December 1: New Local Leaders Stepping In at Gray Media-owned Stations
2024-11-18
December 1 marks a significant transition as new local leaders are set to take over the operations of Gray Media-owned broadcast television stations in Presque Isle, Maine; Hazard, Kentucky; and Topeka, Kansas. These stations have been under the leadership of dedicated individuals who have made lasting contributions to their respective communities.
Gray Media's Station Leadership Transitions
Presque Isle, Maine - WAGM-TV
In Presque Isle, Maine, WAGM-TV is saying goodbye to its long-time General Manager and Director of Sales, Kelly Landeen. She began her journey at WAGM in 1990 as an Account Executive and has since climbed the sales ranks. Over the years, she has played a crucial role in the station's success. Her extensive experience and knowledge of the local market have been invaluable. She has built strong relationships with advertisers and the community, leaving a mark that will be remembered.Nine years ago, she took on her current roles, and during this time, she has been a driving force behind the station's growth. Her leadership and dedication have not gone unnoticed. The local community will surely miss her presence and the contributions she has made.
Hazard, Kentucky - WYMT-TV
In Hazard, Kentucky, Neil Middleton is retiring as the General Manager of WYMT-TV. He has spent nearly his entire broadcast career at this station, with only two years spent elsewhere. His tenure at WYMT-TV has been marked by his commitment to excellence and his ability to connect with the local community.Since 2012, he has been in his current role, overseeing the station's operations and leading the team. His leadership has helped the station thrive and reach a wider audience. His retirement is a significant loss for the station and the community, but his legacy will live on.
Topeka, Kansas - WIBW-TV
In Topeka, Kansas, Roger Brokke is retiring as the General Manager and Director of Sales of WIBW-TV. He has spent nearly 50 years in media sales and has made his mark in the industry. His journey led him to Topeka and WIBW in 2004, where he quickly rose to prominence.In 2014, he was promoted to General Manager and Director of Sales, taking on additional responsibilities. His leadership and sales skills have been instrumental in the station's success. He has built strong relationships with advertisers and has been a key figure in the station's growth. His retirement is a bittersweet moment, as he will be leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication."The leadership and commitment to the local communities and local stations that Kelly, Neil, and Roger provided will leave a lasting impact," Gray Chief Operating Officer Sandy Breland said. "On behalf of Gray and the stations they led, I want to thank them for their service and wish them the best in their upcoming retirements." These three individuals have played vital roles in the success of their respective stations and have left an indelible mark on the local communities they serve. Their retirements mark the end of an era, but their contributions will be remembered for years to come.