WBUR CEO Margaret Low to Resign in June 2027

The veteran executive will step down from her role as CEO of the Boston-based public radio station.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Media

WBUR CEO Margaret Low to Resign in June 2027

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Margaret Low, who became the first CEO of WBUR in January 2020, announced she will step down from her position in June 2027. She plans to transition to the station's Board of Directors in the fall of 2027.

Why it matters

Low's departure comes as the media organization navigates financial constraints following significant federal funding reductions. She described the move as a time to pass the baton after a long career in public media.

The federal funding cuts approved by Congress in July 2025 resulted in a $1.6 million annual loss for WBUR, representing 3% of the station's total budget. Low, 67, concludes a 45-year career in public media.

The players

Margaret Low

She is the CEO of WBUR and a long-time veteran of public media who previously served as senior vice president for news at NPR.

WBUR

This is a Boston-based public radio station that has been led by Margaret Low since 2020.

The Atlantic

This is a prominent publication where Low previously managed the live events division for five years.

NPR

This is a national public radio network where Low served as the senior vice president for news.

The details

In an email to staff, Low confirmed her upcoming exit and the board's decision to hire a search firm to identify her successor. Before leading WBUR, Low held senior roles at NPR and managed the live events division for The Atlantic for five years.

January 2020: Margaret Low became the first CEO of WBUR.
July 2025: Congress reduced federal funding for public media by $1.1 billion.
October 20, 2026: Low announced her plan to step down.
June 2027: Margaret Low will officially resign from her position.
Fall 2027: Low will join the WBUR Board of Directors.

Market Landscape

This leadership transition occurs as the public media landscape adapts to the financial impact of the July 2025 federal public media funding cuts. The move positions the station to potentially alter its long-term strategic direction under new executive leadership.

Listeners can expect continuity in programming as the station begins a lengthy leadership transition process. The change in executive management will likely influence how the station addresses the 3% annual budget reduction moving forward.

The takeaway

Executive leadership transitions in public radio are complex processes that often span several months to ensure organizational stability. Donors and listeners should monitor station communications for updates regarding the search for a new leader.