March 2014 - KCET President/CEO Al Jerome to Retire
On March 18, 2014, Al Jerome, KCET's third president and CEO, announced his retirement after 18 years at the helm of the station.
A television executive with a career that spanned 30 years at the ABC, CBS, and NBC networks before joining KCET in 1996, Jerome oversaw the creation of such KCET shows as "California Connected," "SoCal Connected," "A Place Of Our Own/Los Niños en Su Casa," "PBS Hollywood Presents," "American Family," "Departures," and "Artbound," among others. In 1998 he launched a partnership with Union Bank to produce KCET's Local Heroes Program, currently in its 16th year, celebrating accomplished individuals in the community. Jerome also oversaw KCET's transitions to digital television, independence from PBS, and the merger with Link Media.
KCET has hired international executive search firm Heidrick & Struggles to find Jerome's successor, who is anticipated to be selected by the end of September, in time for KCET's 50th anniversary. After the new president and CEO is hired, Jerome plans to work with the new chief during the transition period before his formal retirement.
When asked what his post-retirement plans were, he left the possibilities open.
"For the first time in my life I don't have a plan...I'm sure I'll do some travel, some traditional things, and some intriguing things that I haven't done before. I'm looking forward to new challenges," said Jerome.
