NPR has a new Chief Content Officer. Nadine Zylstra is taking over the role at the network.
What We Know: Zylstra comes to NPR after previously working as the Global Programming Chief at Pinterest. She also worked as the global head of YouTube Originals and worked as a programming executive for Sesame Street. A native South African, she came to the U.S. originally to work for VH1. In an interview with NPR‘s David Folkenflik, she shared her excitement for the move.
What They Said: “I really feel like I’ve been training for this job my whole life. I really do care about making the world a better place. When I am at my best, it’s when that connection between what I do and what I care about really comes together.” -New NPR Chief Content Officer Nadine Zylstra
“In Nadine, we found somebody who comes out of public media… who understands the importance of media with a mission and a purpose, and as a tool for civic engagement.” -NPR CEO Katherine Maher
What Remains Unclear: Nadine Zylstra’s official start date has not been revealed. It has only been noted that she’ll begin in July. She’ll be based at the Culver City, California office, but will come to NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C. once per month.
What It Means: Zylstra’s appointment comes just after the network reorganized its newsroom due to budget cuts and buyouts. The network’s funding model has shifted dramatically in recent years. It is still adjusting to that new reality.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.
