CBS Ups Tumulty To Lead Affiliate Relations

Elizabeth Tumulty has been named president, affiliate relations for the CBS Television Network, reporting to Leslie Moonves, president-CEO, CBS Corp.

Tumulty, an industry veteran who joined CBS in June as EVP, affiliate relations, will oversee all operations of the department, including strategic planning, business affairs and affiliation agreements. She succeeds Diana Wilkin, who will work with Tumulty to ensure a smooth transition.

“After a terrific tenure with the CW, Elizabeth has proven herself a formidable asset to the CBS Television Network and our affiliate body,” Moonves said. “She is a great negotiator who possesses a keen knowledge of the network-affiliate model, and I am confident she will be a terrific steward for the long-standing relationships we’ve had with one of our most important constituencies — the stations that broadcast our programming.”

Prior to joining CBS six months ago, Tumulty was EVP, network distribution for the CW Network, serving as its first head of distribution and affiliate relations when it launched in September 2006. Tumulty’s role quickly grew to include oversight of affiliate marketing. Her responsibilities expanded again in 2012 with the addition of the CW Plus Network, a national feed of the CW Network available in small markets across the country.

Before joining the CW, Tumulty was SVP, affiliate relations and communications for the WB Network. She came to WB in 2000 as Director, Affiliate Relations, and was promoted four times during her six-year tenure.

Additionally, Tumulty has held senior broadcast station management posts at Fox and NBC affiliates. She gained her syndication experience at 20th Television and began her career with the Blair Rep Firm in Chicago.