Rick Kaplan will leave the National Association of Broadcasters at the end of 2026 after 14 years with the organization. The NAB will consolidate its Government Relations and Legal units beginning in 2027, with Shawn Donilon leading the combined division.
What We Know: Kaplan has served as the NAB’s Chief Legal Officer and Executive Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs for the past 14 years. His departure will coincide with an organizational restructuring that brings the association’s Government Relations and Legal operations together. Donilon will lead the consolidated division and assume the title of Chief Advocacy Officer in 2027. The move combines two key functions responsible for representing broadcasters on legal, regulatory, and legislative issues in Washington.
What They Said: “It has been a tremendous privilege to serve America’s broadcasters and be part of NAB for the past 14 years. I am enormously proud of what we have accomplished together, but what I will value most are the relationships I have built and the opportunity to work alongside such extraordinarily talented and dedicated colleagues.” -Rick Kaplan
“In an association as diverse as ours, Rick’s ability to understand member concerns, build consensus across differently situated groups and develop creative and impactful solutions will leave an indelible mark on our industry for years to come. His tireless advocacy — no matter how big or small the issue — has significantly benefited our members.” -NAB President/CEO Curtis LeGeyt
What Remains Unclear: Kaplan has not revealed if he will take on another role after his departure. Further information about how the consolidated division will distribute its responsibilities between legal affairs and government advocacy also remains unclear.
What It Means: The restructuring puts the NAB’s legal and government relations functions under one leader. Donilon’s expanded role will place both areas under a unified advocacy strategy, which could help streamline that advocacy.
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