Tegna Names New CEO

TEGNA Inc. has appointed Patrick Paolini as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1. Paolini, a longtime Fox Television Stations executive, will oversee the company’s daily operations, revenue-generating strategies, local journalism and production, and growth initiatives. 

He will report directly to TEGNA’s Board of Directors.

The move comes after former CEO Mike Steib stepped down in March, shortly following Nexstar Media Group’s announcement of its $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA. The merger closed but remains in legal limbo due to ongoing antitrust challenges and a court order blocking full integration of TEGNA’s operations.

Patrick Paolini

Paolini brings more than 26 years of experience at Fox Television Stations. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President of Advertising Sales, where he led ad sales strategy across the Fox station group. He departed Fox last week. Prior to that role, he spent a decade as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Fox’s duopoly in Washington, D.C. (WTTG and WDCA), and held senior sales and management positions in Philadelphia and New York.

“Patrick is an ideal choice to lead TEGNA,” the company’s board said in a statement. “He brings deep expertise in the broadcast television industry with a proven track record in sales, marketing, and news operations.”

As TEGNA continues to operate autonomously amid the unresolved Nexstar merger litigation, Paolini’s leadership is expected to focus on strengthening local stations, driving revenue, and maintaining high-quality local journalism during a period of industry consolidation.