Maryland Public Television (MPT) has announced the appointment of Eleanor Hong as managing director, Digital Content & Operations at the statewide public television network. MPT is the sixth largest in total revenue among the nation’s 150 PBS member stations. In her new role, Hong oversees the network’s principal digital operations and content assets with responsibilities for MPT’s digital content series and properties, social media engagement, and online streaming services, among other duties. Hong comes to MPT from WORLD Channel, a digital multicast public TV network based in Boston (WGBH), where she served for more than three years as director of audience development and engagement.

Also at MPT, Patricia Fitzhugh was named vice president and chief financial officer. Fitzhugh brings more than 25 years of professional accounting experience, nearly 16 of which have been in service to the State of Maryland. Most recently, Fitzhugh was deputy chief operating and financial officer at the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System. In her new role, Fitzhugh leads the network’s Finance & Accounting Department, providing budget preparation and forecasting on behalf of MPT to the Department of Budget & Management and the Maryland General Assembly. She also manages audits and Corporation for Public Broadcasting grant requests. Fitzhugh supervises a team of 12 individuals responsible for MPT’s business affairs, fiscal accounts and administration, procurement, and MPT Foundation accounts, among other duties.

David S. Brown Enterprises announced the promotion of Heather Palmer, in main photo, to the position of Vice President of Marketing. With nearly 20 years of experience in strategic marketing, public relations, advertising, and sales, Palmer brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to her new role. She joined David S. Brown Enterprises four years ago as the Director of Marketing, and was promoted to Senior Director within one year. Prior to joining David S. Brown Enterprises, she spent 12 years at Continental Realty Corporation as Director of Sales and Training. Established in 1933 and headquartered in Owings Mills, Maryland, David S. Brown Enterprises is a full-service real estate company.

Chad Arrendell

Baltimore-based Planit has hired Chad Arrendell as director of media and analytics. With more than 10 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Arrendell will oversee the Media and Analytics team in strategic plan development, media buying analysis and optimization. “We’re thrilled to have Chad as the driving force behind our media team,” said Ed Callahan, creative strategist and co-founder of Planit. “Bringing his experience leading diverse teams and drawing upon his array of client experience during his career, Chad will not only provide guidance to clients but also serve as a mentor for his fast-growing team. We can’t wait to see the results of the great work he facilitates on behalf of current and future clients.” According to LinkedIn, his regional agency experience includes Marriner Marketing in Columbia where he was Director, Integrated Digital Strategy, from October 2021 to September 2022.