Scripps taps Merri Hanson as VP and GM of KIVI in Boise, Idaho

Rhea-AI Summary

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) announced the promotion of Merri Hanson to vice president and general manager of KIVI, its ABC affiliate in Boise, Idaho, effective January 1, 2021. With over 25 years in the industry, Hanson previously served as station manager at KIVI and held various roles in notable companies. She replaces Ken Ritchie, who is retiring after 40 years. Scripps is also in the process of acquiring ION Media, which will solidify its position as the largest television broadcaster in the U.S., reaching 73% of U.S. households.

Positive

• Merri Hanson promoted to VP and GM of KIVI, reflects company growth.
• Hanson's extensive experience may drive KIVI's performance and community engagement.
• Scripps to become largest U.S. television broadcaster with ION Media acquisition.

Negative

• None.

CINCINNATI, Nov. 12, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) has promoted Merri Hanson to vice president and general manager of KIVI, its ABC affiliate in Boise, Idaho. Her role is effective Jan. 1, 2021.

Hanson has over 25 years of sales and broadcast experience and most recently served as station manager at KIVI. She joined the station in 2016 as a local sales manager.

"We look forward to Merri stepping into this new leadership role as she enters the next chapter in her Scripps career," said Local Media President Brian Lawlor. "Her decades of experience from journalist to business executive make her a great fit to lead KIVI as it serves the Boise community."

Prior to joining Scripps, Hanson held roles including vice president of business development with Stevenson Advertising in Seattle, regional marketing executive with Tegna, anchor and producer with KTRV in Nampa, Idaho, and general manager for KSVT in Hailey, Idaho.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the phenomenal group of people at Idaho News 6," said Hanson. "During a time when our community has been challenged due to the pandemic, I am proud of how our people have come together, worked tirelessly to keep the public informed, created opportunities for businesses and helped organizations who work with the most vulnerable in our community. Our culture is as strong as ever, and I look forward to the things we will accomplish together."

Hanson holds a bachelor of arts degree in psychology with an emphasis in business management from Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington.

She replaces Ken Ritchie, who is retiring from his role as vice president and general manager at the end of this year after a combined KIVI tenure of 40 years. During his KIVI career, Ritchie served in roles including account manager, local sales manager and director of sales before being named general manager in 2014.

About Scripps

The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is one of the nation's leading media companies, focused on creating a better-informed world through a portfolio of news, information and entertainment brands. Scripps will become the nation's largest television broadcaster, reaching 73% of U.S. television households through 108 stations in 76 markets, pending regulatory approval of its acquisition of ION Media. Committed to serving local audiences through objective journalism, Scripps operates 60 local TV stations in 42 markets. It is creating a national TV networks business that will include ION Media's entertainment programming, Newsy's straightforward headline and documentary news content and the five popular Katz broadcast networks including Bounce and Court TV. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades to the motto, "Give light and the people will find their own way."

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SOURCE The E.W. Scripps Company

FAQ

Who is the newly appointed VP and GM of KIVI for SSP?

Merri Hanson has been promoted to vice president and general manager of KIVI.

When does Merri Hanson's new role at KIVI take effect?

Her new role will be effective on January 1, 2021.

What significant change is happening in Scripps following this promotion?

Merri Hanson replaces Ken Ritchie, who is retiring after 40 years at KIVI.

How will Scripps's acquisition of ION Media impact its market position?

The acquisition will make Scripps the largest television broadcaster in the U.S., reaching 73% of households.