Entercom remains focused on working through the process to complete its acquisition of CBS Radio, forming one of the most powerful media companies in the country. Although a merger of this magnitude may require extra time and patience, it isn’t stopping David Field from constructing a new management team to lead his new company forward.
There are a number of different individuals who will be involved in various aspects of the company, but specifically as it pertains to the sports format, here’s what you need to know.
Moving forward, Pat Paxton will assume the role of President of Programming. Paxton has had a strong influence on the growth of Entercom’s programming, having led the company’s efforts since 20001. Prior to advancing up the corporate ladder, Paxton held stints as Entercom’s Director of AC and CHR programming and as Operations Manager for Star in Boston. He’s also enjoyed stints as National Program Director for Nationwide Communications, program director of WOMX in Orlando and KHMX in Houston, Weather anchor for KCAU-TV (ABC affiliate) in Sioux City, and as a consultant for Zapoleon Media Strategies. His primary focus will be to oversee the music brands but he’s expected to be included in all company programming matters.
Chris Olivero, who’s been a mainstay of CBS Radio’s corporate team, will also be part of the new management staff, earning the title of Executive Vice President of Programming. During Olivero’s time at CBS he led the content development and strategy for all of CBS’ stations, and oversaw the company’s research and national concert initiatives. Chris was a big proponent for launching the CBS Sports Radio Network and handled recruiting and negotiating contracts for CBS Radio’s marquee personalities across all formats. Under his watch CBS Radio has enjoyed great success, especially in the sports format. Olivero’s new role includes overseeing all News/Talk/Sports programming.
Additionally, Mike Dee has taken the reigns as the company’s President of Sports. Dee joined the management team in early May and has been charged with helping the company increase its revenue development from national sales and marketing programs. Entercom is hoping Dee’s experience as a sports executive serves them well with creating new platform opportunities, expanding sports distribution, and elevating the company’s position as a leading sports media partner.
The full list of Entercom’s new management team is listed below:
- David Field, Chief Executive Officer
- Weezie Kramer, Chief Operating Officer
- Pat Paxton, President of Programming
- Chris Oliviero, Executive Vice President of Programming
- Mike Dee, President of Sports
- Rich Schmaeling, Chief Financial Officer
- Ruth Gaviria, Chief Marketing Officer
- Bob Philips, Chief Revenue Officer
- JD Crowley, Executive Vice President of Digital
- Michael Doyle, Regional President and President of Sales Operations
- Andrew Sutor, Senior Vice President and General Counsel
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
