Urban One’s Radio One division has announced several leadership changes across its major market operations. These appointments aim to strengthen local stations and highlight the company's focus on developing internal talent. The shifts involve promotions and new assignments for key personnel in Washington D.C., Cleveland, Richmond, Raleigh, Cincinnati, and Columbus.
Key Takeaways
- Radio One implemented leadership changes in six major markets.
- A Plus appointed Operations Manager for Washington D.C. stations.
- Matt Myers now Operations Manager in Cleveland.
- Katt D (Erwin Hill) takes over as Operations Manager in Richmond.
- Melissa Wade and Big Mo received Program Director promotions in Raleigh.
- DJ Supreme, DJ Nailz, and Robyn Simone elevated to Program Director roles.
Leadership Appointments in Major Markets
Radio One, a division of Urban One, has made significant leadership adjustments. These changes affect several key markets where the company operates. The goal is to enhance operational efficiency and improve the listener experience at the local level. The company has moved experienced individuals into new roles.
In Washington, D.C., a major market for Radio One, A Plus has been named Operations Manager. This role involves overseeing a group of prominent stations. These include WKYS, WMMJ, WPRS, WOL, and WYCB. Before this promotion, A Plus served as Operations Manager in Cleveland, gaining valuable experience there.
Fact File: Urban One
Urban One, Inc. is one of the largest diversified media companies in the United States. It is primarily focused on serving the African-American community. The company owns and operates radio stations, television networks, and digital platforms. Radio One is its radio broadcasting division.
Matt Myers will now lead operations in Cleveland. He takes on the role of Operations Manager for Radio One Cleveland. His responsibilities cover stations such as WENZ, WZAK, WERE, and WJMO. Myers previously held a similar position in Richmond, where he managed local station operations effectively.
Following Myers' move, Katt D (Erwin Hill) steps into the Operations Manager position for Radio One Richmond. This cluster includes WCDX, WKJS, WXGI, and WPZZ. Hill brings experience from his previous role as Operations Manager in Raleigh, further demonstrating internal talent mobility within the company.
Promotions in Raleigh and Beyond
Raleigh, North Carolina, also saw important personnel changes. Melissa Wade has been promoted to Program Director of WFXC and WNNL. Her advancement reflects her dedication and expertise within the company. This promotion strengthens the programming leadership in the Raleigh market.
Joining the Raleigh cluster is Big Mo, who assumes the role of Program Director for WQOK. These additions are part of Radio One's strategy to boost its programming quality and local engagement. The company aims to provide diverse and compelling content to its listeners.
"These leadership changes reflect the incredible depth of talent within Radio One," stated Colby Colb, Senior VP of Programming. "We are proud to promote from within and offer new opportunities to our dedicated team members."
Further promotions occurred in other key markets. DJ Supreme has been elevated to Program Director of WIZF in Cincinnati. Similarly, DJ Nailz is now the Program Director of WCKX in Columbus. These individuals moved up from Assistant Program Director roles, showcasing the company's commitment to career progression.
Also in Columbus, APD Robyn Simone has been promoted to Program Director of WXMG. This series of internal advancements highlights Radio One's strategy to nurture and promote its existing talent pool. The company believes in recognizing and rewarding performance.
Strategic Focus on Excellence and Innovation
These leadership adjustments are more than just personnel shifts. They represent a strategic move by Urban One's Audio Division. The focus is on operational excellence, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation across all radio brands. The goal is to enhance the overall listener experience.
Eddie Harrell, Jr., Co-President of Urban One’s Audio Division, emphasized the importance of these appointments. He noted that they underscore the company's commitment to strengthening its local impact. Local radio remains a vital part of community connection and information dissemination.
The Role of Local Radio
Local radio stations play a crucial role in communities. They provide local news, weather updates, and emergency information. They also offer entertainment tailored to local tastes and serve as platforms for community engagement. Strong local leadership is essential for these stations to thrive and connect with their audiences effectively.
The promotions of several Assistant Program Directors to Program Director roles are particularly notable. This indicates a robust internal development program. It suggests that the company invests in training its staff and prepares them for higher leadership responsibilities. This approach ensures continuity and a deep understanding of the company's values and objectives.
Radio One's emphasis on local impact means that each market's specific needs are considered. The new Operations Managers and Program Directors are expected to bring fresh perspectives while maintaining the established connection with their respective communities. This balance is key to successful local broadcasting.
The company continues to adapt to the evolving media landscape. While digital platforms grow, traditional radio remains a powerful medium. By investing in strong local leadership, Radio One aims to keep its stations relevant and engaging for millions of listeners. The changes signal a proactive approach to maintaining market leadership and listener loyalty.
This organizational restructuring is expected to streamline decision-making processes. It should also improve coordination between programming and operational teams. Ultimately, these moves aim to ensure that Radio One stations deliver high-quality content and a consistent listening experience across all their markets.