Media General released news of a corporate reorganization that looks simple on the surface, yet very telling on another level.
Instead of looking at its operations as three types of media – publishing, broadcasting and interactive – Media General is going to organize and manage the company by geography, with all properties in a given market reporting to a market leader, regardless of platform. . . .
Virginia/Tennessee – James A. Zimmerman. He is currently President of the Broadcast Division. In 2008, the VA/TN market had revenues of approximately $235 million.
Florida – John R. Schueler. He is currently President, Florida Communications Group. In 2008, the FL market had revenues of approximately $215 million.
Mid-South – John R. Cottingham. He is currently Senior Vice President, Broadcast Stations. The Mid-South market includes South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. In 2008, the Mid-South market had revenues of approximately $170 million.
North Carolina – James R. Conschafter. He is currently Senior Vice President, Broadcast Stations. In 2008, the NC market had revenues of approximately $105 million.
Ohio/Rhode Island – Richard E. Rogala. He is currently Vice President and General Manager, WCMH-TV Columbus, Ohio. In 2008, the OH/RI market had revenues of approximately $62 million.
I noticed the same thing the reporting website concluded:
RBR/TVBR observation: We can’t help but notice that all of the new market segments will be headed by people from the Broadcast Division.
The real question is why aren’t there any newspaper executives in this line-up? Why is broadcast leading the charge?
Or maybe the bow ties at MG are finally getting it.
Dinosaurs can’t reach for the future.
They have only one possible fate.