Key Points
- Christy Tanner, a veteran media executive and streaming industry leader, has been named President and CEO of New York Public Media, which owns WNYC and WQXR.
- Tanner brings deep digital and streaming experience to the role, including leading the launch of CBS News’ first full-time streaming news network in 2015.
- NYPM’s board chair described Tanner as a “pacesetter” for media organizations that have successfully adapted and innovated while delivering public service.
Christy Tanner, the Chair of streaming-focused Swerve Sports and a board member at radio broadcaster Audacy, is adding a new role to her list of career responsibilities: President and CEO of New York’s largest public radio network.
Starting this week, Tanner joins New York Public Media (NYPM) as the organization’s lead executive, where she will oversee WNYC (820 AM, 93.9 FM), WQXR (105.9 FM), WNYC Studios, Gothamist and other properties owned by the non-commercial media outlet.
“The opportunities for trusted media organizations such as NYPR – mission-driven providers of public service, community connection and pure joy – are boundless,” Tanner wrote in a note on social media.
“Christy is the leader NYPR needs at this moment,” said John Rose, the Chair of the Board of Trustees at NYPM. “She brings the leadership, experience, and vision to lead NYPR into an exciting and successful future. During an extraordinary career, she has distinguished herself as a pacesetter for media organizations that have successfully adapted, innovated, and grown while delivering award-winning public service. She recognizes our singular role in New York City, and the importance of reinforcing the trust we’ve earned with audiences over generations – while having the vision to advance our services, platforms, and formats to make the center of excellence that is NYPR sustainable for years to come.”
“As a longtime fan of NYPR’s magnificent work, I’m honored to join this powerhouse organization with local heart and global impact,” Tanner said on Tuesday. “I’m looking forward to serving New Yorkers and audiences everywhere in partnership with the trusted, world-class team who set the standards for audio and multiplatform excellence.”
Tanner started her career as an editor at the Associated Press and the Commercial Appeal in Tennessee before moving to other companies, including the Washington Post and CBS Interactive.
In 2015, she joined CBS News Digital, where she led the team that launched the country’s first full-time streaming news network backed by a major broadcast company. The channel, now called CBS News 24/7, has served as the foundation for similar online news feeds offered by CBS-owned stations in major markets like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Sacramento and Miami, among other places.
Tanner was part of two Pulitzer Prize-winning teams during her time at the AP and was honored by Scripps Howard and the Society of Professional Journalists during her time at the Commercial Appeal. She worked as the co-Chair of Digital Content Next, a trade organization that publishes news stories and analysis appealing to premium content organizations.
Over the past four years, Tanner has worked as the Chair of Swerve Sports, a streaming-focused network that reaches more than 30 million viewers with over 300 live events every year. Swerve has wide distribution on free streaming platforms across the country.
—
Disclosure :The author of this story has contributed to Digital Content Next, but did not work directly with Tanner.
