Hearst's News Director Expands Oversight, Driving Innovation Across Western Stations

Hearst Television has announced a significant promotion for Derek Schnell, the news director of its Sacramento stations KCRA and KQCA. Schnell will now take on the role of regional director of news, overseeing the news operations of Hearst's California and New Mexico stations. This move underscores Schnell's proven leadership and the company's commitment to driving innovation and excellence in local news coverage across its Western markets.

Empowering Innovative Journalism Across the West

Expanding News Coverage and Engagement

Under Schnell's leadership, KCRA and KQCA have significantly expanded their news coverage, adding 13 additional hours of newscasts each week. This expansion has extended to digital, social, and interactive storytelling platforms, ensuring that Hearst's Sacramento duopoly remains the market leader. Schnell has also launched daily linear and digital Spanish content initiatives, further diversifying the stations' programming and reaching underserved communities.

Driving Impactful Journalism and Earning Accolades

Schnell's commitment to journalistic excellence has resulted in numerous national and regional honors for KCRA and KQCA. His teams have produced special programming and documentary work that has sparked positive change, including changing laws in California and driving renewed investment in historically disadvantaged communities. This content has not only informed and engaged audiences but also made a tangible impact on the communities they serve.

Leveraging Technology and Innovation

As the regional director of news, Schnell will play a more active role in Hearst's groupwide news initiatives, leveraging technological advancements and innovative approaches to storytelling. His proven track record of embracing new platforms and engaging audiences through digital and social media will be invaluable in shaping the future of local news coverage across Hearst's Western markets.

Inspiring Colleagues and Driving Growth

Schnell's promotion to regional director of news is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills and his ability to inspire his colleagues. Barbara Maushard, Hearst Television's senior vice president and chief content officer, praised Schnell's "creative and innovative mind" and his commitment to journalistic excellence, noting that he has "further defined the Hearst Sacramento duopoly as the market leader."

A Seasoned Journalist with a Proven Track Record

Schnell's journey with Hearst Television has been marked by a steady rise through the ranks, from an internship at KETV Omaha to his current role as news director of KCRA and KQCA. Along the way, he has honed his skills as a producer, executive producer, and assistant news director, gaining invaluable experience that has prepared him for this new, expanded role.

Driving the Future of Local News in the West

As the regional director of news, Schnell will be responsible for shaping the future of local news coverage across Hearst's Western markets. His innovative mindset, commitment to journalistic excellence, and proven track record of success will be instrumental in ensuring that Hearst's stations continue to serve their communities with the highest standards of reporting and engagement.