Tribune Broadcasting today announced Chris Wayland has been named senior vp & general manager of WPIX-TV (PIX11) in New York. Wayland will begin his duties on May 22 and assume responsibility for the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of WPIX.
Wayland was previously vice president of group operations for Tribune Broadcasting, and will continue to report to Larry Wert, Tribune Broadcasting president.
“In a relatively short time, Chris has had a positive influence on many of our station operations and our leadership team, his overall background and style is a perfect fit to join WPIX in the lead role,” said Wert.
In his previous role, Wayland assisted with identifying station opportunities and growth strategies.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to lead the talented and hardworking team at WPIX and I am grateful to Larry Wert for giving me this opportunity. It is truly an honor for me to be able to work at New York’s Very own PIX11,” said Wayland.
Wayland succeeds Greg Easterly, who has served as interim general manager for WPIX. In June, Easterly will return full-time to his role as svp of group operations for Tribune Broadcasting.
Prior to joining Tribune, Wayland served in several executive management roles for Sunbeam Television, including evp and gm for WSVN-Miami, WHDH-Boston and WLVI-Boston overseeing strategy for the three stations. He previously served as gm and general sales manager for the stations.
Wayland, a former pro hockey player, holds a B.A. from Elmira College in New York.