B98.5 has promoted Abby Jessen to Director of Branding and Programming. The Atlanta native brings extensive programming, management, and on-air experience to the role.
What We Know: Jessen will lead B98.5’s programming, brand strategy, and audience growth, effective immediately. She’ll also continue hosting middays on the Atlanta adult contemporary station. Jessen began her career with Cox Media Group in Athens, Georgia, where she programmed WGAU and 103.7 Chuck FM. She also anchored Saturday news for 95.5 WSB. Later, she spent three years in Tulsa as Director of Branding and Programming for Mix 96.5, where she also hosted afternoons. Jessen subsequently returned to Atlanta as Assistant Director of Branding and Programming and a midday host on B98.5. In addition, she hosts on Easy 102.9 in Jacksonville, 106.1 WNGC in Athens, and Hits 105.3 in San Antonio. An Atlanta native and University of Georgia graduate, Jessen has spent more than a decade with CMG.
What They Said: “I’m incredibly grateful to the mentors, teammates, friends and my wonderful husband who have supported me throughout my career. I grew up listening to B98.5, so it is truly a privilege to continue working with this amazing team to serve our listeners and the community we call home.” -Abby Jessen
“Abby’s promotion to B98.5 Director of Branding and Programming is incredibly well deserved. Throughout more than a decade with CMG, she has continued to grow as a leader and has brought creativity, passion and a deep commitment to every role she has held. Since returning to Atlanta, Abby’s leadership and guidance have helped strengthen B98.5’s position as a leading adult contemporary brand. I’m excited to see how her vision and creativity take B98.5 to even greater heights.” -Cox Media Group Atlanta Director of Operations and Programming Jules Riley
What Remains Unclear: CMG hasn’t announced any changes to B98.5’s on-air lineup following Jessen’s promotion. The company also hasn’t detailed any specific programming initiatives or audience growth targets under her leadership.
What It Means: Jessen’s promotion puts an experienced programmer in charge of a familiar Atlanta brand. Her background spans multiple markets and formats, while her existing relationship with B98.5 gives her an understanding of its listeners. By retaining her midday shift, she’ll continue connecting with the audience while overseeing the station’s broader programming and brand strategy.
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