Atlanta TV: Front Office Leadership Set At WUPA Channel 69

CBS has appointed three senior executives with Atlanta connections to lead its new news station on WUPA-TV (Channel 69), set to launch in September.

Tom Canedo, a 20-year WUPA veteran, will remain president and general manager, overseeing CBS’ independent stations in Tampa and Seattle, reporting to Jennifer Mitchell, president of CBS Stations and CBS News and Stations Digital. 

Shawn Hoder, currently news director at CBS’ Pittsburgh station and formerly with Atlanta’s 11 Alive (WXIA-TV), will serve as news director and vice president. 

Tom Canedo

Barbara Roeder, returning after a decade at FanDuel Sports Network and 15 years at WUPA, will be vice president of sales. Hoder and Roeder start August 18.

Following Atlanta News First (WANF) going independent after over 20 years, CBS designated WUPA as its Atlanta affiliate for national entertainment, news, and sports, plus local news. 

The station is building a newsroom from scratch, with open positions listed online. 

The live feed will be available on Paramount+.

“Launching CBS Atlanta is a major commitment to local journalism and community engagement,” Mitchell said. “Tom, Shawn, and Barbara’s experience and Atlanta ties will drive a station that delivers trusted, impactful news reflecting the community’s voice.”