Steve Levi Upped To News Director At KSAZ-KUTP Phoenix

Steve Levi

Fox Television Stations on Wednesday promoted Steve Levi to vice president and news director of its Phoenix duopoly of KSAZ (Fox) and KUTP (MNT) effective next week.

He has been with the stations since 1994, most recently as assistant news director, and succeeds Doug Bannard, who has been with the Fox Television Stations for 33 years, and who announced his retirement today.

Michael Lewis, KSAZ-KUTP SVP-GM, said: “We thank Doug for being a force of innovation, dedication, and leadership at KSAZ for over 33 years. His career will leave an indelible mark at the station and his contributions will resonate within the company for many years to come.

“Steve is a 28-year veteran of the KSAZ newsroom. He has been an integral part of our success over the years and his promotion will provide a seamless transition for the entire news team.”

Doug Bannard

Bannard joined the Fox-owned Phoenix duopoly in 1990. He has spent the last 26 years as its vice president and news director, during which he oversaw the launch of the station’s website and social media platforms, created partnerships with key entities including newspapers, radio stations, and universities, and increased the station’s news production from 37.5 to 78.5 hours a week while maintaining its dominant position as market leader. In addition, he spearheaded the launch of the Fox TV national streaming news service now known as LiveNOW from Fox. He began at the station as a producer, then an executive producer, and later an assistant news director. Prior to joining the duopoly, he spent six years holding various roles at KVOA Tucson. A graduate of the University of Arizona, Bannard holds a Bachelor of Art degree in Political Science.

Bannard said: “I am grateful to Fox Television Stations for the constant support which allowed me to build and maintain the market’s best news organization, and for embracing the creation of LiveNOW from Fox. None of my success would have been possible without the dedication and hard work of my amazing colleagues throughout the years. I have been fortunate to work alongside Steve and know he is ready to take the reins in the newsroom.”

Levi has been with the Fox Television Stations since 1994. He started as an intern, and was promoted to assignment editor, associate producer, producer and executive producer before being named assistant news director, his role for the last eight years. In this position, Levi has helped oversee news coverage for both daily newscasts and high-profile events, as well as played a key role in helping create and launch new newscasts and digital initiatives.

A graduate of Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, Levi holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism.