C-SPAN Co-CEOs to Step Down in 2024

C-SPAN co-CEOs Rob Kennedy and Susan Swain will leave the company in 2024.

The two were named co-CEOs in 2012. Kennedy joined the network in 1987 and Swain began in C-SPAN’s programming department in 1982. She has also served as a principal on-air host for the network.

Kennedy, who also serves as CFO of C-SPAN, plans to retire in mid-May for his retirement. Matt Deprey, vice president, finance will replace him as CFO. Swain does not have an exact retirement date “as she intends to be helpful through the transition.”

Succession planning has been underway for more than a year. A search committee has been formed and Carlsen Resources, a Colorado-based search firm, has been selected to conduct the search for a new CEO.

In addition to their years at the company, Kennedy and Swain guided C-SPAN through COVID, as well as a restructuring due to the decline in linear cable subscriptions, increased product licensing and the launch of new digital products.

“As co-CEOs, and in their prior senior management roles, Rob and Susan crafted a dynamic partnership that has served the network, our employees, and our viewers extraordinarily well,” said Brian Lamb, a member of the C-SPAN board.

The not-for-profit network employs 175 people in Washington, D.C. and West Lafayette, Indiana and operates three TV networks and a D.C.-based FM station.

THR Newsletters