When it comes to traditional Jazz radio stations, the NPR Member serving the Pacific Northwest’s biggest market is perhaps one of the most successful operations in North America. Soon, it will have a new leader, succeeding Joey Cohn, who announced his retirement back in April after 37 years.
David Fischer is the new President/GM for KNKX-FM in Seattle.
Fischer was previously CEO of Tacoma Arts Live for 18 years, and he will officially take over on November 18, after a brief transition period.
KNKX Board Chair Claire Grace said, “We’re delighted to welcome David after a highly competitive nationwide search led by the Valtas Group. He’s a highly-regarded and collaborative leader with a passion for serving the community. His strong business mindset, audience development initiatives, and fundraising expertise will help KNKX to continue to thrive. David has demonstrated experience taking organizations to new heights thanks to his skill and vision.”
Outgoing president Joey Cohn shared his confidence in Fischer’s leadership, saying, “I have known David for many years and found him to be a skilled and visionary leader. I appreciate the board’s thoughtful search process to find the right person.”
Fischer added, “I am so proud to be part of a station that has delivered essential public service for more than 50 years. The dual format of providing music and news is incredibly important, keeping the community informed while offering world-class jazz and blues.”
A WAY TO TRANSFORM BROADCAST MEDIA
In March 2023, a Seattle-headquartered broadcast and AV system integration company specializing in facility design, installation, and project management rebranded. With a new name, ZTransform didn’t miss a beat, with the construction of new studios and implementation of updated broadcast technology for a local radio station perhaps emblematic of what’s next for company founder Erik Utter and his team.
In 2004, Utter opened the doors to what for 19 years was known as Utter Associates. It’s worked with some of the world’s biggest technology companies, while also building out broadcast radio and television studios. As 2024 began, ZTransform gained notice for its latest project to involve an over-the-air radio brand. This time around, the task was a significant upgrade to the facilities used by Seattle’s noncommercial Jazz station, Pacific Public Media’s KNKX-FM. New studios were just part of the needs for the station — literally saved by listeners who in spring 2016 contributed funds to preserve programming that had been heard under its previous ownership as KPLU-FM.
Read the full story in RBR+TVBR’s Spring 2024 magazine by clicking here and turning to Page 31.
