Jim Rose, a media executive and advisor with more than three decades of experience championing local media and its vital role in serving communities, has been named the President & CEO of the Washington State Association of Broadcasters.
“Jim Rose is one of the most respected broadcasters in the Pacific Northwest. His leadership experience, passion for local media, and commitment to advocacy make him uniquely qualified to lead WSAB at a critical time for our industry,” said Neal Boling, Chairman of the Washington State Association of broadcasters. “The Board is excited to welcome Jim and looks forward to working with him as we continue serving Washington broadcasters.”
Rose has led major-market media organizations during his decorated career, including successful tenures as President and General Manager of KING 5 in Seattle and KRON 4 in San Francisco. Under his leadership, teams developed business strategies centered on community engagement, advertiser value, and quality journalism, earning some of the industry’s most prestigious honors, including Peabody and duPont-Columbia awards.
“I’m honored to join the Washington State Association of Broadcasters at a time when trusted local media is more essential than ever,” said Rose. “Local broadcasters inform, protect, connect, and entertain our communities while reflecting the unique character of Washington state. I look forward to working with elected officials to enact and support policies that strengthen local journalism and ensure broadcasters can continue serving their communities with impact, integrity, and purpose.”
Rose served as Chair of the WSAB Board of Directors in 2021 (serving as a board member from 2017 – 2021) and was later a member of the Board of Directors of the California Broadcasters Association. He currently serves on the boards of the American Red Cross and Journalistic Learning Initiative.
He has been recognized for his commitment to diversity in the workplace, receiving the Puget Sound Business Journal Outstanding Voice Award and a Distinguished Alumni Award from his alma mater, Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Jim resides in West Seattle with his spouse, Eric, and enjoys traveling extensively. Jim and Eric have one son, Isaac, who is pursuing a career in public safety in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Founded in 1935, the WSAB advocates for its members in Olympia and Washington, DC, focusing its legislative efforts on the preservation of journalists’ rights (including public records access), advertising categories and any matters that effect the day-to-day operation of radio and television stations.
Rose becomes just the eighth leader of the WSAB in its 91-year history and succeeds Keith Shipman, who served as the organization’s President & CEO for the past decade.
Rose begins his new role with the Washington State Association of Broadcasters on June 15, 2026.
