After nearly two decades of distinguished service at WCVB (Channel 5) in Boston, Russ Nelligan has been promoted to the role of Vice President of Marketing at Hearst Television. This advancement signifies a significant shift in his career trajectory, relocating him from Boston to New York City. Nelligan will continue to collaborate with Kyle Grimes, the Vice President of Hearst Television’s New England broadcast business. He succeeds Suzanne Grethen, who recently announced her retirement. Nelligan's contributions have been instrumental in maintaining WCVB's leadership in local news, community service, and industry recognition. His tenure has seen the station garner numerous accolades, including 11 regional Emmy Awards for marketing and promotional initiatives.
A Legacy of Excellence in Local Broadcasting
Nelligan's journey in broadcasting began as an intern at WICZ-TV in Binghamton, New York, while he pursued his degree at Binghamton University. Over time, he transitioned into various roles that honed his skills and deepened his expertise. At WPTZ in Burlington, Vermont, he evolved from a news photographer to promotion manager. In Baltimore, he served as assistant creative services director and later as the lead creative services director for WBAL-TV. Each position provided invaluable experience and prepared him for his pivotal role at WCVB.
At WCVB, Nelligan's influence was profound. Under his guidance, the station achieved market leadership and ratings success. His creativity, managerial acumen, and strategic execution were crucial in advancing WCVB's reputation as one of the nation's most respected commercial television stations. The station's accomplishments during his tenure include multiple regional Emmy Awards, solidifying its status as a leader in both content and marketing excellence.
Shaping the Future of Marketing Strategies
Nelligan's promotion to Vice President of Marketing marks a new phase in his career and a significant moment for Hearst Television. Michael J. Hayes, the President of Hearst Television, praised Nelligan's contributions, highlighting his role in evolving the local-TV marketing model. As he takes on this expanded role, Nelligan will focus on developing innovative marketing initiatives for the entire company. His collaboration with Suzanne Grethen has equipped him well for this transition.
In his new capacity, Nelligan aims to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor. He will leverage his extensive experience and forward-thinking approach to enhance the company's marketing strategies. Nelligan's vision for the future includes fostering innovation, promoting brand awareness, and driving market leadership across all platforms. With his proven track record and dynamic leadership, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the industry, ensuring Hearst Television remains at the forefront of media evolution.