Price Pine-bound

Veteran journalist and radio talk show host Sanka Price is tipped to take over the reins as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), Barbados TODAY has learned.

Well-placed sources revealed that Price, who, for years has worked as a journalist with the Nation Publishing Company Limited was chosen from a shortlist of potential candidates after a lengthy selection process. The incoming CEO has also been a moderator on Starcom Network Inc.’s Down to Brass Tacks radio programme.

Investigations revealed that Sherwood McCaskie, who has been Acting General Manager did not apply for the CEO position and it is unclear if he will be returning to his substantive post as Head of Archives and Research.

When asked whether he could verify the development which Barbados TODAY confirmed with numerous sources, Price replied: “I have really no comment to make right now.”

Reports suggest the appointment takes effect in mid-June to be followed by other appointments to be made under an updated organisational structure.

McCaskie, who is currently the Acting GM was preceded by Andrew Greene, following the 2018 departures of ex-General Manager Doug Hoyte and his deputy, Rod London.

The post of General Manager was replaced with that of Chief Executive Officer which was ratified by The Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation Amendment Act, Cap 2019 which was tabled in Parliament last year. The amendments also make provision for the appointment of a Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Senator Lucille Moe, who is the Minister with responsibility for Broadcasting, could not be reached for comment.

An advertisment for the position of CEO was posted in February and indicated that the successful candidate would be responsible for directing, managing and coordinating the activities of the Corporation in accordance with policies established by the Board of Directors.

A month later, the corporation requested proposals for a public-private partnership with the view of establishing a largely or completely self-financing broadcasting company “that is a symbol of broadcasting excellence and social responsibility”.

Back in November 2018, the corporation sent home 104 employees as part of Government’s restructuring efforts. kareemsmith@barbadostoday.bb