WDEF Chattanooga GM Phil Cox Retiring

WDEF Chattanooga, Tenn., General Manager Phillip Cox announced that he plans to retire from the CBS affiliate on Dec. 31 after 17 years in Chattanooga and 22 years with Morris Multimedia.

He joined the company in 2001 as GM of WXXV Biloxi-Gulfport, Miss., and has served Morris in the same capacity at WWAY, Wilmington, N.C. in addition to his time at WDEF. He also worked previously as station manager in the Montgomery, Birmingham and Anniston-Gadsden, Ala..

Morris Network Chief Operating Officer Bobby Berry said: “We are all better broadcasters because of Phil Cox. Phil brought a managerial and leadership style that others envy. I know I have been fortunate to have had Phil in my life for the last 20 years. He will be missed but we are happy for him as he enters his next steps in life’s journey.”

Berry also announced that Dan Howard, WDEF’s General Sales Manager, will be promoted to GM effective Oct. 1 and Jess Raby, WDEF’s local sales and digital manager, will also be promoted to general sales manager at the same time.

Berry said: “I am excited for both Dan and Jess.  These two have worked tirelessly to build a strong sales department and with Phil’s retirement each will take on new leadership roles within the station. I look forward to working with them as they lead WDEF into the future.”

“Phil will remain with the station as a consultant to the end of the year,” Berry added.

Charles H Morris, president and CEO of Morris Multimedia had this to say about Phil’s retirement

“Phil Cox is a wonderful leader who has improved our television stations and helped us grow our broadcast division.  He will be missed and I wish him well.”