Steve Capus, former NBC News chief, to produce ‘CBS Evening News’

Steve Capus, who earned his stripes at NBC News as wingman for anchors Tom Brokaw and Brian Williams, soon will be piloting the cross-town rival “The CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley.”

CBS News announced Tuesday it had hired Capus, former president of NBC News for eight years, for a smaller position as the executive producer of the “CBS Evening News.” Capus begins at CBS on July 7.

Capus, 50, replaces Patricia Shevlin, who left her position at the end of March to switch to CBS’ flagship news magazine “60 Minutes.”

Capus, who will report to CBS New President David Rhodes, will also carry the title executive editor of CBS News and work with other news units.

“The ‘Evening News’ is an excellent broadcast, and we believe under Steve’s leadership it will get even better,” CBS News Chairman Jeff Fager said in a statement. “He is a real pro with an extraordinary record, and we are fortunate to have him joining us at CBS News.”

Capus is currently serving as executive in residence at IESE Business School, a role he will continue.

Capus resigned from his position at NBC News early last year.

While serving as president of NBC News, Capus was responsible for broadcast, digital, cable production and distribution as well as talent and international partnerships. The news programs turned in strong ratings during much of his tenure.

He served as executive producer of “NBC Nightly News” for four years. In that role he was credited with helping pave the way for a smooth handoff from Brokaw to Williams in 2004 and had a good working relationship with Williams at NBC.

However, NBC News’ “Today” show handoff from Meredith Vieira to Ann Curry and then to Savannah Guthrie was badly botched.

“Everyone at the ‘Evening News’ is excited about the opportunity to work with Steve,” Pelley said in the statement. “The breadth of his experience is unmatched. His principles, values and leadership make him an ideal fit.”

“CBS Evening News” has been gaining viewers but remains in third place. The show has been averaging nearly 7 million viewers a telecast, according to Nielsen numbers.

“NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams” averages 9 million viewers a night, while “World News with Diane Sawyer” on ABC draws about 8 million viewers a telecast.