Gray Names Jennifer Rieffer to Lead WXIX in Cincinnati

Rhea-AI Summary

Gray Television has appointed Jennifer Rieffer as the General Manager of WXIX (FOX) in Cincinnati, effective after the acquisition of Meredith Corporation’s Local Media Group on December 1, 2021. Rieffer brings 26 years of industry experience, having held various positions in sales and management at several television stations, including WDKY and WSMH. This strategic move comes as Gray prepares to enhance its market presence, becoming the second-largest television broadcaster in the U.S., serving 113 markets and reaching approximately 36% of U.S. television households.

Positive

• Jennifer Rieffer's appointment adds experienced leadership to WXIX, which may enhance station performance.
• Following the Meredith acquisition, Gray will become the second-largest television broadcaster, increasing market share.

Negative

• None.

ATLANTA, Nov. 23, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gray Television, Inc. (“Gray”) (NYSE: GTN) today named Jennifer Rieffer as the new General Manager of WXIX (FOX) in Cincinnati, Ohio (DMA 35).

Jennifer is a 26-year veteran of the television industry, having started her career in Lexington, Kentucky, at the local FOX affiliate WDKY in 1995.  She began in the traffic department, then moved into the sales department as an account executive before becoming the station’s sales promotion manager. She also worked as an account executive in television stations in the Columbus, Georgia, and Kansas City, Missouri, markets. She returned to WDKY as sales manager in 2006, and she became the station’s General Manager in 2018. In 2020, Sinclair promoted her to run its Flint, Michigan, FOX affiliate, WSMH, which also provides shared services to the local NBC affiliate.

Jennifer is a Kentucky native and graduate of Morehead State University.  She and her family are excited to join the community in Cincinnati.

Jennifer will succeed Debbie Bush, who Gray has named as the new General Manager of KPHO (CBS) and KTVK (3TV) in Phoenix, Arizona (DMA 12). Both appointments are effective upon the closing of Gray’s acquisition of Meredith Corporation’s Local Media Group, which is expected to occur on December 1, 2021.

About Gray Television:

Gray Television, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States.  Upon its anticipated acquisition of the television stations of Meredith Corporation, Gray will become the nation’s second largest television broadcaster, with television stations serving 113 markets that reach approximately 36 percent of US television households.  The pro forma portfolio includes 79 markets with the top-rated television station and 101 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station according to Comscore’s audience measurement data.  Gray also owns video program production, marketing, and digital businesses including Raycom Sports, Tupelo Honey, and RTM Studios, the producer of PowerNation programs and content and is the majority owner of Swirl Films.

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• Jennifer Rieffer

FAQ

Who is the new General Manager of WXIX (FOX)?

Jennifer Rieffer has been appointed as the new General Manager of WXIX (FOX) in Cincinnati.

When will Jennifer Rieffer start her role as General Manager of WXIX?

Her appointment is effective upon the closing of Gray's acquisition of Meredith Corporation's Local Media Group, expected on December 1, 2021.

What position did Debbie Bush hold before being appointed General Manager of KPHO and KTVK?

Debbie Bush was the General Manager of WXIX before her new appointment in Phoenix.

How will Gray's acquisition of Meredith Corporation affect its market position?

Gray will become the nation's second-largest television broadcaster, reaching approximately 36% of U.S. television households.

What is Gray Television's market reach after the acquisition of Meredith Corporation?

Gray will serve 113 markets with television stations, including many with top-rated stations.