The chief executive officer of one of the leading privately held network-affiliated television station groups has resigned after less than a year on the job.

The resignation of Tony Cassara, CEO of Young Broadcasting LLC, was effective March 13. The company announced the move Thursday.

Said Thomas Sullivan, chairman of the Board of Directors: "Tony has advised us that he would like to pursue interests outside of Young Broadcasting, including the ownership of other broadcasting stations. Accordingly, Tony has tendered his resignation as chief executive officer and member of the Board of Directors, effective March 13, 2012. We wish Tony well in his new endeavors."

Cassara said in a statement: “I have enjoyed very much my association with Young Broadcasting and I am proud of what we were able to accomplish during my time there."

The company noted that Deb McDermott will continue to be responsible for day-to-day operations as president of Young Broadcasting.

Young owns 10 television stations, including five ABC affiliates and three CBS affiliates.