TEGNA Inc., a prominent multiplatform media company and a subsidiary of Nexstar Media Group Inc. (NASDAQ: NXST), has announced the appointment of Patrick Paolini as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. This strategic move signifies a pivotal moment for TEGNA, as it seeks to strengthen its operations and enhance revenue-generating strategies amidst a rapidly evolving media landscape.

2. Extensive Industry Experience

Patrick Paolini brings with him over 30 years of extensive local broadcast management experience, having built a distinguished career in sales, marketing, and news operations. His most recent role was as Executive Vice President of Advertising Sales at FOX Television Stations, where he implemented successful ad sales strategies across the network.

Prior to this, Paolini served as the Senior Vice President and General Manager of WTTG FOX 5 and WDCA FOX 5 Plus, a duopoly based in Washington, D.C. Under his leadership, the stations achieved the top position in the market, thanks to a significant expansion of local news and lifestyle programming. His impressive track record extends back to various executive roles at leading media outlets, including WTXF FOX 29 in Philadelphia and WNYW FOX 5 in New York.

3. A Vision for Innovation and Growth

In a statement from TEGNA’s Board of Directors, they expressed confidence in Paolini's ability to lead the company through its next chapter. "Patrick is an ideal choice to lead TEGNA," they stated, highlighting his deep expertise in the broadcast television industry and his history of driving revenue growth across both linear and digital platforms.

Paolini himself expressed enthusiasm about his new role. "I am honored to be joining TEGNA,” he remarked, emphasizing his respect for the company’s brand, its commitment to local journalism, and the dedication of its employees. He reiterated TEGNA's commitment to providing exceptional service to viewers, advertisers, and communities, while also innovating across modern media platforms.

4. TEGNA's Position in the Market

TEGNA operates 64 local television stations across 51 U.S. markets and has established a significant presence in the digital realm with hundreds of websites and mobile applications. The company also manages Premion, a leading Connected TV and Over-the-Top (OTT) advertising platform. This diverse portfolio allows TEGNA to maintain a strong foothold in the competitive media landscape, particularly as audiences increasingly gravitate towards digital content consumption.

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nexstar Media Group, TEGNA operates independently, adhering to the “Hold Separate Order” issued by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California on April 17, 2026. This separation ensures that TEGNA can focus on its growth initiatives and operational strategies without direct influence from its parent company, positioning it to respond effectively to market demands.

5. Conclusion

The appointment of Patrick Paolini as CEO marks a significant shift for TEGNA Inc., with the potential to drive innovation and growth in both traditional and digital media arenas. As the company prepares to navigate the complexities of the modern media landscape, all eyes will be on Paolini to deliver on the high expectations set forth by the Board and stakeholders alike. With his extensive experience and vision, he is poised to lead TEGNA into a new era of success.

Original press release