Emap Signs New Programme Boss With Kiss
Emap has appointed Andrew Jeffries as the new programme director for its Kiss radio stations, a role which will see the new output boss take control of the network’s national and local content, building on his past success with both digital and FM incarnation’s of Emap’s Kerrang!
Having launched Kerrang 105.2 in June 2004, Jeffries is currently in charge of the station’s programming, as well as that of its national digital counterpart, Kerrang Radio. His new role will see him in charge of programming for Kiss 100, the network’s London flagship station, as well as Kiss across the UK, broadcast via DAB, cable, satellite, Freeview and online.
Commenting on his appointment, Jeffries said: “When Kiss 100 started as a pirate station in 1985, no-one could have predicted that it would be celebrating its 20th anniversary as one of the biggest national radio brands in the UK. Thanks to market leading distribution via digital, cable, satellite and online, listeners around the UK can now tune into the unique sound of dance music that can only be provided by Kiss.”
He added: “The challenge now is to continue to secure Kiss’ position as the number one youth radio brand and to continue introducing new and loyal listeners across the UK. We can do this by imaginative programming by day and the very best of specialist programming by night.”
Jeffires will be overseen by Shaun Gregory, Emap’s managing director of national radio brands. He said: “Andrew is one of the top radio programmers in the UK with a highly successful track record in youth radio. He has done an amazing job with Kerrang! 105.2 and in growing the national Kerrang! Radio network. His huge knowledge of creating exciting programming that delivers will be an invaluable addition to the Kiss team.”
Having previously held positions with both Capital and Chrysalis, Jeffries relocated to the West Midlands from Australia to launch Kerrang! 105.2 last year. He will take up his new role on 1 June, replacing Simon Long who is joining Somethin’ Else.
Kiss saw its total weekly reach dip by 8.14% year on year in the three months to March 2005. Moreover, Kiss 100 saw its weekly reach dip by 12.9% in the same period, a situation which Jeffries will be keen to address as his takes up his new post with the station.
Emap has embarked on a series of high-profile promotions for the station in recent months, including its largest advertising push in three years, costing £1.5 million and promoting the station’s unique brand message (see Emap Unveils Massive Advertising Push For Kiss).
More recently, Kiss has attempted to align itself with live music events, offering listeners the first chances to purchase tour tickets for events such as R’n’B superstar Nelly’s UK tour in March (see Kiss Signed For Cross Media Nelly Promotion).
Emap: 01733 568 900 www.emap.co.uk