce, and loves the great outdoors.

The WAGM News Director will be responsible for establishing and maintaining market leading standards, goals, and tactics for newsroom operations and content. The News Director will also be responsible for hiring, coaching, mentoring, supervising and evaluating newsroom personnel as well as preparation and administration of newsroom budgets and capital requests. The News Director is expected to work closely with the General Manger and other department managers to achieve the company’s overall performance goals.

The News Director must be able to demonstrate strong working knowledge of community issues and needs, understand sound journalistic principles, oversee all content gathering and presentation in a visual and viewer oriented storytelling style and must have the ability to make fast, accurate journalistic and logistical judgments.

Applicants should have at least 3-5 years of newsroom management experience, and a 4 year college degree is preferred.

Pay is dependent on experience.

Please email resume to : Carole M. Kozloski, COO NEPSK Inc dba WAGM-TV, at ckozloski@wagmtv.com

Or mail to:

WAGM-TV
Attention Carole M Kozloski
COO
12 Brewer Road
Presque Isle ME 04769

WAGM-TV is an EEO Employer

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

News Director, WLNE-TV, Providence, RI:

This position is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, competitive, energetic person with solid news and personnel judgement. Prior News Director experience is required.

We are in the process of fully converting the Newsroom to full HD. Experience with a Newsroom HD transition would be helpful.

Our successful candidate will be the type of leader who is a highly focused, get it done well, motivator. Someone who knows how to produce top quality newscasts filled with well written, compelling and impactful story telling.

A firm grasp of News promotion is critically important, as is a history of Web based news and social media management.

If this describes you then we should talk!

Please send – resume, news philosophy, salary history, DVD and/or Web link to:

Allen Sandubrae
VP – News
Citadel Communications Company
3903 Westown Parkway
West Des Moines IA 50266

Email: ASandubrae@myabc5.com
Phone: 515.457.9645 ext. 129

Please note: phone calls will be accepted only after initial email/mail is received.

This position will close June 30, 2011.
Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. EOE

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

Reposted:  News Director, WREX-TV, Rockford, IL:

We are looking for a dynamic newsroom leader to take our team to the next level.

WREX in Rockford, IL seeks a News Director to help guide our news department to new heights of journalistic and ratings success. We produce five daily newscasts and the strongest TV web content in the market. This is an exciting opportunity to join a great team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing and maintaining market leading standards for newsroom operations and content. Other duties include hiring, coaching, supervising and evaluating news personnel as well as preparation and administration of newsroom budgets and capital requests. Reporting to the VP/GM, the News Director is expected to work closely with other department managers to achieve the company’s overall performance goals.

A minimum of 8 years television news management experience and a college degree in broadcast journalism is preferred. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate strong working knowledge of community issues and needs, as well as sound journalistic principles, and must have the ability to make fast, accurate journalistic and logistical judgments.

If you have a passion for excellence and a burning desire to lead the best local broadcast news operation in Rockford, IL we want to hear from you.

WREX offers a competitive traditional benefits package plus health club membership and an HDTV purchase program.

Please send your resume to:

John Chadwick
Vice-President, General Manager
WREX
P.O. Box 530
Rockford, IL 61105

or via email to: jchadwick@wrex.com

WREX Television, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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

Managing Editor, WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH:

WEWS NewsChannel 5 is seeking an innovative Managing Editor with proven ability in a medium to large market with positive impact on ratings and content quality.

The Managing Editor is responsible for organizing and coordinating assignment desk staff and multi-media journalists (MMJs) to facilitate daily news coverage for multiple platforms. Duties include:

• Manage daily editorial flow, including assigning MMJs, photojournalists, and assignment desk staff to cover daily news stories and events;
• Lead daily news planning and coverage;
• Supervise and schedule MMJs, content coordinators, and assignment desk staff to manage overtime;
• Review content, ensuring journalistic balance, for all platforms;
• Implement and have working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws impacting operations;
• Assist editorial staff in developing all news coverage plans;
• Work closely with executive producers on distribution of coverage;
• Knowledge and proficiency in posting content to station websites;
• Knowledge and proficiency in using social media to enhance newsgathering and customer engagement.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline; at least five (5) years newsroom management experience with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast paced environment. Must possess advanced oral and written communication skills and have the ability to work a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays.

Please submit cover letter, resume and salary requirements by applying on-line:

WEWS, NewsChannel 5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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

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

Other News Management Openings:

Assistant News Director:

WFLD-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 4/22/11)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 4/15/11)
KSDK-TV, St. Louis, MO (relisted 5/8/11)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/1/11)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 6/10/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted this week)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 6/17/11)
WREG-TV, Memphis, TN (new listing this week)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 5/27/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (relisted this week)
WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA (listed 6/10/11)

Executive News Producer:

The Weather Channel, Atlanta, GA (Weekend EP, listed 5/13/11)
KTVK-TV, Phoenix, AZ (AM EP, listed 5/8/11)
Northwest Cable News, Seattle, WA (AM & PM EP, listing revised 5/27/11)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 6/3/11)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted 6/17/11)
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC (relisted 6/17/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 openings, AM & afternoon, relisted this week)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (Special Projects EP, relisted 6/17/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (new listing this week)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (AM EP, relisted 6/17/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (relisted this week)
WNWO-TV, Toledo, OH (AM EP, listed 6/3/11)
KRXI-TV, Reno, NV (PM EP, listed 5/20/11)

Special Projects Producer:

WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL (listed 5/20/11)

Managing Editor:

KIAH-TV, Houston, TX (listed 6/17/11)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted 6/17/11)
WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (listed 6/17/11, see ad above!)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (new listing this week)

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

Names in the News:

RTDNA announced the winners of the annual RTDNA/Unity awards this week.  The awards celebrate outstanding electronic journalism that focuses on diversity.  More details, including links to the winning entries, are in this RTDNA news release.

Our sympathy to old friend DICK NELSON on the loss of his longtime partner, AMRULLAH SAIDIN, who died last week at the age of 44.  Many of you know Dick who taught for many years, first at Missouri and later at Kansas, and also served as news director for several stations.  He retired from Kansas last year and moved to Indonesia, where Amrullah lived.  Am and Dick met in Jakarta many years ago while Dick was doing consulting work there.  Am worked in the US on several occasions, but returned to Indonesia when the recession eliminated his jobs.  Unfortunately, Am was diagnosed with advanced liver cancer shortly after Dick moved to Lambok.  Your kind note would reach Dick at: dicknelson459@gmail.com

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The Full List:

To the best of my knowledge, here is the list of stations with open news director jobs, as of Friday, June 24, 2011.

