David Hughes to Helm WFSB as Gray Media’s Newest General Manager

Gray Media has appointed seasoned broadcast executive David Hughes as the next General Manager of WFSB, its CBS affiliate in Hartford, Connecticut. Hughes, currently GM of WOIO (CBS) and WUAB (CW) in Cleveland, will take over the Hartford role on July 9, 2025, succeeding Dana Neves, who recently advanced to Senior Managing VP at Gray.

Hughes arrives with a proven track record of innovative leadership, particularly in live sports broadcasting. In Cleveland, he played a pivotal role in launching the Rock Entertainment Sports Network—a regional platform that has aired over 200 live sporting events since its debut in August 2024. Under his watch, the station secured broadcasting rights for marquee teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Columbus Crew, deepening Gray’s local sports footprint.

A Veteran in Local News Leadership

Hughes is no stranger to Gray's portfolio. Prior to his tenure in Cleveland, he served as GM at Gray’s stations in Charleston-Huntington, WV (WSAZ & WQCW) and Charlottesville, VA (WVIR). His journalism roots run deep as well, having led the newsroom as News Director at WDBJ in Roanoke, and held earlier editorial roles at WFLA (Tampa), WRAL (Raleigh), and WMAZ (Macon).

With his arrival at WFSB, Hughes is expected to strengthen the station’s news and community engagement efforts while exploring new opportunities for content innovation in the Northeast market.

Gray Media

Gray Media Group (NYSE: GTN) is the largest owner of top-rated local TV stations in the U.S., serving 113 markets and reaching 37% of U.S. television households. It operates the nation’s largest group of Telemundo affiliates, owns a full-service digital agency, and media production companies including Raycom Sports and Tupelo Media Group.

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