Jennifer Lyons

CBS Television Stations has announced a management restructure and a new hire at its WWJ-TV (Detroit).  Jennifer Lyons, President and General Manager at the company's WBBM-TV (Chicago) will take on an expanded role by becoming regional GM for both WBBM and WWJ-TV.  Lyons has been interim president and GM at WWJ-TV since May and will continue in both roles, according to a memo distributed July 24, 2024.

Lyons joined CBS Chicago in 2021 after serving as founding vice president of news for Nexstar Media Group’s NewsNation. Prior to that, she was news director for WGN-TV, which is also owned by Nexstar. Prior to that, she was assistant news director and executive produced blocks of the station’s newscasts.

In a memo to staff, Jennifer Mitchell, President of CBS Stations’ West Coast and Midwest Region, Mitchell wrote, "Since stepping in at the station (WWJ-TV) in May, Jennifer has laid a foundation for the future of CBS Detroit. Her vision and efforts to transform our station’s functions internally and externally are clear, and the way you all have leaned in to deliver and trust her leadership makes it clear to me that this is a union and direction that needs to continue. We have made a pledge to serve this community with news excellency and I’m confident and pleased with what I’m seeing from all of you. Let’s continue with this positive momentum and direction of our newsroom."

Kennan Oliphant

Jennifer Lyons has announced the hiring of a new VP of News at CBS Detroit.  Kennan Oliphant, most recently Senior Director of News at WXYZ-TV (Detroit) is joining the station effective August 19.  In addition to overseeing the news operations of WWJ-TV, he will also serve as Station Manager of of both WWJ-TV and WKBD-TV.

Oliphant’s prior experience includes two years as Assistant News Director at WXYZ-TV and WMYD-TV.  He’s also been Senior Manager of Broadcast for flagship Scripps property WCPO-TV (Cincinnati).  Oliphant began his career behind the scenes as a writer for WDIV--TV (Detroit) before becoming an on-air reporter for KNOE-TV (Monroe, LA).  He’s also worked at stations in Evansville, Ind.; Dayton, Ohio; Myrtle Beach, S.C.; Jackson, Miss.; and in Memphis.

“Kennan joins us with an extensive background in news leadership and a deep commitment to fostering positive newsroom environments,” said Lyons. “He will report directly to me, lead the newsroom and its day-to-day functions, and serve as the primary station manager when I’m in Chicago.”

With Oliphant's arrival, current CBS Detroit News Director Paul Pytlowany will take on a new role as the VP/Director of News Content and Special Projects. Lyons explained, “Under this new structure, Paul will shift his focus to meet the evolving needs of our newsroom and the communities we serve, ensuring we stay ahead in a rapidly changing media landscape.” He will lead the creation of live remote broadcasts, special projects, local community content, and tentpole events.

“Paul’s new role is crucial for the continued advancement of our newsroom, allowing us to innovate and adapt to the demands of a digital-first environment,” Lyons said. “His role will be vital as we continue to produce high-quality, engaging content for our audience.”