Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Professional Development
Additional Information
Timeline
Generic

KATHERINE WIDEMAN

Richmond Hill,GA

Summary

Versatile communications and journalistic expert with over 20 years of experience. That experience lies with implementing communication methods to include, multi-platform storytelling, content strategy, writing, web publishing, blog crafting, and social media engagement. Highly skilled at reaching large and diverse audiences. Excellent at strategic research in multiple topics including, community growth, economic development, elections as well as municipal, state and federal processes. Seasoned thought leader and public speaker, that thrives as a teacher and collaborator in facilitating effective information communication strategies for all skill levels, including executive. Eager for an opportunity to move into a role that will assist in providing communication support for a local community on the government level as well as assist with crisis communications to assist the community in understanding relevant decision making and timelines as decided by appointed and elected leaders. Assist local government officials is positive citizen-engagement through various communication methods, especially through social-media channels.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

NEWS DIRECTOR

WSAV
09.2022 - Current
  • Oversaw development of over 40+ hours of live news each week in 85th largest TV market reaching more than 350,000 households daily.
  • Championed digital-first approach to news gathering, embracing emerging technologies for enhanced story delivery methods.
  • Boosted social media presence by focusing on shareable content and interactive features that drove viewer engagement.
  • Enhanced news coverage quality by implementing innovative storytelling techniques and multimedia platforms.
  • Increased audience engagement by developing dynamic content strategies tailored to specific target demographics.
  • Implemented comprehensive analytics tracking systems to monitor audience preferences and inform editorial decisions.
  • Maintained a high level of journalistic integrity through rigorous fact-checking procedures and adherence to ethical standards.
  • Navigated sensitive subject matter with tact, delivering balanced reporting that fostered informed public discourse.
  • Adapted to rapidly changing news environments by effectively managing resources and staff during breaking news situations.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory guidelines and industry best practices in all newsroom operations, maintaining a reputation for excellence.
  • Participated in editorial meetings to discuss story ideas and content.
  • Assigned stories, delegated work and edited pieces.
  • Researched and analyzed newsworthy events, trends and issues.
  • Fact-checked breaking news headlines by performing background research.
  • Planned and conducted research and pitched long-form stories to promote investigative news topics.
  • Aligned editorial calendar with marketing initiatives to maximize promotional opportunities for station programs and events.
  • Oversaw the recruitment and training of new talent, ensuring a strong team of skilled journalists and producers.
  • Mentored junior staff members, fostering professional growth and improving overall team performance.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.
  • Fostered a collaborative work environment by encouraging open communication among team members from various departments.
  • Managed budget allocations for news department operations, optimizing resource utilization while maintaining high-quality standards.

ASST. NEWS DIRECTOR

WJBF
02.2012 - 09.2022
  • Collaborated closely with News Director to develop long-term strategies for continued success in the competitive media landscape for more than 40 hours of live news a week.
  • Maximized use of social media channels to promote brand awareness, increase website traffic, and engage audiences in real-time conversations about current events.
  • Improved employee retention rates by creating a supportive work environment that encouraged collaboration and open communication.
  • Boosted online audience engagement by collaborating with digital team to create compelling multimedia content.
  • Created tactics and strategies to increase customer visits to social media platforms.
  • Continuously monitored analytics data to identify trends, adjust strategies accordingly, and drive measurable results in audience growth.
  • Implemented innovative storytelling techniques that set the station apart from competitors in the market.
  • Reviewed daily newscasts to drive quality control and brand touchpoints.
  • Elevated visual storytelling quality by providing ongoing coaching for photographers and video editors on best practices techniques.
  • Wrote copy and edited scripts for on air and digital.
  • Oversaw staff schedules and assignments to handle programming demands.

OPERATIONS MANAGER

MEDIA GENERAL
02.2012 - 09.2022
  • Daily staffing manager, Oversight of all fleet vehicles, Oversight of all equipment
  • Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
  • Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
  • Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
  • Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
  • Established positive and effective communication among unit staff and organization leadership, reducing miscommunications, and missed deadlines.
  • Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
  • Handled staff training initiatives aimed at upskilling the workforce to meet dynamic industry demands.
  • Led successful change initiatives, ensuring seamless transitions during organizational restructuring efforts.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.

Education

BS, Communication Arts - Broadcast Journalism

Georgia Southern University
Statesboro
06.1995

Skills

  • Content Development
  • Social Media Strategy
  • Audience Engagement
  • Press Release Writing
  • Public Speaking
  • Media training
  • Copy Editing
  • News analysis
  • Media law knowledge
  • First Amendment rights
  • Team building and leadership
  • Critical Thinking

Professional Development

  • 2022 Emmy Award: "Little Boy Lost: The Quinton Simon Investigation
  • 2022 Best Investigative Journalism Nomination: Southeastern Emmy Awards
  • Best Investigative Journalism Awards: Georgia Assoc. of Broadcasters and Associated Press
  • Best Feature Reporting: Georgia Assoc. of Broadcasters and Associated Press
  • Best Website: Georgia Assoc. of Broadcasters and Associated Press
  • 2022 Georgia Senate Debate Team & Post debate analysis team
  • Kneeland Center for Journalism & Ethics: Fellow
  • Multi-Media Advisory Board: Georgia Southern University
  • "MMJ for a Day" Midterm Exam Weekend Creator & Leader: Georgia Southern University
  • Youth Leadership Columbia County: Steering Committee
  • Leadership Columbia County: Member
  • Marketing and Evangelism Committee, St. Paul's Episcopal Church

Additional Information


Carter Infinger

Chairman, Bryan Co. Board of Commissioners

Board Chair, Savannah JDA

carterinfinger@bryan-county.org

912-884-3311


Allison Hersh

Owner, Capricorn Communications

allison@capricorncomm.com

912-441-1285


Chris Fettes

CEO, Coastal Electric Coop.

chris.fettes@coastalelectric.com

912-271-6525


Michael McGaughey

Owner, M&T Construction

912-433-2094





Timeline

NEWS DIRECTOR

WSAV
09.2022 - Current

ASST. NEWS DIRECTOR

WJBF
02.2012 - 09.2022

OPERATIONS MANAGER

MEDIA GENERAL
02.2012 - 09.2022

BS, Communication Arts - Broadcast Journalism

Georgia Southern University

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