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

WTXF-TV 330 Market Street                             Philadelphia PA 19106
KARE-TV 8811 Olson Memorial Hwy.          Minneapolis MN 55427
KGW-TV 1501 SW Jefferson St.                       Portland OR 97201
WTNH/WCTX-TV 8 Elm St.                              New Haven CT 06510
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St.                                   Providence RI 02904 (see ad above)
WSAZ-TV 645 Fifth Ave.                                    Huntington WV 25701
KMSB-TV     1855 N. 6th Ave.                             Tucson AZ 85705
WTOL-TV 730 N. Summit St.                          Toledo OH 43604
WFRV-TV 1181 E. Mason St.                          Green Bay WI 54301
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St.                               Syracuse NY 13057
WIS-TV 1111 Bull St.                                          Columbia SC 29201
KWWL-TV 500 East Fourth St.                     Waterloo IA 50703
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway                        Brownsville TX 78521
WJCL/WTGS-TV 10001 Abercorn St.           Savannah GA 31406
KEYT-TV 730 Miramonte Dr.                  Santa Barbara CA 93109 (see ad above)
KTVB-TV 5407 Fairview Avenue            Boise ID 83706
KBAK/KBFX 1901 Westwind Dr.                   Bakersfield CA 93301
WREX-TV 10322 W. Auburn Rd.            Rockford IL 61105 (see ad above!)
WAOW-TV 1908 Grand Ave.                           Wausau WI 54403
WSAW-TV 1114 Grand Ave.                               Wausau WI 54403
KTKA-TV   2121 SW Chelsea Dr.                       Topeka KS 66614
WFXL-TV 1211 N. Slappey Blvd.                       Albany GA 31707
WOAY-TV Rte. 16 South                                     Oak Hill WV 25901
KIMT-TV 112 N. Pennsylvania Ave.                 Mason City IA 50401
WJHG-TV 8195 Front Beach Rd.                      Panama City Beach FL 32407
KSWT-TV 1301 Third Ave.                                  Yuma AZ 85364
KYMA-TV 1385 S. Pacific Ave.                          Yuma AZ 85365
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV-TV 5956 Smith Hill Rd.  Utica NY 13502
WLUC-TV 177 US Highway 41 East                Negaunee MI 49866
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                       Laredo TX 78045
KSAN/KLST-TV 2800 Armstrong                     San Angelo TX 76903
WAGM-TV 12 Brewer Road                          Presque Isle ME 04769 (see ad above)

June 17, 2011

Greetings:

A busy week, with FOUR new ND openings (two of at stations which recently underwent…or are undergoing…ownership changes).  And there are TWO new NDs to introduce to you.

That leaves our count of open ND positions at 35.

Two of those openings are featured  in paid help wanted ads below.  One is a new ad, the second is a reposting of an ad we first brought you in March.  There’s also an ad for a Managing Editor’s job in Cleveland, and an unusual ad (for us, at least) for someone looking for support from a TV station owners or station groups to produce a new TV project.  Check that ad out below.

We have freshened our list of Other News Management Openings, as well.

Also this week, an obituary for a two-time Las Vegas ND from the 70’s, and details about a memorial service for a former ND whose death we reported last week.  In Names in the News, a two-time ND (and past RTNDA President) is retiring from his GM’s job, we have the list of the National Edward R. Murrow Award winners, the RTDNA executive director is leaving the group, and details about some news managers on the move.

All that below, after this week’s changes:

New News Director Openings:

WLNE-TV, Providence, RI…DAN FABRIZIO has left this ABC affiliate after eight months as ND.  His departure came shortly after new owners took over the station. Before going to WLNE, Dan had been an ND in Charleston, SC, and also worked in Columbus, OH, with the former GM of WLNE, STEVE DOERR. More details on this opportunity in the paid ad below.

Tadlock

WSAZ-TV, Charleston-Huntington, WV…this Gray Television owned station has a posting for news director on its website.  GROVER TADLOCK has been ND there since November, 2009, when he was promoted from Managing Editor.  His first job was in that market as a part-time photographer.  He was promoted to Director of Photography in 2005 and bumped to Managing Editor in 2007.  I’ve left a message for him (he was at work today but unavailable when I called) but have not heard back.  WSAZ is an NBC affiliate.

WFRV-TV, Green Bay, WI…LEE HITTER, who’s been ND for 17 years at this CBS affiliate, is leaving the station, which is being sold by Liberty Media to Nexstar.  Lee was among 22 people who were notified last week that they were losing their jobs.  He’s worked at the station for more than 30 years, as a photographer, then Chief Photographer, then Fox Cities Bureau Chief before being named ND in 1994.  He also worked for one year as a photographer in La Crosse, WI.

WAGM-TV, Presque Isle, ME…News Director and Anchor JON GULLIVER has apparently left this CBS affiliate.

Newly Named News Directors:

KVAL-TV, Eugene, OR…SEAN FLANAGAN has been named ND for this Fisher Broadcasting owned CBS affiliate.  He’s currently an EP for KDVR/KWGN-TV in Denver, where he’s worked for eight years.  He’s also worked in Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Scranton-Wilkes/Barre.  At KVAL, he replaces JENNY KUGLIN who was promoted to Director of Social Media for station owner Fisher.

Graham

WCJB-TV, Gainesville, FL…TERRY GRAHAM has joined this Diversified Communications ABC affiliate as news director.  He most recently was ND and anchor for WFXL-TV in Albany, GA, leaving that job in April.  He’s also worked in Meridian, MS.  At WCJB, Terry replaces BRENT BUELL who left the station a few months ago…telling his staff he wanted to take some time off and pursue his hobbies, including underwater videography.  Brent was ND here for five years.

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

Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WLNE-TV, Providence, RI:

This position is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, competitive, energetic person with solid news and personnel judgement. Prior News Director experience is required.

We are in the process of fully converting the Newsroom to full HD. Experience with a Newsroom HD transition would be helpful.

Our successful candidate will be the type of leader who is a highly focused, get it done well, motivator. Someone who knows how to produce top quality newscasts filled with well written, compelling and impactful story telling.

A firm grasp of News promotion is critically important, as is a history of Web based news and social media management.

If this describes you then we should talk!

Please send – resume, news philosophy, salary history, DVD and/or Web link to:

Allen Sandubrae
VP – News
Citadel Communications Company
3903 Westown Parkway
West Des Moines IA 50266

Email: ASandubrae@myabc5.com
Phone: 515.457.9645 ext. 129

Please note: phone calls will be accepted only after initial email/mail is received.

This position will close June 30, 2011.
Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. EOE

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

Reposted:  News Director, WREX-TV, Rockford, IL:

We are looking for a dynamic newsroom leader to take our team to the next level.

