Dave Ongie will take over the duties as Managing Editor of the 36-year old business magazine from Scott Robertson, who has taken a new position as Director of Marketing and Communications of the United Way of Southwest Virginia. Ongie will start his new position Aug. 2 for the Business Journal’s September edition.
Co-Publisher Jeff Derby said, “When Derby Publishing purchased the Business Journal in 2012 Robertson was the Journal’s long-time editor. He remained with the Journal and has done an outstanding job for the publication.”
Publisher Bill Derby added, “Scott’s excellent interview and writing skills have kept the Business Journal in the forefront of business news in our region. We are sorry to lose Scott but excited for his new opportunities. He will be a real asset to The United Way and people of Southwest Virginia.”
In addition to Ongie’s new role he will continue as editor of the national award-winning Johnson City News & Neighbor.
Ongie said, “I’m excited to be taking on the responsibility of serving as the Managing Editor of The Business Journal of Tri-Cities TN/VA. I have enjoyed writing stories for the Business Journal over the past four years and look forward to the challenge of continuing the legacy of excellence Scott has established during his time with the publication.”
Robertson added, “I look forward to watching the Business Journal brand grow as Dave takes over as managing editor. He is an award-winning journalist, but more importantly, he is a good man who cares deeply about the future of the region.
“It’s been my great honor to serve the business community in this role for the last 15 years, and I can’t wait to see how Dave brings new life to the Journal’s print and digital products.”
Ongie is from Johnson City and graduated from Science Hill High School and East Tennessee State University with a degree in English and a concentration in Mass Communications. He has 16 years of experience as a journalist having worked for the Kingsport Times News and later the Johnson City Press.
His wife Alissa works for the State of Tennessee, and his daughter, Fiona is entering sixth grade at Boones Creek School.
