CBS Atlanta Launches with New Leadership Team, Signaling ​a Renewed Focus ⁣on Local Journalism

CBS Stations‍ is poised to reshape ‍the Atlanta‍ media landscape⁢ with the ⁤launch ‌of CBS Atlanta, transitioning network programming to WUPA Channel 69 beginning August 16th. This move isn’t simply a channel shift; it represents a significant investment in local⁢ news and community ⁤engagement, backed by​ a newly appointed⁤ senior leadership team. This ​article provides a⁢ extensive overview ‍of ⁤the key personnel driving this transformation and what it means for viewers and the Atlanta market.

A New Era for ⁣WUPA: From Autonomous Station to CBS atlanta

For decades, WUPA (Channel 69) operated as an​ independent station, serving Atlanta with a ‌diverse range of programming.Now, under the CBS Atlanta banner, ⁢the station will deliver the full breadth ⁣of CBS’s entertainment, news, and sports content. This transition marks a ⁣strategic expansion for‍ CBS, strengthening it’s ‌presence in a key metropolitan area. The launch of a dedicated news operation in September further underscores CBS’s​ commitment to providing localized, relevant data to the Atlanta⁤ community.

Meet the Leadership Team Driving the Change

The success of CBS Atlanta hinges on the expertise and local knowledge ⁢of its leadership. CBS has assembled⁤ a team with deep roots in the Atlanta market and a proven track record ‌in broadcast media.

Tone Canedo: President and General Manager

At the helm of CBS Atlanta is tone Canedo,⁣ appointed as President and General Manager. Canedo isn’t new to WUPA; ‌he’s been instrumental in leading the station as an independent ‌entity. His extensive 25+ years of experience in the Atlanta broadcast market provides invaluable insight into the ⁣local media landscape. Notably, Canedo will also continue to ‌oversee CBS’s independent​ stations in Tampa and Seattle, demonstrating CBS’s confidence in ⁣his multi-market leadership capabilities.He reports directly to Jennifer Mitchell, President of CBS Stations and CBS News and Stations Digital.

Shawn Hoder: Vice President and News Director

Shawn​ Hoder‌ joins CBS Atlanta as Vice President and News Director, bringing a wealth⁤ of experience from CBS Pittsburgh (KDKA-TV & KDKA+). Hoder’s arrival on August 18th signals the imminent launch of the station’s news division. His career spans ‍multiple markets,including a seven-year stint at WXIA in Atlanta,as ‍well as leadership roles in Orlando,Seattle,washington ⁣D.C., Columbus, and Tampa. This broad experience positions him to build a robust⁢ and credible news operation tailored to the needs of Atlanta viewers.He will report‌ to Canedo.

Barbara Roeder: Vice President of Sales

Rounding out the senior leadership team is Barbara Roeder, appointed as Vice President of Sales.Roeder returns to CBS after a accomplished tenure ‍as Director of Sales for FanDuel Sports Network,where she spearheaded multi-platform‌ sponsorship sales for prominent Atlanta sports teams – the Braves and the Hawks. ⁣Her previous 15-year association with⁢ WUPA, combined with nearly⁣ 30 years in the Atlanta ⁣media market, provides ‌a deep understanding of local advertising dynamics and client relationships. She will ‍also begin her role on ‌August 18th, reporting to Canedo.

The Strategic Vision: Local Journalism and ‍Community Connection

Jennifer Mitchell, President of CBS Stations and CBS News and ⁢Stations Digital, ‍emphasized that the launch of CBS Atlanta is a “significant investment in⁣ local journalism and community connection.” This statement highlights the core principle guiding the ‍station’s advancement: a commitment to serving ⁤the Atlanta community with relevant, trustworthy news and content. ​

Canedo echoed this sentiment, stating‍ that Hoder’s editorial leadership and Roeder’s sales expertise are “exactly what we need to⁤ jumpstart this process as we build a station that’s responsive to⁣ our viewers and rooted in the community.” This collaborative approach⁣ suggests ⁣a focus on building a station‌ that not only delivers high-quality programming but also actively⁢ engages with and reflects the diverse voices of ‍Atlanta.

What to Expect from CBS atlanta

The launch of CBS Atlanta⁢ promises a revitalized media‍ presence in the city. Viewers can anticipate:

Expanded CBS Programming: ​ Access to the full range of CBS entertainment, news (including CBS Evening News), and sports programming.
Local News Coverage: A ​dedicated local news operation‌ launching in September, providing in-depth reporting on issues affecting the Atlanta community.
Community Engagement: A commitment to building relationships with local organizations and residents,ensuring the station remains responsive to the needs of the community.
Strategic ‍Advertising Opportunities: Roeder’s expertise will unlock new advertising opportunities for local businesses, leveraging the⁣ reach of the CBS network.

The Future of Local Broadcast ⁢in Atlanta and Beyond

The launch of CBS Atlanta is indicative of a broader trend within the broadcast industry:⁤ a renewed emphasis on local news and community engagement.As audiences increasingly turn to digital ⁣platforms for ‌information, local⁣ stations⁣ are recognizing