News and Events

Pat McAdaragh to retire as CEO; Ben Dold named President & CEO effective March 1, 2027

October 27, 2026 – Sioux Falls, SD: Midco announced that Pat McAdaragh will retire as Chief Executive Officer effective March 1, 2027. At that time, Ben Dold will become Midco’s President & CEO. 

McAdaragh’s decision to step down as CEO will mark a significant milestone in his extraordinary 46-year career with Midco. Since joining the company in 1981, he has served in nearly every area of the business and helped transform Midco from more than 300 stand-alone cable systems into a unified, next-generation connectivity provider serving more than 600 communities across five states. 

Under McAdaragh’s leadership, Midco launched Fiber Forward – a $500 million investment begun in 2021 that is now nearing completion – advanced the evolution of MidcoTV, launched Midco Mobile and grew Midco Sports. He also coined “Bestness,” a standard of excellence, care and continuous improvement that has become central to Midco’s culture. His commitment to community has strengthened the Midco Foundation and supported more vibrant, connected communities across the company’s footprint. 

Reflecting on his career earlier this year, McAdaragh said, “I joined Midco in 1981 and quickly fell in love – with the work itself, with the leadership who shaped me, with the teammates who walked alongside me and with the dynamic industries we were part of. Why have I stayed? Because that love has never left. It’s still here, even now.” 

Dold currently serves as Midco’s President and Chief Operating Officer and has worked closely with McAdaragh for many years. The transition reflects Midco’s long-term succession planning, the strength of its leadership team and the company’s continued momentum. 

McAdaragh will continue serving as CEO through February 28, 2027, working closely with Dold and Midco’s leadership team to ensure a smooth transition. Following his retirement as CEO, Pat will remain Chair and President of Midcontinent Media, Inc. (MMI), Midco’s parent company. MMI is co-owned by Pat and Steve Grosser, MMI Vice Chair and Executive Vice President. 

“Pat’s leadership has shaped Midco’s culture, strategy and commitment to customers and communities,” Dold said. “I am grateful for his mentorship and trust. It is an honor to build on the strong foundation he created and to lead our talented team as we continue investing, innovating and growing for the future.”