Local television broadcaster Sinclair, Inc. has appointed new leaders for station groups West Virginia and Georgia.
On Monday, Sinclair named Gary Mertins to the role of Vice President and General Manager of WCHS (Channel 8, ABC) and WVAH (Channel 11, Fox) in Charleston. Mertins most recently served as General Sales Manager of Sinclair-owned WTWC (Channel 40, NBC), WTLF (Channel 24, The CW) and WTLH (Channel 49, Fox) in Tallahassee, Florida.
Mertins joined Sinclair in 2024 after spending more than two decades in radio management. His previous experience includes 10 years with Cumulus Media, where he served as Vice President and Market Manager across several Florida markets. Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions with West Virginia Radio Corporation.
“Gary is a proven leader who brings a strong track record of building successful teams, driving results, and serving local communities,” Rob Weisbord, the Chief Operating Officer and President of Local Media at Sinclair, said in a statement on Monday. “His previous leadership experience in West Virginia gives him a unique understanding of the market and the people we serve, making him exceptionally well positioned to lead WCHS and WVAH as they continue delivering outstanding local news and service to viewers and advertisers.”
Mertins described the appointment as both a professional opportunity and a return to a state that played an important role in his career.
“Returning to West Virginia to lead the Charleston team is both a professional honor and a personal homecoming,” Mertins said. “The Mountain State has played an important role in my life and career, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve a community that means so much to me.”
Also on Monday, Sinclair appointed Sierra Horton to the role of Vice President and General Manager of WTGS (Channel 28, Fox) in Savannah and WGXA (Channel 24, Fox & ABC) in Macon.
Horton, a Savannah native, joined Sinclair in 2017 and has held several leadership roles supporting both stations. She most recently served as Station Manager.
“Sierra’s deep knowledge of the Savannah and Macon markets, combined with her commitment to our employees, clients, and communities, makes her the right leader to build on the strong foundation at these stations,” Weisbord said.
Horton said she plans to focus on workplace culture and stronger relationships with viewers, advertisers and community partners.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue growing with Sinclair and to lead the talented teams in Savannah and Macon,” Horton said in a statement. “Together, we’ll continue fostering a collaborative workplace culture where employees feel valued and empowered to succeed while strengthening the trusted relationships that connect our stations with the viewers, clients, and communities we proudly serve.”
Sinclair did not disclose when either appointment becomes effective.
