Jim Thomas Named CSD At KDVR, Denver’s Fox

Jim Thomas, former VP of Marketing for Magid and Journal Broadcasting, is headed to KDVR in Denver, the Fox affiliate owned by Tribune, to lead the marketing efforts as the new creative services director.

Prior to his corporate gigs at Magid and Journal, Thomas worked in marketing and creative departments in Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, Richmond and University Park, PA.

Jim has strong ties to Colorado. His daughter is a graduate of Metropolitan State University of Denver and his son and daughter-in-law live in Centennial.

He, his wife Mindy and pooch Rosie are eager to make their home in Colorado.

I caught up with Thomas as he was driving around in his son’s car in Denver.

Thomas and I joked that he’s turning the table on his son, at least temporarily, until he can find his own digs.

“Son, can I borrow your car and lend me $20 bucks for dinner,” I joked.

Thomas is moving from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, where, ironically, his daughter just moved.

He has some explaining to do.

Thomas starts next week.

“Jim knows how to lead a winning team and has a proven track record of maximizing resources across all platforms,” said Joan Barrett, KDVR’s general manager.

“I am looking forward to working with Jim and am confident in his strategic vision in leading our creative department for years to come.”

In talking to Thomas about how this all came to be, he couldn’t be more effusive about the people he met, and how much that was a criteria for him.

“I’m buying into the people who are in this building, we’re in it.”

And about his return to work in local TV?

“I’ve always loved the station biz. It’s changed but it’s still exciting. I’m impressed by who I met and what I saw.”

Thomas said he’s following a friend’s advice.

“Try fresh, and new, and love coming into work every day.”

So what did he tell his new staff about what to expect from him?

“I listen first, but have a point of view. If you have an idea, prepare it and pitch it, I’m open.

In a prepared statement, Thomas said, “Collaboration and fresh ideas are key to the continued success for expanding marketing and content efforts across media platforms.

“Looking forward, television stations and their related digital/social platforms have tremendous opportunities to reach people who seek news and information that fits their needs and busy lives.”

“I’ve been impressed with the people, content and marketing being developed at FOX 31 and Colorado’s Own Ch. 2, and I’m excited to join this team that does such a great job covering Denver and the entire Northern Colorado community.”

NOTE: I’ve known Jim for quite a few years. In addition to his marketing savvy, broad experience, leadership skills, there’s Jim the person. He’s the kind of guy you’d want in your foxhole.

Here’s some examples of Thomas’ recent work. This reel reflects new advertising, promotion and social media messages from KRDO, Colorado Springs.