WREX in Rockford, IL seeks a News Director to help guide our news department to new heights of journalistic and ratings success. We produce five daily newscasts and the strongest TV web content in the market. This is an exciting opportunity to join a great team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing and maintaining market leading standards for newsroom operations and content. Other duties include hiring, coaching, supervising and evaluating news personnel as well as preparation and administration of newsroom budgets and capital requests. Reporting to the VP/GM, the News Director is expected to work closely with other department managers to achieve the company’s overall performance goals.

A minimum of 8 years television news management experience and a college degree in broadcast journalism is preferred. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate strong working knowledge of community issues and needs, as well as sound journalistic principles, and must have the ability to make fast, accurate journalistic and logistical judgments.

If you have a passion for excellence and a burning desire to lead the best local broadcast news operation in Rockford, IL we want to hear from you.

WREX offers a competitive traditional benefits package plus health club membership and an HDTV purchase program.

Please send your resume to:

John Chadwick
Vice-President, General Manager
WREX
P.O. Box 530
Rockford, IL 61105

or via email to: jchadwick@wrex.com

WREX Television, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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

Managing Editor, WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH:

WEWS NewsChannel 5 is seeking an innovative Managing Editor with proven ability in a medium to large market with positive impact on ratings and content quality.

The Managing Editor is responsible for organizing and coordinating assignment desk staff and multi-media journalists (MMJs) to facilitate daily news coverage for multiple platforms. Duties include:

• Manage daily editorial flow, including assigning MMJs, photojournalists, and assignment desk staff to cover daily news stories and events;
• Lead daily news planning and coverage;
• Supervise and schedule MMJs, content coordinators, and assignment desk staff to manage overtime;
• Review content, ensuring journalistic balance, for all platforms;
• Implement and have working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws impacting operations;
• Assist editorial staff in developing all news coverage plans;
• Work closely with executive producers on distribution of coverage;
• Knowledge and proficiency in posting content to station websites;
• Knowledge and proficiency in using social media to enhance newsgathering and customer engagement.

The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline; at least five (5) years newsroom management experience with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast paced environment. Must possess advanced oral and written communication skills and have the ability to work a varied schedule, including weekends and holidays.

Please submit cover letter, resume and salary requirements by applying on-line:

WEWS, NewsChannel 5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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

Searching for partners for a new TV project:

Licensed female psychoanalyst with a private practice and national TV experience is partnering with a veteran network TV producer to create a remarkable, one-of-a-kind TV counseling series and/or program targeted to female viewers.

The psychnoanalyst and producer are currently reaching out to TV outlets/station groups, looking for financial cooperation to produce a pilot for possible expansion into a program, a series, and/or segments to air on TV newscasts and online.

E-mail your confidential contact information to info@tvcounseling.com and we will reply with specifics.

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

Other News Management Openings:

Assistant News Director:

WFLD-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 4/22/11)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 4/15/11)
KSDK-TV, St. Louis, MO (relisted 5/8/11)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/1/11)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted 6/10/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted this week)
KXAN-TV, Austin, TX (listed 5/8/11)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 5/27/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (listed 3/31/11)
WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA (listed 6/10/11)

Executive News Producer:

The Weather Channel, Atlanta, GA (Weekend EP, listed 5/13/11)
KTVK-TV, Phoenix, AZ (AM EP, listed 5/8/11)
Northwest Cable News, Seattle, WA (AM & PM EP, listing revised 5/27/11)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 6/3/11)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, relisted this week)
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC (relisted this week)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 openings, AM & afternoon, listing revised 4/15/11)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (Special Projects EP, relisted this week)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (AM EP, relisted this week)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (AM EP, listed 3/31/11)
WNWO-TV, Toledo, OH (AM EP, listed 6/3/11)
KRXI-TV, Reno, NV (PM EP, listed 5/20/11)

Special Projects Producer:

WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL (listed 5/20/11)
WSVN-TV, Miami, FL (relisted 4/15/11)

Managing Editor:

KIAH-TV, Houston, TX (new listing this week)
WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (relisted this week)
WEWS-TV, Cleveland, OH (new listing this week, see ad above!)

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

Names in the News:

Congratulations to WTHR-TV in Indianapolis and WGRZ-TV in Buffalo, winners of National Edward R. Murrow Awards for Overall Excellence.  The complete list of winners, including links to the entries, can be found here.

Godsey

News Director (twice) turned General Manager (four times) WAYNE GODSEY has announced his retirement later this year.  Wayne’s been GM of Hearst’s KMBC/KCWE-TV in Kansas City since 1999.  He’s also been a GM in Albuquerque and for two stations in Milwaukee, and was a news director in Milwaukee and Charlotte.  Wayne also served a term as President of RTNDA (now RTDNA).  He began his career as a reporter, photographer, and producer in Lynchburg, VA.  Friends can wish him well via email.

Nassiri

RTDNA’s executive director, JANE NASSIRI, is leaving later this year.  She first joined the organization in 1998 and has held a variety of positions, including controller, director of finance and administration, vice president of finance and administration and most recently, executive director. A search committee will soon begin reviewing resumes and applications.

WCBS-TV (New York) Executive Producer GARY KANOFSKY is moving to London to be a Senior Executive Producer for Bloomberg TV.  Gary’s been at WCBS since 2009, overseeing the 11:00 PM newscast.  He previously worked for CNBC.

TROY CONHAIN is joining KPHO-TV in Phoenix as EP of the station’s morning show.  He’s been an EP for KTXL-TV in Sacramento, where he worked for 14 years.

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

Obituaries & Memorial Service Plans:

Lewis-Nebot

FRED LEWIS-NEBOT, who served as news director for two different Las Vegas stations in the 70’s, died this week at the age of 79.  He was ND for both KTNV-TV and KLAS-TV before moving into a long career in public relations.  Fred also anchored for both stations, worked for CBS News as a field producer, and also worked in San Francisco.

Levy

Memorial services have been set for longtime newsman ALLEN LEVY whose passing we reported last week.  Friends will gather on Saturday, June 25, at 5:00 at the Metropolitan Community Church of Los Angeles, 4953 Franklin Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

More details are available at this website set up expressly in Allen’s honor.

Whether you’re attending or not, you’re invited to pass along stories, photos, and remembrances, via email to allenlevymemorial@gmail.com.  If you are planning on attending, organizers ask that you RSVP to that email address to help them with planning.

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

The Full List:

To the best of my knowledge, here is the list of stations with open news director jobs, as of Friday, June 17, 2011.

