The PBS investigative documentary series “Frontline” has named Raney Aronson deputy executive producer. The move is notable, as “Frontline” has been under the leadership of only one person, David Fanning, since it was created in 1983.

A Brian Stelter notes in the NY Times, Aronson’s promotion signals that she is the likely heir to the “Frontline” throne when Fanning decides to retire.

The news did not come as a surprise — Ms. Aronson has been managing much of the production of “Frontline” for the past five years — but as confirmation of Mr. Fanning’s intention to hand the series over to her sometime in the future. “The title deputy means someone appointed and empowered to act on behalf of another,” he wrote in an internal memo to the staff on Saturday. “It’s my pleasure to have her agree to do so on my behalf, and share the responsibility and privilege of guiding Frontline’s present and future.”

“Frontline” is produced by one of public television’s powerhouse stations, WGBH Boston, which also produces “Antiques Roadshow,” “Nova” and “Masterpiece.”