Nicki Harkrider-Probey is a distinguished executive leader
with over 30 years of experience in media sales and leadership. She currently
provides strategic consultation to executives and organizations seeking growth,
known for her passion and inspirational leadership that helps unlock
extraordinary growth for individuals and companies.
As the former Revenue Officer of Local Media at TEGNA, Nicki
led the company’s vision and revenue growth strategy across 64 properties in 51
markets. She was responsible for driving revenue growth, sales enablement,
people development, and marketing initiatives aimed at transforming the sales
organization to achieve ambitious goals. Under her leadership, TEGNA saw
significant growth in digital revenue, solidifying its position as a leader in
the media industry. She also played a key role in transforming TEGNA’s
leadership profile by recruiting and promoting talented female leaders. Between
2016 and 2024, 31 station sales leaders were promoted to Director of Sales or
General Manager, a testament to her ability to identify and develop talent.
Nicki is dedicated to inspiring people, achieving
excellence, and fostering growth. Before her role at TEGNA, she served as
Director of Sales and Director of Local Sales at WFAA, where she was
instrumental in developing revenue strategies that led to significant growth in
both television and digital platforms. Her innovative approach to sales and
marketing resulted in record-breaking revenue, earning her recognition as a top
performer in the industry.
Nicki’s career at WFAA began in 2002 as a Local Account
Executive. By 2005, she had advanced to Local Sales Manager, and in 2011 she
returned to the station as Director of Local Sales. During her tenure, she led
successful sales campaigns that not only increased revenue but also enhanced
the station’s reputation and viewer engagement. Before returning to WFAA, Nicki
served as Local Sales Manager at CBS’ KTVT/KTXA from 2009 to 2011, driving
sales growth and expanding the station’s market reach.
Nicki’s extensive experience in national television sales
includes roles at Katz Media, United Television Sales, Seltel, Millennium
Television Sales, and CBS Spot Television. This national experience provided
her with a deep understanding of the media landscape and the skills necessary
to excel in a competitive industry.
Nicki holds a BA in Advertising with a minor in Spanish from
Texas Tech University. Her passion for television sales began during an
internship at KAMC-TV in Lubbock, where she observed how sellers helped clients
achieve their goals.
Throughout her career, Nicki has earned numerous accolades,
including the Alliance for Women in Media’s Television Station Management Award
for Dallas/Fort Worth in 2006 and 2012. In 2012, she was honored as WFAA
Employee of the Year. In 2022, Nicki was recognized by Cynopsis’ Women in Media
as the 2022 Corporate Visionary, acknowledging her leadership and vision in the
post-pandemic media landscape.
Nicki is committed to mentoring the next generation of media
professionals. She serves on the Board of Visitors at the Gaylord School of
Journalism at the University of Oklahoma and has previously chaired the
Rockwall Amica Gala, supporting local nonprofits in the Rockwall community. Her
philanthropic efforts reflect her dedication to giving back and helping others
succeed.
Nicki resides in Heath, Texas, with her husband, Matt
Probey, and their five children. She attributes her work ethic and character to
her parents, who modeled dedication, loyalty, and unconditional love in both
their work and family lives. Nicki’s ability to balance a successful career
while raising a family is a testament to her resilience and commitment to
others. She serves as a role model for aspiring leaders who seek to make a
meaningful impact both professionally and personally.
Nicki’s leadership has been widely praised. A former
colleague at TEGNA remarked, “Nicki’s ability to inspire and lead a team
is unparalleled. Her strategic vision and talent for nurturing potential have
been instrumental in driving success.” A team member at WFAA noted,
“Working with Nicki has been transformative. Her passion for excellence
and commitment to developing her team has made a lasting impact on my
career.”
In summary, Nicki Harkrider-Probey’s career is marked by
exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a commitment to excellence. Her
contributions to the media industry and dedication to mentoring others continue
to drive positive change, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.
1983 John Criswell
1984 Ron Chapman
1985 Norm Campbell
1986 Frank O’Neil
1987 Marty Haag
1988 Patty Parker
1989 Dave Lane
1990 Susan Ziller
1991 Gary Hill
1992 Paula McStay
1993 Elizabeth Criswell
1994 Doug Adams
1995 Greg Regian
1996 Shirley Ward
1997 Rick Mills
1998 Tom Kalahar
1999 John Hare
2000 Jean Ann Cooper
2001 Dan Bennett
2002 Susie August
2003 Kathy Clements
2004 Mike Irvine
2005 Larry Spiegel
2006 Sandy Cooke
2007 Karen Coffey
2008 Brenda Wurst
2009 Judy Miller
2010 Angela Betasso
2011 Kathy Saunders
2012 Jon Heidtke
2013 Gloria Campos
2014 Liz Barber
2015 John Poroyea
2016 Stan Richards
2017 Tom Moroch
2018 Sandra Connell
2019 Kalyn Asher
2020 Vivian Unger
2021 Jim Gaither
2022 Brian Purdy
2023 Sherree Pence