#United States #New York #WNET Group #PBS THIRTEEN #Steven Belser

Steven Belser Takes on New Role at The WNET Group

The WNET Group, the esteemed parent company of PBS flagship THIRTEEN, has made a significant announcement regarding its leadership. Starting on November 9, 2026, Steven Belser will step into the pivotal role of Vice President of Distribution and New Revenue. His appointment marks a strategic move towards unifying various operational facets—programming, rights, clearances, and research—within the organization. This initiative aims to enhance WNET's content distribution strategy across multiple platforms, ultimately increasing audience engagement and revenue streams.

Belser, who brings over two decades of rich media experience, has a remarkable track record that includes leadership positions at prominent organizations such as Vox Media, Tribune Media, Bloomberg Media, and VICE Media. His background demonstrates a robust intertwining of content creation and revenue generation across the various sectors of distribution, subscriptions, licensing, and brand partnerships.

Prior to joining The WNET Group, he served as Vice President and General Manager at Vox Media, where he played a crucial role in overseeing several notable brands including Vox.com, The Verge, and Recode. While at Tribune Media, he was responsible for national content and monetization strategies across its extensive 42-station broadcast network. His expertise also includes being a founding member of Bloomberg's QuickTake and NowThis Media, and he has held vital roles at VICE Media and McCourt Global/Unfinished Media.

Edward F. O'Keefe, President and CEO of The WNET Group, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Belser's arrival, stating, "As we explore new ways to reach audiences and expand our impact to build a sustainable future for independent public media, Steven's experience and entrepreneurial perspective will be especially valuable. I have no doubt that he will introduce fresh ideas and opportunities that will invigorate our organization."

Belser himself acknowledged the importance of WNET's longstanding relationship with its audience, highlighting the cherished programs like Great Performances, American Masters, and Nature that have formed a bond with viewers over generations. He remarked, "Now we have a chance to bring those programs, and what we make next, to new viewers on the platforms they already use. I'm excited to work with Ed and the team to build closer relationships with those viewers and create new, durable revenue for WNET."

Belser's educational background includes media studies at the University of Arizona and New York University. Additionally, he is a dedicated member of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, where he participates as a judge for the esteemed News and Documentary Emmy® Awards. Based in New York City, he lives with his wife and two children.

About The WNET Group

The WNET Group specializes in creating inspiring media content and providing meaningful experiences to diverse audiences across the nation. As the community-supported home of New York's THIRTEEN—America's flagship PBS station—it operates multiple platforms including WLIW, THIRTEEN PBS KIDS, THIRTEEN WORLD, and WLIW Create, along with long-standing NPR station WLIW-FM. This nonprofit organization reaches over five million viewers each month, bringing a rich array of programming that includes arts, culture, education, documentaries, entertainment, and more.

With over 60 years of experience in public media production, The WNET Group has made it a mission to foster lifelong learning through its various initiatives, highlighting key topics such as poverty, social justice, economic opportunities, and environmental awareness. Through its Passport service, station members enjoy seamless streaming access to new and archived programming, solidifying The WNET Group's position as a leader in public media.

In summary, Steven Belser’s appointment heralds a new chapter for The WNET Group as it strives to expand its reach and elevate its content offerings in an ever-evolving media landscape.