Iowa Public Radio has appointed its next CEO, naming Peter Clowney to lead the Hawkeye State’s public media network of 27 radio stations starting September 28. Clowney joins IPR from Nebraska Public Media, where he has served as Chief Operating Officer since 2023.
At NPM, Clowney led a staff of more than 170, with his purview including financial supervision, human resources, engineering, education and research, and innovation teams. As COO, he led the acquisition of the NPM’s acquisition of a broadcast signal in Omaha earlier this year.
Spanning three decades, Clowney’s media career has included senior content and editorial leadership roles at Pushkin Industries, SiriusXM, Stitcher, Gimlet Media, and American Public Media, where he worked with This American Life and The Freakonomics Radio Network.
He succeeds Myrna Johnson, who has led IPR since 2014.
Clowney said, “IPR has everything I believe public media needs to thrive: dedicated, deeply experienced talent, a genuine commitment to its communities, and a clear vision for connecting Iowans to each other. I’m honored to join this team and to help build on the strong foundation in place. My focus will be on the daily habits and trusted relationships that make public media indispensable in people’s lives, and on making sure every Iowan knows what IPR offers them, every day.”
IPR Board of Directors Chair Libby Jacobs added, “Peter brings a rare combination of editorial excellence, operational discipline, and genuine passion for public service. He understands that our mission goes well beyond broadcasting; it’s about creating real connection across every corner of Iowa. We are confident he is the right leader to carry IPR into its next chapter.”
IPR Board of Directors Vice Chair Ken Brown commented, “Peter’s experience and demonstrated commitment to inclusive, values-driven leadership make him exceptionally well-suited to lead IPR through its next phase of growth. We look forward to welcoming him to Iowa.”
