Steve Hammel, former GM for WRAL, named UNC-TV Interim General Manager

Steven D. Hammel, who retired in July after a 10-year leadership position with WRAL-TV, has been named interim general manager for UNC-TV.

Hammel served as vice-president and general manager for WRAL-TV and FOX 50 from November 2008 to July 2018.

"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, who in his new role as Interim General Manager will oversee UNC-TV's $30 million budget and over 200 North Carolina employees.

Hammel started his position Tuesday and will assume the duties of Brian Sickora, who served as director and general manager of UNC-TV since July 1, 2016.

“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 UNC President Margaret Spellings. “We’re grateful to Brian Sickora for his service and leadership, and wish him the very best in the future.”

Hammel was named Broadcasting & Cable’s General Manager of the Year in the country’s Top 25 markets in 2015. He graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Television-Radio and has been a member of the industry since the 1970s.