Mike Rosenberg, president and general manager of Hawaii ABC affiliate KITV, will retire from his 40-year career in broadcasting at the end of the year.

His career began at NBC and he joined ABC in 1972. Rosenberg, 63, has led KITV for 15 years after a decade at KHON.

Mike Rosenberg:

He began his career at NBC before join- ng ABC in 1972.

Among other community activities, he is president of the Hawaii Broadcasters Association, a director of Manoa Valley Theatre and a vice president of the national Muscular Dystrophy Association. He also helped oversee Hawaii’s first-in-the-nation switch from analog TV broadcasting to digital.

"During his time at KITV the station has distinguished itself in its outstanding news and community service work," said David Barrett, president and chief executive officer of parent company Hearst Television.

"Mike is a true local broadcaster."

While Rosenberg doubts there will be a "right time to retire," he believes the station is well positioned for the future.

An avid traveler, his plans include "burn(ing) through my money rather than leaving it all to my heirs," he laughed.