The Mission Broadcasting-owned home of The CW Network in New York that is run by cozy shared services partner Nexstar Media Group has named its next News Director.
Ben Dobson begins his new duties at WPIX-11 on July 24.
Dobson shifts to New York after serving as News Director and Station Manager for Nexstar’s WDVM-TV and WDCW-TV in the Washington, D.C., market. There, Dobson led the development and launch of DC News Now, a multi-platform news brand Nexstar created to compete against WTTG-5, WRC-4, WJLA-4 and WUSA9. Dobson also oversaw marketing and operational functions for both Nexstar-owned stations.
“Ben brings a rare combination of editorial vision, operational discipline, and a deep understanding of how to connect with local audiences,” said Chris McDonnell, Vice President and General Manager of Nexstar’s New York operations. “His track record of building newsrooms and leading high-performing teams will be an asset as we continue to strengthen our commitment to serving New York viewers with relevant, impactful journalism.”
Dobson added that he’s honored to join the team at WPIX, “a station with a rich legacy and an important voice in New York. There is incredible opportunity to grow and innovate here, and I look forward to working with the talented journalists in this newsroom to serve New York’s communities with integrity and urgency.”
Prior to joining Nexstar, Dobson held senior leadership roles at NBCUniversal, including the role as Vice President of News in Boston, overseeing content for the recently created NBC O&O in the market as well as its Telemundo and NECN operations. Before that, Dobson served as Vice President of News at WVIT-30 in Hartford, branded as “NBC Connecticut,” following previous roles as Assistant News Director, Editorial Manager, and Managing Editor.
Dobson’s resume also includes roles at Sunbeam Television’s WHDH-7 in Boston and for FOX Television Stations.
