WBGO in Newark, N.J., has hired Steven Williams as its new CEO, the station announced Monday.
Williams will begin leading the public radio jazz station Jan. 4.
“I welcome this tremendous opportunity to continue and strengthen WBGO’s commitment to promoting the art form of jazz and ensuring diversity in both its workforce and audience,” Williams said in a press release.
He is currently director of audio production at KUOW in Seattle. Williams previously served as director of programming at WBGO.
“Steve’s experience, knowledge and contacts will invigorate WBGO as we enter our fifth decade of operation,” Karl Frederic, WBGO’s board chair, said in the release. “… Steve brings enthusiasm and capability to give WBGO an even more robust presence on the airwaves and on new media platforms that have emerged since our founding in 1979 that give us a global reach.”
Williams will replace Bob Ottenhoff, who is serving as interim CEO. Ottenhoff stepped into the interim role in January after Amy Niles resigned amid complaints of racial discrimination at the station.