(L-R) Chris Cornelius, Colin Benedict and Neal Oberg

On August 12, Morgan Murphy Media announced three strategic executive promotions in enhanced leadership roles, effective immediately. The appointments position the organization for continued growth and innovation across operational, digital and strategic initiatives. The company announced the following executive promotions:

Chris Cornelius is named Chief Operating Officer. Cornelius joined Morgan Murphy Media in 2014 as VP of Business Development and will now drive operational excellence with specific focus on revenue growth and network and distribution relationships. Cornelius is a media executive with experience in various senior broadcasting leadership roles, including as president and COO of Barrington Broadcasting from 2003 to 2013.

Cornelius also serves on the MAB Board of Directors as At-Large Director.

Colin Benedict is elevated to Chief Innovation Officer. Benedict has been with the company since 1998 in news and management roles, including the past seven years as VP of News. In this new role, Benedict will serve as a cross-functional strategist working on identifying, developing, and scaling forward-thinking ideas and solutions that position the company for future relevance and growth. He will continue with direct oversight of local stations' news and marketing efforts.

Neal Oberg is promoted to Chief Digital Officer and will continue to lead the company's digital efforts. Oberg has been with Morgan Murphy Media since 1997 in various digital leadership roles, including most recently as VP of Digital for the company. In his capacity, he drives audience and revenue growth in this critical area.

Brian Burns, President and CEO of Morgan Murphy Media, praised the appointments: "Chris, Colin and Neal's promotions recognize their exceptional contributions and position us perfectly for the challenges and opportunities ahead. These strategic appointments reflect our commitment to operational excellence, innovation and digital growth as we continue to evolve in the changing media landscape."

"These promotions represent our investment in proven leaders who understand our mission and values," Burns continued. "Each brings unique expertise that will help drive our company forward while
maintaining our commitment to serving local communities."

The three executives bring a combined total of more than 65 years of experience with Morgan Murphy Media, demonstrating the company's commitment to developing talent from within and recognizing
long-term dedication to the organization's success.  The leadership changes are effective immediately.

Morgan Murphy Media, based in Madison, Wisconsin owns and/or operates three TV stations in Michigan:  WBKB-TV (Alpena) and WJMN/WBKP/WBUP-TV (Escanaba/Calumet/Ishpeming-Marquette).  Its radio holdings in the Upper Peninsula include WCCY-AM/WHBS-FM/WOLV-FM/WHKB-FM (Houghton) and WFER-AM/WIKB-FM (Iron River).  The company also owns radio and television properties in Wisconsin, Idaho, Kansas, Texas and Washington State.