GWR Appoints Former Carat Director As Research Head

Commercial radio giant GWR has appointed James Smythe, former associate director of Carat Insight, as its new group head of research, replacing Rupert Steele, who is leaving to pursue consultancy work.

Smythe will join GWR on 23 August, working across the radio group’s entire range of brands, which incluide Classic FM, The Mix network and digital radio stations such as Planet Rock and Core.

The research head brings years of experience to his new position having joined Carat Insight in 2000, previously holding responsibility for managing Aegis Media’s flagship Consumer Connection Study. Smythe was also project manager for the Radio Advertising Bureau.

Commenting on the appointment, GWR managing director Jim Cruickshank, said: “Attracting someone of James’ calibre is essential as research will play a fundamental role in shaping GWR’s strategy and businesses for the future.”

Smythe added: “Commercial radio has entered a complex new era, which presents really exciting consumer and media insight challenges for a group with such ambition. I am really looking forward to being a part of GWR’s future success in this new market environment.”

Earlier this year GWR announced a massive surge in pre-tax profits, doubling to £17.1 million for the year as advertising revenues grew by 8.4% to £125.6 million outperforming the radio industry increase of 7.8%. The company attributed the rise to the implementation of new inventory control systems and new airtime pricing systems (see GWR Outperforms Radio Industry As Profits Double).

GWR Group: 020 7284 3000 www.gwrgroup.com

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