WRAL-TV GM to retire later this year

“It has been a terrific honor to work with the team at WRAL and FOX 50,” Hammel said, "and I feel so very grateful to be part of what the Goodmon family has created in Capitol Broadcasting. It’s a special place full of incredibly passionate and dedicated people. After almost ten years here and more than 40 years in broadcasting, which includes the love of deadlines and various pressures, I look forward to enjoying other aspects of life. Until the day I leave, it will continue to be a privilege serving our community and our viewers. After that, I will proudly take the role of being their number one viewer."

A humble leader known for his connection to staff and positive approach to challenges, Hammel has led the stations to many awards and recognitions including an NAB Service to Community Award. Broadcasting & Cable magazine recognized Steve’s commitment to broadcasting in 2015 naming him the large market General Manager of the Year. During his tenure, Hammel has seen continued ratings success for WRAL and was responsible for expanding both WRAL and FOX 50’s local news footprint, adding the 4:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. newscasts on WRAL and expanding the 10 p.m. newscast on FOX 50. He also continued the WRAL legacy of community commitment by championing news franchises like “Here to Help,” dedicated to supporting the most critical community needs. Hammel led the successful WRAL network affiliation change to NBC in 2016 and is known throughout the broadcast industry for his focus on developing leaders and supporting innovation. During his tenure, he established the CBC-UNC Diversity Fellowship Program, which led to college journalism seniors getting their first jobs in broadcasting, including some at WRAL-TV.

James (Jimmy) F. Goodmon, Jr., president and chief operating officer of Capitol Broadcasting Company, said, “Steve has done an outstanding job in carrying the torch for WRAL-TV and FOX 50 and remaining true to the ongoing legacy of our company, mainly an unwavering commitment to people and community. His calm, steady leadership and people-centered approach made him one of the most beloved GMs in this station's history. Steve will always be a part of the family.”

Hammel has been an impactful community leader during his time with Capitol Broadcasting Company. He is a past president of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters, a current board member of both the National Association of Broadcasters and University of North Carolina School of Journalism and a former member of the CBS Affiliate Board. Hammel is also involved with the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce.

Hammel became vice president & general manager at WRAL-TV in November, 2008. He now oversees both WRAL-TV and FOX 50 (WRAZ-TV) as vice president & general manager. He came to Capitol Broadcasting Company from Phoenix, Ariz., where he held the same position at the CBS affiliate, KPHO. While at KPHO, Steve initiated and developed the Meredith-ASU Cronkite Journalism Minority Fellowship Program. He also started the first ever in Phoenix Hispanic Advisory Board. Prior to Phoenix, Steve oversaw news departments in Washington, DC; St. Louis; Rochester, NY; Dallas; Syracuse; and Harrisburg, Pa. He also was a television and radio news reporter, as well as a newscast producer.

During his broadcast career, additional community involvement included: Chairman, Anti-Defamation League – Arizona Region; Executive Board, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce; Executive Board, Maricopa County Volunteer Center; Board, Arizona State University Walter Cronkite School of Journalism Foundation.

Steve graduated from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. He has a wife and two golden retrievers and plans to remain in North Carolina.

Steve’s final day with WRAL-TV/FOX 50 has not been announced, pending the search for his replacement.