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

KMEX-TV 5999 Center Dr.                                  Los Angeles CA 90045  **
WTXF-TV 330 Market Street                             Philadelphia PA 19106
KARE-TV 8811 Olson Memorial Hwy.          Minneapolis MN 55427
KGW-TV 1501 SW Jefferson St.                       Portland OR 97201
KOIN-TV   222 SW Columbia St.                      Portland OR 97201
WTNH/WCTX-TV 8 Elm St.                              New Haven CT 06510
WAVY-TV 300 Wavy St.                                     Portsmouth VA 23705
WLNE-TV 10 Orms St.                                   Providence RI 02904 (see ad above)
WPMI-TV 661 Azalea Road                              Mobile AL 36609
WSAZ-TV 645 Fifth Ave.                             Huntington WV 25701
KMSB-TV     1855 N. 6th Ave.                             Tucson AZ 85705
WTOL-TV 730 N. Summit St.                          Toledo OH 43604
WFRV-TV 1181 E. Mason St.                     Green Bay WI 54301
WMTW-TV 99 Danville Corner Road           Portland ME 04210
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St.                               Syracuse NY 13057
WIS-TV 1111 Bull St.                                          Columbia SC 29201
KWWL-TV 500 East Fourth St.                     Waterloo IA 50703
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway                        Brownsville TX 78521
WJCL/WTGS-TV 10001 Abercorn St.           Savannah GA 31406
KBAK/KBFX 1901 Westwind Dr.                   Bakersfield CA 93301
WREX-TV 10322 W. Auburn Rd.            Rockford IL 61105 (see ad above!)
WAOW-TV 1908 Grand Ave.                           Wausau WI 54403
WSAW-TV 1114 Grand Ave.                               Wausau WI 54403
KTKA-TV   2121 SW Chelsea Dr.                       Topeka KS 66614
WFXL-TV 1211 N. Slappey Blvd.                       Albany GA 31707
WOAY-TV Rte. 16 South                                     Oak Hill WV 25901
KIMT-TV 112 N. Pennsylvania Ave.                 Mason City IA 50401
WJHG-TV 8195 Front Beach Rd.                      Panama City Beach FL 32407
KSWT-TV 1301 Third Ave.                                  Yuma AZ 85364
KYMA-TV 1385 S. Pacific Ave.                          Yuma AZ 85365
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV-TV 5956 Smith Hill Rd.  Utica NY 13502
WLUC-TV 177 US Highway 41 East                Negaunee MI 49866
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                       Laredo TX 78045
KSAN/KLST-TV 2800 Armstrong                     San Angelo TX 76903
WAGM-TV 12 Brewer Road                         Presque Isle ME 04769

** Spanish language station

June 10, 2011

Thursday, June 16, 2011:

A few quick updates today:  RTDNA released the list of National Edward R. Murrow winners.  Congratulations to WTHR-TV in Indianapolis and WGRZ-TV in Buffalo which were honored with Overall Excellence Awards.  The complete list, along with links to the winning entries, can be found here.

Also, there are at least two new ND openings.

DAN FABRIZIO has left WLNE-TV in Providence after eight months as ND, and shortly after new owners took over the station, an ABC affiliate.  An ad for that position is posted below.

And longtime ND LEE HITTER is leaving WFRV-TV after 17 years as ND and more than 30 at the station, where he started as a photographer.  Nexstar is in the process of buying that CBS affiliate from Liberty Media.

We’ll have lots more in our regular weekly report tomorrow, including the retirement of a former two-time ND turned GM.

Monday, June 13, 2011:

We have information about a memorial service for ALLEN LEVY, whose passing we reported below.

Friends will gather on Saturday, June 25, at 5:00 at the Metropolitan Community Church of Los Angeles, 4953 Franklin Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

More details are available at this website set up expressly in Allen’s honor.

Whether you’re attending or not, you’re invited to pass along stories, photos, and remembrances, via email to allenlevymemorial@gmail.com.  If you are planning on attending, organizers ask that you RSVP to that email address to help them with planning.

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

Greetings:

We have a little more information about the death of longtime newsman ALLEN LEVY, whose passing we reported last night in an emailed update.

Allen Levy

1951-2011

Allen, a freelance producer for CBS Newspath, was found in an Arizona hotel room after he failed to show up for a live shot for CBS’s The Early Show yesterday.  He was on assignment covering the Arizona wildfires.  A preliminary autopsy report lists a massive heart attack as the cause of death.

Allen was 59.  He was a former ND at KTVL-TV in Medford, OR, and had also worked at stations in Dallas, Denver, Hartford, Minneapolis and Miami, where he was graduated from the University of Miami.  He’d been freelancing for the last eight years or so.  More information on his Linkedin page.

Funeral arrangements are pending.  I’ll update this website when they are finalized.

On to our regular business.

This week’s changes are all in large markets.  We have TWO new NDs and TWO new openings to share with you.  That means our always unofficial count of open ND jobs remains at 33.

We’re re-running a blind box ad for an unnamed top 75 market station.  And we have ads for an ND/anchor at a New York state startup, an EP opening at the Weather Channel, and our first ad for a helicopter pilot.  If you know of someone who’s looking for a full time chopper pilot gig, please forward them that information.

In Names in the News, a well known ND adds ‘author’ to his resume as he’s written a new book about his life in the TV business.

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

New News Director Openings:

WTXF-TV, Philadelphia, PA…in one of several moves we reported in UPDATES during the past week, KINGSLEY SMITH is headed west to become ND for another FOX o-and-o, KTTV/KCOP-TV in Los Angeles.  More on that below.  Kingsley’s been ND here since January, 2008.

Gramer

KGW-TV, Portland, OR…after 13 years as ND for this Belo-owned NBC affiliate, ROD GRAMER is headed south…and east.  He’ll be the next VP/GM for Bay News 9, the Tampa Bay area 24 hour cable news channel.  Rod earlier had been ND for Belo’s KTVB-TV in Boise, and also worked for the Idaho Statesman newspaper.  The move reunites Rod with ELLIOTT WISER, the Corporate VP for Local Programming at Brighthouse.  Elliott was the first ND for Northwest Cable News when Rod was working at sister-station KTVB.

Newly Named News Directors:

KTTV/KCOP-TV, Los Angeles, CA…as mentioned above, KINGSLEY SMITH will be the next ND for this Fox-owned duopoly.  In addition to 3+ years as ND for WTXF-TV in Philadelphia, Kingsley also served as ND for (what was then) another FOX o-and-o, KTVI-TV in St. Louis, and spent many years at FOX’s KDFW-TV in Dallas, beginning as a producer and eventually become Assistant ND.  He’s also worked in Norfolk and Tyler, TX.  In Los Angeles, he replaces JOSE RIOS who was promoted within Fox to be the company’s VP of Digital News Applications earlier this year. He’d been ND there for 19 years.

