Steven D. Hammel has been named interim executive director and general manager for UNC-TV, the 12-station public television network licensed to the University of North Carolina System. Hammel will assume the duties of Brian Sickora, who has served as director and general manager of UNC-TV since July 1, 2016. Hammel began his new role immediately. 

“As we begin the search for a permanent director, we welcome Steve Hammel to the helm as he brings decades of experience, a savvy media mind, and the skills and talent to keep UNC-TV on its path of growth and innovation,” said President Spellings. “We’re grateful to Brian Sickora for his service and leadership, and wish him the very best in the future.”

Hammel recently served as vice-president and general manager for WRAL-TV and FOX 50 from November 2008 to July 2018, before announcing his retirement in March. In 2015, he was named Broadcasting & Cable’s General Manager of the Year in the country’s Top 1-25 Markets. Hammel was vice president and general manager at KPHO in Phoenix, Arizona from 2002 to 2008 and was Vice President of News at WJLA in Washington, D.C. He has also worked at various stations in diverse markets since the 1970s. Hammel graduated from S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Television-Radio.

"In the coming months, I look forward to working with the very talented staff at UNC-TV, and with them hope to keep the momentum of their progress going," said Hammel.

In his new position, Hammel will help to ensure the continued success of UNC-TV, which transmits four full-time digital program channels to all 100 counties in North Carolina. As interim executive director and general manager, he will oversee a budget of approximately $30 million and over 200 permanent, temporary, and contract employees statewide. He will also work to ensure that the station remains in compliance with all rules and regulations governing public broadcasting entities.