Position Summary
The President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of WGTE Public Media provides visionary leadership to advance the organization's mission of serving the public through high-quality educational, cultural, and informational content. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the CEO will lead WGTE across its television, radio, multi-media, and educational platforms to further its mission of enriching lives through innovations, operational excellence, and meaningful public service.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership and Vision:
- Collaborate with the Board to develop and execute strategic plans that align with WGTE's mission and are responsive to the changing media environment.
- Develop data-driven strategies for content production and distribution that serve diverse audiences and broaden listener support.
Organizational Development and Culture:
- Ensure WGTE has the team, organizational structure, and culture to innovatively and effectively deliver mission-driven content.
- Foster a transparent, inclusive environment that encourages open communication, creativity, and collaboration.
Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy:
- Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including staff, board members, donors, community leaders, and government officials.
- Serve as the liaison to the Board of Trustees, maintaining a productive partnership and facilitating effective governance.
- Represent WGTE at local, state, and national levels, advocating for public media and engaging in policy discussions impacting the organization.
Fundraising and Financial Oversight:
- Oversee and direct all fundraising and development efforts, including membership growth, enhancement of existing revenue streams, and identification of new funding opportunities.
- Ensure the financial strength and sustainability of WGTE by maintaining sound fiscal policies and practices.
- Develop and manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Operational Excellence:
- Lead the daily operations of WGTE, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content across all platforms.
- Implement and enforce policies and procedures that improve overall operations and effectiveness.
- Evaluate the impact of strategic planning options, proposed new program implementation, and published federal, state and/or local regulatory actions on WGTE operations. Advise the Board of Trustees.
Innovation and Digital Transformation:
- Drive technology and digital innovation to expand WGTE's reach and impact.
- Develop measurable strategies for success in mobile and digital media environments, including content creation and audience engagement.
Community Engagement and Public Service:
- Develop and implement community-centered initiatives that reflect the diverse needs of WGTE's audience.
- Lead efforts to enhance WGTE's presence in the community through partnerships, outreach, and educational services.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Perform any other duties assigned by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Oversee employees across multiple departments, including but not limited to Radio, Television Services, Educational Services, Business Operations, Fundraising, and Engineering.
- Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with WGTE's policies and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, training, performance appraisals, retention, and separations.
Required Experience:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university.
- Progressive experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and managing multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated leadership experience and skills, including the ability to attract, hire, train, motivate, and retain talent.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and build consensus.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced degree in public administration, nonprofit leadership, media management, or a related field.
- Familiarity with digital content creation tools and learning management systems.
- Demonstrated success in securing and managing grants and fundraising initiatives.
- Strong public speaking and stakeholder engagement abilities.
- Demonstrated success advocating for funding and policy priorities at the local, state, or national level.
Work Environment and Physical Demands:
- This position operates in a professional office and broadcast/media production environment.
- Occasional local or regional travel may be required to attend community events, conferences, or meetings.
- Some lifting of materials and setting up events may be necessary.
Other Duties:
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.
About WGTE
WGTE Public Media is a non-profit, multi-platform public media organization serving northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Based in Toledo, WGTE provides high-quality, educational, cultural, and informational programming through its public television (PBS), public radio (NPR), and online services.
To Apply:
WGTE is being assisted in this search by Livingston Associates. For consideration, please submit a resume and a letter of introduction that describes how you will be the ideal person to lead the organization.
Date for full consideration: April 12th, 2026 Inquiries are welcome with Livingston Associates at (410) 243-1974.
Equal Employment and Nondiscrimination
WGTE offers a competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package for employees including healthcare, retirement, paid time off, dental, vision, health/wellness reimbursements, and other supplemental benefits.
It is the policy of WGTE to provide equal employment opportunity for all persons and not to discriminate in employment because of race, religion, gender, age, marital status, veteran status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or sexual orientation.