KDVR/KWGN-TV, Denver, CO…ED KOSOWSKI returns to the ND chair as he’s been named VP of News and Digital Content for this Fox/CW combined newsroom. Since 2005, Ed’s worked in a variety of EP roles for CNBC. He’s a previous ND for WHDH-TV in Boston and KGO-TV in San Franciso, and has also worked in Chicago, Washington, and Miami.  He replaces CAROLYN KANE, who left the station(s) in April after two years as ND.

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

Help Wanted Ads:

News Director, WLNE-TV, Providence, RI:

This position is a great opportunity for a highly motivated, competitive, energetic person with solid news and personnel judgement. Prior News Director experience is required.

We are in the process of fully converting the Newsroom to full HD. Experience with a Newsroom HD transition would be helpful.

Our successful candidate will be the type of leader who is a highly focused, get it done well, motivator. Someone who knows how to produce top quality newscasts filled with well written, compelling and impactful story telling.

A firm grasp of News promotion is critically important, as is a history of Web based news and social media management.

If this describes you then we should talk!

Please send – resume, news philosophy, salary history, DVD and/or Web link to:

Allen Sandubrae
VP – News
Citadel Communications Company
3903 Westown Parkway
West Des Moines IA 50266

Email: ASandubrae@myabc5.com
Phone: 515.457.9645 ext. 129

Please note: phone calls will be accepted only after initial email/mail is received.

This position will close June 30, 2011.
Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. EOE

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

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

WUTR, WPNY and WFXV in Utica, NY seeks a News Director who is aggressive, forward thinking and a creative journalist.  We are adding local news on our ABC and FOX channels in September.

This is an exciting opportunity to build a news organization from the ground up. The successful candidate will anchor, producer, hire, mentor and lead a team of skilled professionals.  Solid news judgment, great communication skills and knowledge of relevant local news content are a must.  This position will also include anchoring two newscasts a night.  5-10 years experience as a primary news anchor preferred.  Knowledge of eMedia, social media and mobile website journalism required.

Please send a DVD or web link, resume, cover letter and news philosophy to:

Stephen P. Merren
Vice President & General Manager
Nexstar Broadcasting Group
5956 Smith Hill Road
Utica, NY 13503

e-mail: smerren@nexstar.tv
**** ***** ****

Blind Box News Director Ad, Top 75 Market:

We’re looking for a dynamic person to lead our News Department. The successful candidate will have the ability to motivate and guide our staff while teaching and mentoring. Prior News Director experience is necessary. What is also necessary is the ability to grow and develop a top quality news product. You must be competitive and have an innate understanding and ability to produce compelling, topical, interesting, informative newscasts. Developing a successful working relationship with the other station Department Heads will also be vital.

This is a great opportunity for the right person. If that’s you then send out a cover letter today describing your news philosophy/vision and tell us how and why you’d be a great News Director. Also include a resume, references and recent newscast on DVD or provide a Web link:

Blind Box Ad 6/3
c/o Rick Gevers & Associates
PO Box 577
Zionsville IN 46077

If you’re sending a link to a recent newscast, you can apply via email to: NDad6/3@rickgevers.com

We’ll fill this position as soon as we find the right person!  We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Closing date June 20, 2011 or until the position is filled.

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

Director of Cross Platform Production, The Weather Channel:

The Director of Cross Platform Production is responsible for managing a team of producers to ensure timely and accurate delivery of video forecasts and stories across all The Weather Channel platforms and outside partners. This manager will oversee daily editorial process and will monitor and react appropriately to the video numbers supplied by Omniture to work quickly to optimize video consumption. This person will work closely with all producers/product managers across all platforms of TWC to ensure each gets the needed content and will advocate placement of video across platforms, on new technology, and in any form that best showcases our content to consumers.

Specific Responsibilities:
· Develop strategies to grow video consumption on all platforms as well as cross platform promotion.
· Perform competitive and marketplace analyses to assess trends and develop innovative and dynamic strategies surrounding video content and usage.
· Work effectively with cross-functional team (meteorologists, producers, designers, developers & product managers) to effectively deliver consistently excellent, compelling content in its most effective form to the particular platform.
· Produce multimedia content (video, audio, maps, data presentation) that aligns with programming initiatives.
· Maintain knowledge of all technologies and platforms that will put our video in the hands of viewers and users.

Required experience:
· 5 years management experience in television or web.
· Experience in television and web producing preferred.
· Must know how to write, produce, and edit for TV and interactive platforms.
· Thrives in a multi-team, multi-in-house customer environment.

Apply to:

Jennifer Rigby
Multi-Media Content Director
The Weather Channel
300 Interstate North Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30339

or via email to: jrigby@weather.com
**** ***** ****

Helicopter Pilot, KWTV, Oklahoma City, OK:

KWTV, the CBS affiliate in Oklahoma City, is in need of an experienced helicopter pilot. We own and operate a Bell 407, fully HD, state-of-the art helicopter.

We would like to find someone with experience flying for TV stations. This is a full-time position. We will gladly pay for additional training needed to fly a Bell 407.

KWTV is owned by Griffin Communications, a family owned media company based right here in OKC. If you aren’t familiar with OKC, it is a progressive city in the middle of a 30 year development strategy. We have one of the best cost of living rates in the country. And we have the NBA’s Thunder.

You can apply directly to News Director Todd Spessard: todd.spessard@news9.net.

Also, if you know of pilots who may have lost flight time due to budget cuts, consolidation, etc., please forward this information to them.

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

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

Other News Management Openings:

Assistant News Director:

WFLD-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 4/22/11)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 4/15/11)
KSDK-TV, St. Louis, MO (relisted 5/8/11)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/1/11)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (relisted this week)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 4/15/11)
KXAN-TV, Austin, TX (listed 5/8/11)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 5/27/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (listed 3/31/11)
WBRZ-TV, Baton Rouge, LA (new listing this week)

Executive News Producer:

The Weather Channel, Atlanta, GA (Weekend EP, listed 5/13/11)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 3/31/11)
KTVK-TV, Phoenix, AZ (AM EP, listed 5/8/11)
Northwest Cable News, Seattle, WA (AM & PM EP, listing revised 5/27/11)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted 6/3/11)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, listed 3/25/11)
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 4/9/11)
WXIN-TV, Indianapolis, IN  (relisted 4/15/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 openings, AM & afternoon, listing revised 4/15/11)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (Special Projects EP, relisted 4/15/11)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (AM EP, relisted 4/15/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (AM EP, listed 3/31/11)
WNWO-TV, Toledo, OH (AM EP, listed 6/3/11)
KRXI-TV, Reno, NV (PM EP, listed 5/20/11)

Special Projects Producer:

WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL (listed 5/20/11)
WSVN-TV, Miami, FL (relisted 4/15/11)

Managing Editor:

WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 4/15/11)

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

Name in the News:

Cohen

You can add ‘author’ to the resume of longtime newsman STEVE COHEN.  Steve, who’s currently ND for KUSI-TV in San Diego, has written “The Newslife: From Arkansas to Aruba”. It chronicles the history of local news through the prism of Steve’s life running newsrooms from San Diego to Los Angeles to New York City. It also explores the rise of our current generation of broadcasters from Bill O’Reilly to Brian Williams, and many others that Steve’s met along the way. It’s a cautionary tale of what happens to a life lived inside America’s newsrooms.   You can check it out (and order your copy) from Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble.

