Virgin Radio Chief Executive Steps Down
Virgin Radio chief executive, John Pearson, has announced his intention to step down next year in an attempt to re-address his work-life balance after more than a decade at the radio station.
Pearson, who has spent the last four and a half years at the helm of Scottish Media Group’s radio division, will stay on in his current position until a successor is appointed. He plans to step down in April 2005 to spend more time with his family.
Commenting on his decision to depart, he said: “This is a lifestyle choice, I’d like a more flexible work-life balance and the ability to take more time off. I leave the station with a strong management team and in a great position entering a digital radio world. I’ve really enjoyed working for SMG. I’ll miss radio, the people and the fun but look forward to some great new challenges.”
Pearson joined Virgin Radio as sales director following its launch in 1992. He then moved on to become managing director in 1995 and was appointed to the position of chief executive in January 2000 following Scottish Media Group’s acquisition of Ginger Media Group for £225 million (see Scottish Media Gets Regulator’s Approval For Ginger Takeover).
SMG chief executive, Andrew Flanagan, said: “John is an excellent businessman and a dynamic leader. I’d love him to stay but respect his reasons for leaving. It’s been a pleasure to work with him. SMG will miss him, as will all the colleagues and friends who have worked alongside him over the years.”
Pearson has been an outspoken figure in the radio industry over the last few years and recently called on agencies, advertisers and media owners to work together to create a single-source planning and buying tool for all broadcast media. He proposed the creation of a Broadcast Futures Group that would bring the industry together to focus on a blueprint for the creation of a single, joint audience measurement system (see Virgin Chief Calls For Single Source Planning Tool).
Virgin Radio: 020 7434 1215 www.virginradio.co.uk
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