Quinn To Retire As GM Of WGAL Lancaster

Paul Quinn, president and GM since 1993 of Hearst Television’s NBC affiliate WGAL Lancaster-Harrisburg, Pa. (DMA 41), will retire later this year, capping more than four decades in local television and nearly two decades at the helm of WGAL. His successor will be announced at a future date.

“Under Paul’s steady leadership, WGAL has become one of the nation’s most respected local television stations,” said Hearst Television President-CEO David J. Barrett.  “His commitment to quality local news coverage and impactful community service has set a high standard for the market and the industry.”

“It has been a great run,” Quinn said. “I am extremely thankful to have had the opportunity to work with Hearst, and other terrific companies, and some of the best and brightest and most committed people in the broadcasting business — especially during my tenure at WGAL. Our staff here cares deeply about providing the best local television service possible and works tirelessly to make that happen every day. And we have had some fun in the process.”

Before joining WGAL as president-GM in 1993, Quinn was general sales manager and station manager of WRAL Raleigh, N.C. Previously, he managed the Katz Communications Charlotte, N.C,, office, which represented national advertising sales for 150 television stations.

Before that, he was an account executive at WBTV Charlotte.  He began his career at Procter & Gamble, serving in sales in Kinston and Charlotte, N.C.

Among numerous industry and civic activities, Quinn is a member and past chairman of the joint board of directors of the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters. In 2000, Quinn was named Pennsylvania’s TV Broadcaster of the Year by the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters.

A native of Gastonia, N.C., he holds a BA in history from Clemson University.