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

The Full List:

To the best of my knowledge, here is the list of stations with open news director jobs, as of Friday, June 10, 2011.

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

KMEX-TV 5999 Center Dr.                                  Los Angeles CA 90045  **
WTXF-TV 330 Market Street                      Philadelphia PA 19106
KARE-TV 8811 Olson Memorial Hwy.          Minneapolis MN 55427
KGW-TV 1501 SW Jefferson St.                Portland OR 97201
KOIN-TV   222 SW Columbia St.                      Portland OR 97201
WTNH/WCTX-TV 8 Elm St.                              New Haven CT 06510
WAVY-TV 300 Wavy St.                                     Portsmouth VA 23705
WPMI-TV 661 Azalea Road                              Mobile AL 36609
KMSB-TV     1855 N. 6th Ave.                             Tucson AZ 85705
WTOL-TV 730 N. Summit St.                          Toledo OH 43604
WMTW-TV 99 Danville Corner Road           Portland ME 04210
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St.                               Syracuse NY 13057
WIS-TV 1111 Bull St.                                          Columbia SC 29201
KWWL-TV 500 East Fourth St.                     Waterloo IA 50703
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway                        Brownsville TX 78521
WJCL/WTGS-TV 10001 Abercorn St.           Savannah GA 31406
KVAL-TV   4575 Blanton Road                          Eugene OR 97405
KBAK/KBFX 1901 Westwind Dr.                   Bakersfield CA 93301
WREX-TV 10322 W. Auburn Rd.                     Rockford IL 61105
WAOW-TV 1908 Grand Ave.                           Wausau WI 54403
WSAW-TV 1114 Grand Ave.                               Wausau WI 54403
KTKA-TV   2121 SW Chelsea Dr.                       Topeka KS 66614
WFXL-TV 1211 N. Slappey Blvd.                       Albany GA 31707
WOAY-TV Rte. 16 South                                     Oak Hill WV 25901
KIMT-TV 112 N. Pennsylvania Ave.                 Mason City IA 50401
WJHG-TV 8195 Front Beach Rd.                      Panama City Beach FL 32407
WCJB-TV 6220 NW 43rd St.                              Gainesville FL 32653
KSWT-TV 1301 Third Ave.                                  Yuma AZ 85364
KYMA-TV 1385 S. Pacific Ave.                          Yuma AZ 85365
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV-TV 5956 Smith Hill Rd.  Utica NY 13502
WLUC-TV 177 US Highway 41 East                Negaunee MI 49866
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                       Laredo TX 78045
KSAN/KLST-TV 2800 Armstrong                     San Angelo TX 76903

** Spanish language station

June 3, 2011

Thursday, June 9, 2011 UPDATE:

Allen Levy

1951-2011

I’m sorry to report that longtime television newsman ALLEN LEVY died today.

Allen had a long career in our business, and had been working most recently as a producer for CBS Newspath. He was on assignment covering the Arizona wildfires, but did not appear for a live shot this morning for The Early Show. His body was found in his hotel room. A preliminary autopsy report indicates he died of a massive heart attack.

Allen was graduated from the University of Miami and later worked for two stations there, and, according to a memo sent to CBS staffers, also worked for stations in Hartford, Denver, Dallas, Minneapolis and Medford, OR, where he was the ND for KTVL-TV. His Linkedin page has more.

Allen was 59. He would have turned 60 in August.

I’ll include details of funeral arrangements, memorial funds, etc., in tomorrow’s newsletter if I know them by press time. If not, I’ll add them to this website when they are available.

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

Thursday, June 9, 2011 UPDATE:

A veteran large market ND heads back to a newsroom in a move announced today.

ED KOSOWSKI has been named VP/News and Digital Content for KDVR/KWGN-TV in Denver, the Fox/CW duopoly there.  He’s been at CNBC in a variety of management roles since 2005.  He previously had been ND for WHDH-TV in Boston and KGO-TV in San Francisco.  Ed’s also worked in Washington, Miami, and Chicago.

In Denver, he replaces CAROLYN KANE who left the duopoly in April after two years as ND.

More on this move, and all the week’s changes, in the next edition of our full newsletter.

Monday, June 6, 2011 UPDATE:

There are two large market ND changes to tell you about.

KINGSLEY SMITH has been named ND for Fox’s KTTV-KCOP-TV in Los Angeles. He’s currently the ND for another FOX o-and-o, WTXF-TV in Philadelphia, where he’s been since June, 2008.

He’d earlier been ND for (what was then) yet another FOX o-and-o, KTVI-TV in St. Louis for about 18 months, and spent much of his career at Fox’s KDFW-TV in Dallas, where he began as a producer and eventually became Assistant ND.   He’s also worked in Norfolk and Tyler, TX.

In Los Angeles, he replaces JOSE RIOS who was promoted within Fox to be the company’s VP of Digital News Applications earlier this year. He’d been ND there for 19 years.

Gramer

Meanwhile, ROD GRAMER has been named VP/GM of BAY NEWS 9, the 24 hour cable news operation serving the Tampa area.  Rod is leaving KGW-TV in Portland, where he’s been ND since 1998.  He spent ten years before that as ND for the company’s KTVB-TV in Boise, ID and earlier worked for the Idaho Statesman newspaper.

At Bay News 9, he replaces TERRY DOLAN who left earlier this year.

More on these moves and all the week’s changes in our full newsletter later this week.

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

Greetings:

The rating book has ended and the ND changes have started.  We have FOUR new NDs to share with you and FOUR new ND openings.

That brings our list of open ND jobs to 33.

We’re have paid ads for two of those listed ND jobs…a new one for an ND/anchor at a startup in New York state, and a repeat of last week’s ad for an Ohio ND job.  We also have a new blind box ad for an ND job in a top 75 market.  There’s also an ad for a management spot at the Weather Channel, and our first-ever help wanted ad for a full-time helicopter pilot.  (YOU may not be a helicopter pilot…but you might know one who is, and might be looking for a good job.  Make a friend and pass ’em the information in the ad below.)

There’s just one Name in the News, and just one addition to our list of Other News Management Openings.

