Two distinguished figures in the broadcasting world are set to lead the highly anticipated Forecast 2026 event. Rob Babin, Executive Vice President and Head of Radio at Cox Media Group, and Sean Compton, President of Nexstar Networks, will jointly assume the role of co-chairs for this year's gathering. Their appointment brings a wealth of experience and vision to the table, ensuring the event maintains its reputation as a pivotal platform for industry dialogue. Deborah Parenti, President/Publisher of Streamline Media, expressed her enthusiasm, highlighting the invaluable contributions these leaders will bring to shaping the agenda.

This annual summit, now in its 23rd year, continues to serve as a unique financial forum that unites key stakeholders from the broadcast sector. Attendees include chief financial officers, group executives, and Wall Street analysts who convene to explore the trends and business dynamics influencing the future of radio and television. Both Babin and Compton bring extensive backgrounds to their roles, with Babin overseeing a significant portion of Cox Media Group’s operations and Compton managing strategic initiatives across multiple networks under Nexstar. Their insights promise to enrich discussions on technology shifts, advertising strategies, and audience engagement patterns reshaping the media landscape.

The evolution of broadcasting is marked by rapid advancements, necessitating proactive leadership to navigate emerging challenges and opportunities. As Babin emphasized, the industry cannot afford to merely adapt but must take an active role in driving innovation forward. Similarly, Compton underscored the critical role of local broadcasters in delivering reliable news amidst political changes in Washington, D.C., advocating for strengthened support of these vital services. The Forecast 2026 summit aims not only to address current issues but also to celebrate achievements through its traditional recognition ceremonies, honoring influential figures in both radio and television. This event invites all decision-makers shaping the future of their organizations to engage in meaningful discourse and collaboration.