NPR Names Ryan Merkley as Chief Operating Officer

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 15, 2025 | 3:58pm CT

Ryan Merkley

National Public Radio (NPR) appoints Ryan Merkley as its new Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Merkley will oversee a broad portfolio including Member Partnership, Network Growth, Technology Operations and Distribution, and Product and Audience Technology. This position also places him at the helm of NPR's evolving artificial intelligence strategy.

NPR's President and CEO, Katherine Maher, praised Merkley's extensive background in leadership across various organizations focused on the public good. "Ryan brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in enhancing organizational performance and navigating complex networks," Maher said. "His expertise in product development and emerging technologies is perfectly aligned with NPR's goals to expand and innovate our national public media network."

Prior to joining NPR, Merkley held significant roles in both nonprofit and technology sectors. He was the CEO of Conscience, a biotech nonprofit leveraging AI for drug development, and a Senior Technology Fellow at the Aspen Institute. Merkley also served as the Chief of Staff at the Wikimedia Foundation and as the CEO of Creative Commons, where he launched CC Search.

Merkley's history of fostering open data initiatives and his work in policy positions in Toronto, including as a Senior Advisor to Mayor David Miller, underscore his dedication to civic service and public engagement. "Public media's mission is crucial in providing people with the information necessary to make informed decisions and foster understanding across communities," Merkley commented on his appointment.