New News Director Openings:

KWWL-TV, Waterloo, IA…NATE LEDING is leaving at the end of the month.  He was promoted to the ND job just over two years ago.  He had been the EP for this Quincy Newspaper owned NBC affiliate.  Nate’s a former ND in Alexandria, MN, and has worked in Minneapolis, Phoenix, Columbia, SC, and for ESPN and Conus Communications.

KBAK/KBFX-TV, Bakersfield, CA…DOUG BARDEN is leaving this Fisher Broadcasting owned CBS/FOX duopoly to become ND at KSBY-TV in San Luis Obispo, CA (more on that below).  Doug’s been ND here for about 2 1/2 years.

WAOW-TV, Wausau, WI…this Quincy Newspaper owned ABC affiliate is looking for an ND.  KATHY REYNOLDS has been overseeing the newsroom as Assistant News Director, but she’s headed to WEYI-TV in Flint, MI, as ND (more on that below).

KVEO-TV, Brownsville, TX…congratulations to JON McCALL who is retiring (again, he tells me!) after about nine months as ND here. He plans to stay in the area. Jon’s a former ND in Decatur, IL, Bangor, ME, and Harrisburg, PA. KVEO is an NBC affiliate and is owned by Communications Corporation of America.

Newly Named News Directors:

WJRT-TV, Flint, MI…JAYNE HODAK has been promoted to News Director for this SJL Broadcasting owned ABC affiliate.  She has been the Assistant ND here, and replaces longtime WJRT ND JIM BLEICHER. Bleicher left the station in late March, shortly after SJL took over ownership of the station from ABC, from whom SJL had bought the station in 1995.  Jayne’s a former EP in Raleigh, and has also worked in Lansing and Detroit, where her father JERRY HODAK spent many years as the chief meteorologist for WXYZ-TV.

Reynolds

WEYI-TV, Flint, MI…as noted above, KATHY REYNOLDS has been named ND for this Barrington Broadcasting owned NBC affiliate.  Kathy has been running the newsroom at WAOW-TV in Wausaw, WI, most recently.  Earlier she was an investigative reporter and Special Projects Manager for WGGB-TV in Springfield, MA.  She’s also worked in Grand Rapids, MI, Burlington, Fargo, and Elmira, NY.  She replaces JEFF REINARZ who continues as Media Operations Manager here, overseeing promotion and operations.  He’s been doing double duty as ND since January, 2009.

Barden

KSBY-TV, San Luis Obispo, CA…in another move mentioned above, DOUG BARDEN has been named ND here.  Doug’s been the ND for KBAK/KBFX-TV in Bakersfield, CA, for more than two years.  He’s also been an ND in Cheyenne, WY, and an assistant ND in Salt Lake City and also worked in Reno.  At KSBY, he replaces DAVE SCHERMER who served almost five years as ND for this Cordillera Broadcasting owned NBC affiliate before announcing his departure in April.

KFBB-TV, Great Falls, MT…DAN CLOUSE will be the next ND (and 5:00 & 6:00 anchor) for this Max Media owned ABC affiliate.  Dan’s a former ND in Butte, MT, and has also worked in Lufkin, TX, Omaha, and La Crosse, WI.  For the last four years, he’s been working as a broadcasting instructor at Western Illinois University in Macomb, IL.  He replaces CHRIS GROGAN, who left the station in July, 2010, to become an ND In Grand Junction, CO.

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

Help Wanted Ads:

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

WUTR, WPNY and WFXV in Utica, NY seeks a News Director who is aggressive, forward thinking and a creative journalist.  We are adding local news on our ABC and FOX channels in September.

This is an exciting opportunity to build a news organization from the ground up. The successful candidate will anchor, producer, hire, mentor and lead a team of skilled professionals.  Solid news judgment, great communication skills and knowledge of relevant local news content are a must.  This position will also include anchoring two newscasts a night.  5-10 years experience as a primary news anchor preferred.  Knowledge of eMedia, social media and mobile website journalism required.

Please send a DVD or web link, resume, cover letter and news philosophy to:

Stephen P. Merren
Vice President & General Manager
Nexstar Broadcasting Group
5956 Smith Hill Road
Utica, NY 13503

e-mail: smerren@nexstar.tv
**** ***** ****

Blind Box News Director Ad, Top 75 Market:

We’re looking for a dynamic person to lead our News Department. The successful candidate will have the ability to motivate and guide our staff while teaching and mentoring. Prior News Director experience is necessary. What is also necessary is the ability to grow and develop a top quality news product. You must be competitive and have an innate understanding and ability to produce compelling, topical, interesting, informative newscasts. Developing a successful working relationship with the other station Department Heads will also be vital.

This is a great opportunity for the right person. If that’s you then send out a cover letter today describing your news philosophy/vision and tell us how and why you’d be a great News Director. Also include a resume, references and recent newscast on DVD or provide a Web link:

Blind Box Ad 6/3
c/o Rick Gevers & Associates
PO Box 577
Zionsville IN 46077

If you’re sending a link to a recent newscast, you can apply via email to: NDad6/3@rickgevers.com

We’ll fill this position as soon as we find the right person!  We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Closing date June 20, 2011 or until the position is filled.

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

Director of Cross Platform Production, The Weather Channel:

The Director of Cross Platform Production is responsible for managing a team of producers to ensure timely and accurate delivery of video forecasts and stories across all The Weather Channel platforms and outside partners. This manager will oversee daily editorial process and will monitor and react appropriately to the video numbers supplied by Omniture to work quickly to optimize video consumption. This person will work closely with all producers/product managers across all platforms of TWC to ensure each gets the needed content and will advocate placement of video across platforms, on new technology, and in any form that best showcases our content to consumers.

Specific Responsibilities:
· Develop strategies to grow video consumption on all platforms as well as cross platform promotion.
· Perform competitive and marketplace analyses to assess trends and develop innovative and dynamic strategies surrounding video content and usage.
· Work effectively with cross-functional team (meteorologists, producers, designers, developers & product managers) to effectively deliver consistently excellent, compelling content in its most effective form to the particular platform.
· Produce multimedia content (video, audio, maps, data presentation) that aligns with programming initiatives.
· Maintain knowledge of all technologies and platforms that will put our video in the hands of viewers and users.

Required experience:
· 5 years management experience in television or web.
· Experience in television and web producing preferred.
· Must know how to write, produce, and edit for TV and interactive platforms.
· Thrives in a multi-team, multi-in-house customer environment.

Apply to:

Jennifer Rigby
Multi-Media Content Director
The Weather Channel
300 Interstate North Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30339

or via email to: jrigby@weather.com
**** ***** ****

Helicopter Pilot, KWTV, Oklahoma City, OK:

KWTV, the CBS affiliate in Oklahoma City, is in need of an experienced helicopter pilot. We own and operate a Bell 407, fully HD, state-of-the art helicopter.

