Longtime Southwest Florida television executive Darrel Lieze-Adams has been elevated to the role of president and general manager at NBC-affiliated WBBH-TV and ABC-affiliated WZVN-TV, based in Fort Myers and Naples. This significant career advancement comes nearly three decades after he first joined the station.
Darrel Lieze-Adams has been a cornerstone at the TV news stations in Southwest Florida since 1997, playing a pivotal role in their growth and stability. His promotion was publicly announced by Hearst Television, which acquired WBBH in 2023. The organization’s president, Michael J. Hayes, highlighted Lieze-Adams’ deep connection with the region, stating that his leadership has been vital during times of crisis, especially in managing the impact of severe weather events.
In his previous roles, Lieze-Adams has shown exceptional capability in enhancing news operations. He spearheaded the expansion of the number of newscasts and managed innovative changes to the WZVN/ABC7 studio, showcasing his forward-thinking approach. His career at the station began after transitioning from Hubbard Broadcasting’s KSTP-TV in Minneapolis-St. Paul, where he had built a strong resume culminating in the position of senior executive producer.
Alongside his responsibilities as a news director, he took on additional roles in 2019, overseeing news, digital, marketing, and production. His management acumen led to his appointment as vice president and station manager in 2021. Each role has seen him leverage his strategic insights to foster growth and innovation at the stations.
Hearst Television, a significant player in the media landscape with operations in 39 states, recognized the value of Lieze-Adams’ expertise. His new leadership role signifies a continued commitment to a robust presence in the Gulf Coast media market, promising sustained quality and reliability for viewers.
Darrel Lieze-Adams’ promotion to president and general manager reflects not only his long-lasting dedication to the Southwest Florida TV stations but also the trust placed in him by Hearst Television. His leadership is expected to navigate both WBBH-TV and WZVN-TV toward continued success and innovation.
Source: BusinessObserverFL
