The individual who presently serves as the interim General Manager for TEGNA‘s two TV stations in Western Tennessee’s largest metropolitan area is getting the role permanently.
Christopher Franklin has been named President/GM for TEGNA‘s ABC-affiliated WATN-24 and The CW sibling WLMT-30 in Memphis.
Franklin will be responsible for overseeing the stations’ operations across all platforms, as well as community outreach efforts and driving results for advertisers.
Franklin served as the stations’ Marketing Director before taking on the interim GM role at the start of this year. He’s been at TEGNA/Memphis since 2020, and has served as an officer on the ABC Network Marketing Advisory Board. Franklin is also a new member of the NATAS Midsouth Board of Governors.
“Chris brings a wide range of skills and talent to his new role in Memphis,” said Paul Trelstad, TEGNA’s SVP of Media Operations. “With a management style that is the embodiment of the stations’ ‘Solution Seekers’ ethos, Chris’ passion for Memphis and the people of Tennessee makes him the perfect person to lead WATN and WLMT into the future.”
Franklin commented, “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead and serve our TEGNA Memphis television stations. My primary focus is on recruiting, training, and developing great people while also maintaining our strong connection with the Memphis community. As my pastor wisely emphasizes, ‘There is no impact without contact!’ It’s essential to actively engage and demonstrate dedication to our entire Memphis community to foster genuine business and community relationships. I am truly looking forward to the rewarding journey that lies ahead.”
