Magic Appoints New MD To Chase Capital For Top Spot

Radio giant, Emap, has appointed Andria Vidler as the new managing director of its Magic network, taking responsibility for Magic 105.4 in London, as well as the brand’s national radio network, and charged with taking the top spot in the capital.

The new role will see Vidler assume responsibility for maximising performance and profitability across the whole network, working closely with Emap Advertising to maximise revenue across the brand, and with programmers to ensure continued momentum for listeners both in London and across the UK.

One of the new MD’s key targets will be securing Magic the top spot on the capital, a position which now looks tantalisingly close, following the station’s strong performance in the recent RAJAR results. Magic 105.4 now commands a 6.1% share of listening in London, just 0.1% behind market leading Capital 95.8 FM.

In addition, Vidler will be charged with growing Magic into a truly national brand, aiming to compete more closely with the BBC and provide advertisers with a “new and exciting radio environment”.

The new network boss has plenty of experience to help achieve Magic’s goals, having previously worked as MD for Capital Radio in London and the Capital FM Network, achieving share levels not since repeated.

Prior to her stint with Capital, Vidler worked for the BBC where, over a six-year period, she held a number of strategic marketing and communications positions at BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC News and BBC Sport.

Her new role will see her report to Shaun Gregory, Emap Performance’s managing director of national radio brands. Commenting on the appointment, he said: “Our goal is to build a market-leading station in London as the flagship of a strong, national commercial radio network and to sustain that position over time with a well defined service, a great brand and a fantastic creative team.

“We are delighted to welcome Andria to Emap. Her experience of growing a market leading station in London and of building national brands will be invaluable to our business.”

Vidler added: “Of all the roles in radio, the Magic MD role is the most exciting and has the greatest potential both in London and in further strengthening its national proposition. I’m looking forward to joining Magic’s talented team, working with Richard Park to build on recent successes.

In addition to her role as Magic’s MD, Vidler will sit on Emap’s national radio executive board, which is responsible for growing Emap Performance’s national radio brands.

Emap: 01733 568 900 www.emap.co.uk

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