Steve Doerr, who most recently served as vice president and general manager of Providence’s WLNE, has been named VP-group manager of Smith Media‘s New York/New England region.

The Vermont-based company announced the appointment today, stating that Doerr will oversee WFFF and WVNY in Burlington and WKTV in Utica, NY.

“Steve is an exceptional individual and a seasoned broadcast executive with diverse expertise in all key facets of television station management,” Smith Media VP-CEO Michael Granados said, in announcing the move.  “We are confident in Steve’s passion and experience in the television industry will take our Vermont and NY based properties to new levels in the communities they serve.”

Doerr held the VP-GM post at WLNE for four years before being nudged out the door as Citadel Communications took over ownership of the ABC-affiliate this past spring.  Before joining WLNE, Doerr served as president and general manager of KXAS in Dallas.

“I’m honored to join Smith Media’s senior management team,” Doerr said.  “We’re committed to quality content and creating outstanding value for our investors, advertisers, viewers and employees.”