Salem Media Group is saying goodbye to one of its most influential executives. The company announced that Chief Operating Officer David Evans has stepped down from his role effective Aug. 31, 2025, ending a 25-year run with the broadcaster and digital media firm.
Evans first joined Salem in 2000 as Chief Financial Officer. A position that quickly positioned him as one of the key architects of the company’s financial strategy. Four years later, he led Salem’s successful follow-on offering. A move that provided the foundation for its next stage of growth. Over time, Evans shifted into new leadership roles, overseeing Salem’s digital transformation and later becoming COO in 2022.
In a statement, CEO David Santrella praised Evans’ steady leadership and vision.
“David has been an important part of Salem’s journey. We are deeply grateful for his dedication, professionalism, and leadership over the years,” Santrella said.
His tenure coincided with some of the company’s most pivotal changes. Evans helped launch and build out four of Salem’s cornerstone digital properties: Salem Web Network, Salem Church Products, Townhall Media, and Eagle Financial Publications. Each of those brands carved out a space in faith-based and conservative media. This diversified Salem’s portfolio and allowing the company to evolve beyond its traditional broadcast base.
That sentiment was echoed by Salem co-founder and longtime executive chairman Ed Atsinger, who credited Evans with guiding Salem into the digital age.
“David’s impact on Salem has been profound,” Atsinger said. “From his early days as CFO to his leadership in building our digital media presence. His contributions have helped define who we are today. We thank him for his many years of service and wish him continued success in the future.”
Salem did not immediately announce a successor. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how the company manages the change at the COO level.
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