Jeff Benninghoff Named WWSB Sarasota GM

Calkins Media’s ABC affiliate WWSB Sarasota-Tampa, Fla. (DMA 14), -said today that Calkins executive Jeff Benninghoff is returning to the station as vice president and general manager.  Benninghoff previously worked at WWSB — first as controller, then as station manager — from 1998 to 2008. He has since served as the group owner’s VP of finance at corporate headquarters in Levittown, Pa. He succeeds Steven Soldinger, who resigned in early July.

Benninghoff’s appointment is effective immediately.  He will report directly to Calkins Media CEO, Mark G. Contreras.

In making the announcement, Calkins Media CEO Mark G. Contreras said, “Jeff has the perfect combination of skills to lead ABC 7 into our digital future.” Contreras added, “He has an impressive track record of accomplishments in broadcasting and has been with the company for nearly 20 years.  His optimism, energy and forward-looking approach will serve us well as we continue to evolve our business models.”

Benninghoff began his career with Calkins Newspapers in 1993 at The Intelligencer in Doylestown, Pa.  He was then promoted to controller of The Burlington Times in 1998.  Recently, Benninghoff helped lead the company’s strategic planning process, working closely executives from the company’s various business units.  He also oversaw the company’s Western Pennsylvania and South Florida newspapers and led the search for the company’s new CEO in 2011.

Benninghoff holds a Bachelor of Science degree from La Salle University and an MBA from the University of South Florida. He is also a certified public accountant.