David Rehr has announced that he is resigning as president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters.
The surprise announcement comes two weeks after the close of the 2009 NAB Show, which saw attendance decline by more than 20,000. Rehr, who took control of the association Dec. 5, 2005, has led the group during a time of great transition in the broadcasting industry.
Three particular issues, the DTV transition, the FCC’s decision to authorize unlicensed devices to use TV white spaces and the 2GHz Broadcast Auxiliary Service relocation, remain unresolved as Rehr leaves his position. "I have enjoyed leading America's broadcasters through this time of change and challenge," Rehr said in a statement released April 6.
In the statement, Rehr called efforts to inform the public about the DTV transition “enormously successful.” Efforts to revitalize radio through the “Radio Heard Here” campaign have positioned “radio broadcasters well for the future," he said.
Before joining the NAB, Rehr served as president of the National Beer Wholesalers Association. The NAB selected Rehr for the top spot after a nine-month executive search. He took over for longtime NAB president and CEO Eddie Fritts.
Rehr plans to continue in his current role with the association during a transition phase. Janet McGregor, NAB's chief operating and financial officer, will work with Rehr and assume day-to-day duties until a successor is named.
