CNBC makes promotions across business day programming

Craig Bengtson, vice president of CNBC Business News Programming, sent out the following announcement on Tuesday:

In recent months, CNBC Business Day has created a successful, reporter-focused program, “The Exchange,” and invested in new technology including augmented reality to better tell data-driven stories. Now, we are in the process of evolving the presentations of each of our dayside programs. These exciting initiatives take positive leadership, fresh ideas, and a willingness to try new things. In order to spread this growth, and those ideals, across our programming, I am pleased to announce the following:   

Prashant Patel has been named Executive Producer of “Halftime Report,” reporting to me. A 13-year CNBC veteran, and prolific idea generator, Prashant has made contributions to many dayside programs. That broad experience, in addition to his deep understanding of stocks, will be invaluable to the trader-focused show.  

Kevin Flynn has been named Executive Producer of “Fast Money,” reporting to me. In his seven years at CNBC, Kevin has made a significant impact on several programs including, most recently, “Worldwide Exchange,” where he has been the driving force behind increasing the guest count, improving the overall production, and mentoring producers. Kevin’s Senior Producer position will be posted.

Katie Kramer has been promoted to Senior Producer of “Squawk Box.” A versatile leader, Katie’s dedication to the all-important guest bookings, and detailed planning of Squawk’s high-profile remotes, including Davos, has been crucial to the program’s success.

Dave Evans has been promoted to Senior Producer of “Squawk Box.” Dave has displayed exceptional editorial skills and a steady hand in the control room. Both he and Katie will play major roles as we incorporate a new set and graphics package into the show’s presentation.    

Lauren Alperstein has been named Senior Producer on “Squawk on the Street.” A forceful voice in the control room, with a can-do approach to everything, Lauren has led the 10am hour, one of the network’s highest rated, and overseen a number of critical and successful field-based projects as an anchor producer.       

Ben Thompson has been named Senior Producer on “Squawk on the Street.” A 12-year veteran of the network, Ben has made many key contributions to the show from improving the quality of its guests to building key relationships with the White House. Ben has also helped with long-term planning of election and inauguration coverage for the network.  

Kristin Cwalinski, who has worked tirelessly on “Fast Money,” as a Senior Producer, will take her strong, market knowledge and production skills to “Power Lunch.” In her more than five years at CNBC, Kris has shown the unique ability to create actionable material that is not only easy to understand, but fun to watch. Her position on Fast will be posted. Kris will report to “Power Lunch” Executive Producer Sandy Cannold.

Marc Gilbert is moving from Supervising Producer of “Squawk on the Street” to “Closing Bell,” where he will help lead and direct a team that is currently re-imagining two of the most important hours of the trading day. Marc’s infectious enthusiasm, extensive market knowledge, and relentless drive, will be an enormous asset to the group. Marc will report to “Closing Bell” Executive Producer Lisa Villalobos.

Michael Newberg has been promoted to Senior Producer of “Closing Bell.” In his seven years here, Mike has risen quickly through the ranks from Segment to Field to Coordinating and now Senior Producer. Mike is a strong collaborator and thoughtful leader, who brings a different perspective to many story ideas.       

Heather Gaines has been promoted to Senior Producer of “Mad Money.” A powerhouse booker and talented writer, she was once an intern on the program, which celebrates its 15^th anniversary next year. 

Linda Dimyan has been promoted to Senior Line Producer on “Mad Money.” A meticulous producer with strong editorial judgment, she runs the show’s control room with efficiency and grace, and is always eager to mentor others on the team.     

 Please join me in congratulating, and supporting, all our colleagues who are taking on new challenges and responsibilities. 

Craig