Rob Wiseman named CEO of Classical KING

Rob Wiseman was hired as CEO of Classical KING in Seattle.

Wiseman succeeds Brenda Barnes, who has led the station since 2018 and is retiring.

“Rob is one of the most talented leaders I have encountered. He has a deep passion for classical music and the arts in the Pacific Northwest, and an exciting vision for Classical KING,” said Board President Susan Harmon in a news release. “The board and I look forward to supporting him as he assumes his new role on March 10.”

Wiseman joined the station in 2024 as chief advancement officer. He previously worked in development for the Seattle Symphony, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Pacific Science Center, the Seattle Opera, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Dallas Opera.

“After a competitive search and interviews with outstanding candidates, Rob’s vision and strategic approach stood out,” said search committee Chair Jim Duncan. “He is a proven leader who has helped deepen the trust and partnership of Classical KING’s donors and listeners, strengthening the organization at a pivotal moment and positioning it well for the future.”

“In my time at Classical KING, I have heard again and again how deeply our music matters to our listeners,” Wiseman said. “I’m excited to champion the outstanding programming they love and to invite even more listeners to discover the joy of classical music.”

Before leading Classical KING, Barnes worked for two decades as president of the University of Southern California Radio Group, which owns and manages classical stations KUSC in Los Angeles and KDFC in San Francisco. She was also president of WGUC, the classical music station in Cincinnati.

Barnes was board chair of Eastern Region Public Media from 1995–97, served on the board for what is now Greater Public from 1995–99, and was on the NPR board of directors from 1997–2001.