Media General has named Dan Cates vice president and general manager of WJHL, the CBS-affiliate in Johnson City, TN. He begins in his new role on September 3.

Cates has worked for Media General since 1999. Most recently, he worked WSPA in Spartanburg, SC, where he has been director of digital content since 2009. Prior to that, he was news director at WKRG in Mobile.

“I am pleased to name such a talented broadcast professional to our Johnson City station,” VP of broadcast markets Jim Conschafter said in a statement. “Dan is a proven leader and involved community advocate with exceptional journalistic instincts.”

Cates replaces Jack Dempsey, who left WJHL in June to become general manger of rival stations WCYB-WEMT.