Kerry O'Connor

Results-driven strategic communications leader with 15+ years of experience across major news and media brands (Scripps News/Court TV, CNN, HLN, Fox News). Trusted partner to senior leaders and editorial teams—developing messaging frameworks and PR strategies that protect reputation, strengthen stakeholder confidence, and drive audience growth across linear, digital, and streaming platforms.

Director, Network Operations & Executive Producer at Scripps News / Court TV (2023-01 – Present)

Strategic leadership role overseeing network operations, programming, staffing, editorial direction, communications, and cross-platform distribution across linear, digital, and streaming platforms.

• Grew connected TV viewership by refining live coverage strategy, increasing hours viewed +36% (2024 vs. 2023) and +30% (2025 vs. 2024)
• Partner with Head of Network as second-in-command, aligning leaders across programming, operations, and distribution around priorities, risks, and key messages
• Support high-visibility coverage with rapid-response communications planning, message discipline, and stakeholder alignment across internal teams and external partners
• Implemented AI-enabled workflows to reduce manual, error-prone tasks and improve operational speed and accuracy within six months
• Launched two bespoke prime-time shows by building and leading a high-performing team and production plan
• Oversee programming, staffing, editorial direction, communications, and cross-platform distribution across linear, digital, and streaming

Founder, Communications, Media & Editorial Consultant at Atlanta KEO, LLC (2020-02 – Present)

Provides strategic communications consulting, editorial guidance, media relations support, and executive coaching services.

• Develop external communications strategies and messaging frameworks that strengthen executive visibility, stakeholder alignment, and reputation
• Coach leaders on media readiness, spokesperson delivery, and high-stakes interviews for broadcast and digital outlets
• Provide editorial consulting (story development, scripts, and content review) to improve clarity, tone, and brand consistency
• Support media relations, including press materials, pitches, outreach, and interview prep

Executive Producer at Scripps News / Court TV (2021-01 – 2023-12)

Managed prime-time programming production, operations optimization, and editorial execution.

• Delivered 40% prime-time ratings growth in eight months by restructuring the block and optimizing show strategy
• Built a branded prime-time program by repackaging existing content into a high-performing evergreen show for weekend local-network broadcasts
• Stabilized operations after downsizing by redesigning workflows and roles to maintain output quality and execution speed
• Led 5+ hours of daily live prime-time programming and special coverage; partnered with editorial, legal, and technical teams to ensure compliant execution

Executive Producer at HLN (2015-01 – 2021-12)

Led programming production, team management, monetization strategy, and network rebrand communications.

• Created 10+ sponsored content initiatives with major national brands, expanding monetization opportunities and audience engagement
• Designed and launched a two-hour dayside programming block focused on social issues, health, and culture
• Led external communications strategy during a network rebrand to maintain message discipline and brand consistency across audiences and partners
• Directed 5 hours of daily live programming and led a 50+ person team; owned budgets, staffing plans, and sponsor integrations

Senior Producer / Overnight Supervisor at CNN (2013-01 – 2015-12)

Launched and managed New Day program, overseeing editorial standards, overnight production operations, and breaking news coverage.

• Selected for launch team for New Day, establishing editorial standards and overnight production rhythm
• Led breaking news coverage and editorial execution across five hours of live broadcast
• Managed teams of 55, coordinating producers, editorial staff, and control room operations to deliver on-air readiness

Senior Field Producer at Fox News Channel (2006-01 – 2013-12)

Produced major political and breaking news coverage with focus on crime and justice reporting.

• Produced major political and breaking news coverage, including national election cycles and international reporting
• Led Crime and Justice coverage planning and execution, coordinating logistics, interviews, and editorial approvals

Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications & Psychology – Quinnipiac University