We would like to find someone with experience flying for TV stations. This is a full-time position. We will gladly pay for additional training needed to fly a Bell 407.

KWTV is owned by Griffin Communications, a family owned media company based right here in OKC. If you aren’t familiar with OKC, it is a progressive city in the middle of a 30 year development strategy. We have one of the best cost of living rates in the country. And we have the NBA’s Thunder.

You can apply directly to News Director Todd Spessard: todd.spessard@news9.net.

Also, if you know of pilots who may have lost flight time due to budget cuts, consolidation, etc., please forward this information to them.

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

News Director, WTOL-TV, Toledo, OH:

WTOL-TV, Toledo’s News Leader, seeks an experienced News Director with a track record of effective team building, aggressive news coverage including demonstrable skills online and strong leadership skills.

Applicants should be prepared to discuss mobile strategies and the effective use of social media in the contemporary broadcast environment. The successful candidate will have examples of creative approaches to executing an established news brand and experience managing financial, technical and people resources. The successful candidate will be called upon to provide strategic direction for daily news coverage as well as working closely with the General Manager on long range planning, special news coverage and station projects.

The News Director leads the station’s Content Department—the largest single department in the station– and is expected to work closely with other Department Heads. Candidates should have at least two years previous News Director experience and at five years previous experience in newsroom leadership roles.

WTOL is part of Raycom Media and is a CBS Television affiliate. Send resume and a letter of introduction to Steven Ackermann, Raycom Media Regional News Director via email to SAckermann@Raycommedia.com

No phone calls. EOE.

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

Other News Management Openings:

Assistant News Director:

WFLD-TV, Chicago, IL (listed 4/22/11)
KHOU-TV, Houston, TX (listed 4/15/11)
KSDK-TV, St. Louis, MO (relisted 5/8/11)
WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 5/1/11)
WRTV, Indianapolis, IN (listed 4/22/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WISN-TV, Milwaukee, WI (relisted 4/15/11)
KXAN-TV, Austin, TX (listed 5/8/11)
WAVE-TV, Louisville, KY (listed 5/27/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (listed 3/31/11)

Executive News Producer:

The Weather Channel, Atlanta, GA (Weekend EP, listed 5/13/11)
KPHO-TV, Phoenix, AZ (relisted 3/31/11)
KTVK-TV, Phoenix, AZ (AM EP, listed 5/8/11)
Northwest Cable News, Seattle, WA (AM & PM EP, listing revised 5/27/11)
KXTV, Sacramento, CA (relisted this week)
WTAE-TV, Pittsburgh, PA (Dayside EP, listed 3/25/11)
WRAL-TV, Raleigh, NC (listed 4/9/11)
WXIN-TV, Indianapolis, IN  (relisted 4/15/11)
WVIT-TV, Hartford/New Haven, CT (relisted 4/15/11)
WCPO-TV, Cincinnati, OH (2 openings, AM & afternoon, listing revised 4/15/11)
WTMJ-TV, Milwaukee, WI (Special Projects EP, relisted 4/15/11)
WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, NC (AM EP, relisted 4/15/11)
KVOA-TV, Tucson, AZ (AM EP, listed 3/31/11)
WNWO-TV, Toledo, OH (AM EP, new listing this week)
KRXI-TV, Reno, NV (PM EP, listed 5/20/11)

Special Projects Producer:

WTSP-TV, Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL (listed 5/20/11)
WSVN-TV, Miami, FL (relisted 4/15/11)

Managing Editor:

WFTS-TV, Tampa, FL (listed 4/15/11)

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

Name in the News:

PATRICK O’CONNOR joins WBRC-TV in Birmingham as EP for the early evening and late newscasts.  Patrick currently works at Bay News 9 as EP and Managing Editor of the weekend news.  He’s also worked in Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Providence, and Little Rock.

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

The Full List:

To the best of my knowledge, here is the list of stations with open news director jobs, as of Friday, June 3, 2011.

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

KMEX-TV 5999 Center Dr.                                  Los Angeles CA 90045  **
KTTV/KCOP-TV 1999 S. Bundy Dr.                Los Angeles CA 90025
KARE-TV 8811 Olson Memorial Hwy.          Minneapolis MN 55427
KDVR/KWGN-TV 100 Speer Blvd.                 Denver CO 80203
KOIN-TV   222 SW Columbia St.                      Portland OR 97201
WTNH/WCTX-TV 8 Elm St.                              New Haven CT 06510
WAVY-TV 300 Wavy St.                                     Portsmouth VA 23705
WPMI-TV 661 Azalea Road                              Mobile AL 36609
KMSB-TV     1855 N. 6th Ave.                             Tucson AZ 85705
WTOL-TV 730 N. Summit St.                          Toledo OH 43604
WMTW-TV 99 Danville Corner Road           Portland ME 04210
WSYR-TV 5904 Bridge St.                               Syracuse NY 13057
WIS-TV 1111 Bull St.                                          Columbia SC 29201
KWWL-TV 500 East Fourth St.                   Waterloo IA 50703
KVEO-TV 394 N. Expressway                      Brownsville TX 78521
WJCL/WTGS-TV 10001 Abercorn St.           Savannah GA 31406
KVAL-TV   4575 Blanton Road                          Eugene OR 97405
KBAK/KBFX 1901 Westwind Dr.                 Bakersfield CA 93301
WREX-TV 10322 W. Auburn Rd.                     Rockford IL 61105
WAOW-TV 1908 Grand Ave.                         Wausau WI 54403
WSAW-TV 1114 Grand Ave.                               Wausau WI 54403
KTKA-TV   2121 SW Chelsea Dr.                       Topeka KS 66614
WFXL-TV 1211 N. Slappey Blvd.                       Albany GA 31707
WOAY-TV Rte. 16 South                                     Oak Hill WV 25901
KIMT-TV 112 N. Pennsylvania Ave.                 Mason City IA 50401
WJHG-TV 8195 Front Beach Rd.                      Panama City Beach FL 32407
WCJB-TV 6220 NW 43rd St.                              Gainesville FL 32653
KSWT-TV 1301 Third Ave.                                  Yuma AZ 85364
KYMA-TV 1385 S. Pacific Ave.                          Yuma AZ 85365
WUTR/WPNY/WFXV-TV 5956 Smith Hill Rd.  Utica NY 13502
WLUC-TV 177 US Highway 41 East                Negaunee MI 49866
KGNS-TV   120 W. Delmar Blvd.                       Laredo TX 78045
KSAN/KLST-TV 2800 Armstrong                     San Angelo TX 76903

** Spanish language station