Goli Sheikholeslami announced today she is resigning as president and chief executive officer of Chicago Public Media, the nonprofit parent company of NPR news/talk WBEZ 91.5-FM and urban alternative Vocalo, to become CEO of New York Public Radio, parent company of WNYC, starting in early October. (https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/14/business/media/new-york-public-radio-ceo.htm)
“My move to New York is bittersweet, especially when it comes to leaving the talented and dedicated team and board at Chicago Public Media,” Sheikholeslami said.
“I have been exhilarated by the deep and personal connections between public radio audiences and
their stations, particularly at WBEZ and Vocalo. I’m happy to remain in the public radio family and look forward to the continued growth and success of both of these integral public radio powerhouses.”
Sheikholeslami, 51, a former Washington Post digital executive, took on the top job at Chicago Public
Media in 2014. Under her leadership, WBEZ expanded its news and programming staff from 45 to more than 70, and forged editorial collaborations with numerous media partners.
Credited with helping transform WBEZ into Chicago’s premier broadcast and digital news organization, Sheikholeslami has been one of the most powerful women in Chicago journalism. (https://gothamist.com/2019/08/14/nypr_new_ceo_goli_sheikholeslami.php)
A transition committee of the Chicago Public Media board will begin efforts to designate an interim and permanent CEO, according to board chairman Bryan Traubert.
“While we hate to see Goli leave, we are pleased that her talent and skills will remain in the public radio system,” Traubert said in a statement. “The board has complete confidence in the foundation and leadership team Goli has built, and we anticipate a smooth period of transition.”
She starts her new job in October.
