PBS Appoints Jill Patrone as New Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary

PBS Appoints Jill Patrone as Chief Legal Officer

PBS has announced the appointment of Jill Patrone as its new Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary. Patrone, who has been with PBS for over 26 years and has served in various legal roles, replaces Katherine Lauderdale, who has taken on the title of Chief Legal Officer Emerita and Senior Advisor to the CEO.

In a statement, PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger emphasized the importance of strong legal leadership during these challenging times. "Jill has been a trusted partner across every aspect of PBS for 26 years. She knows our system, she knows our mission, and she knows what's at stake," Kerger noted. Kerger also expressed gratitude to Lauderdale for her two decades of exceptional stewardship, which she believes laid the groundwork for PBS's future successes.

Patrone has been serving as the Acting Chief Legal Officer since March 2025, overseeing a range of legal functions, including intellectual property, business affairs, litigation, and corporate governance. Expressing her excitement about the new role, Patrone stated, "It's an extraordinary honor to step into this role at PBS. I look forward to continuing the great work alongside my colleagues as we advance our mission in a rapidly evolving environment."

Before her rise to the top legal position, Patrone's journey with PBS began in 2000 when she was hired as Assistant General Counsel. Her career trajectory included roles such as Associate General Counsel and Labor and Employment Counsel. Through the years, she demonstrated expertise and dedication, leading to promotions that culminated in her current position. Legislating for PBS's mission and preserving its values, she has worked alongside internal and external stakeholders to ensure the organization remains a public service leader.

Having received her degrees from Stanford University and Duke Law School, Patrone previously worked at FindLaw.com and practiced at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP. Her extensive background and commitment to public service position her well for the challenges ahead.

As a cherished institution in American media, PBS serves millions of viewers, providing rich content that spans various genres including science, history, nature, and public affairs. Its educational brand, PBS KIDS, stands out as the number one media platform for children, assisting young learners in gaining vital skills for success in life.

With Patrone stepping into the role amidst a transformative period for media, PBS aims to continue its tradition of empowering and informing Americans through quality programming. Her leadership is expected to inspire innovation and dedication within the legal framework crucial for managing its operations effectively.

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