Connecticut Public President and CEO Mark G. Contreras plans to retire later this year, the organization announced this week.
Contreras, who has led Connecticut Public for seven years, said he will remain in the role during the transition.
The Connecticut Public Board of Trustees said it has formed a search committee to lead the succession process. The committee will be chaired by trustee Aedhmar Hynes and will be guided by Ann Blinkhorn of Blinkhorn LLC, a Connecticut-based executive search firm.
“Mark has been a remarkable leader, and we are deeply grateful for his dedication to stewarding our mission and goals,” board chairman George Norfleet said in a statement.
Contreras said “the time is right to create space for new energy, creativity and vision at the organization,” adding he believes Connecticut Public is in a position of strength.
Connecticut Public includes Connecticut Public Television (CPTV) and Connecticut Public Radio (WNPR).
In an interview with Connecticut Public Radio, Contreras said the organization remains financially strong despite Congress canceling federal funding for public media.
According to Connecticut Public Radio, the organization had been receiving about $2 million annually through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting — roughly 10% of its budget — but increased support from donors, foundations, businesses and members has helped offset the loss, and the organization also has an endowment fund.
According to Connecticut Public’s latest available 990 tax form, the organization reported $22.9 million in revenue and a deficit of $3.9 million in fiscal year 2023, which ended June 30, 2023. Contreras reported $662,098 in compensation that fiscal year.
