New York Public Radio’s new CEO has rapidly removed several top executives in her first four months, surprising staff and raising concerns among remaining leaders.
Christy Tanner, a CBS News veteran who took over NYPR in early February, has ousted key figures including CFO and COO Thomas Reno, fundraising executive Jennifer Schell Podoll, longtime VP of communications Jennifer Houlihan Roussel, and the organization’s board liaison (dismissed after a spring argument).
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| Christy Tanner |
While it is common for new CEOs to reshape leadership teams, the pace and volume of exits have unsettled senior leaders. Two told Semafor they worry Tanner lacks a clear plan to replace those fired, and fear the moves will damage internal morale, fundraising, and talent recruitment. Those concerns were raised at an all-staff meeting earlier this year, according to three attendees.
Tanner told The New York Times in February that strengthening NYPR’s finances was an early priority. In a Friday interview with Semafor, she declined to comment on personnel decisions but said she is focused on growing the organization. NYPR plans to announce several new editorial hires next month, aimed at expanding live events and streaming.