Fred Jacobs will step down as president of Jacobs Media at the end of 2026. His brother, Paul Jacobs, will succeed him as the company shifts its leadership structure.
What We Know: Fred Jacobs will transition to Chairman of Jacobs Media beginning in 2027. In the new role, he’ll focus on company strategy, digital revenue initiatives, and select client relationships. Meanwhile, Paul Jacobs will assume the presidency and oversee the company’s next chapter. Fred will also remain involved with the company’s Techsurveys, including their design and implementation. Additionally, Jacobs Media plans to continue its research covering commercial, public, and Christian music radio. Registration for Techsurvey 2027, conducted in collaboration with Inside Radio, opens this week. The study will field in January and February and mark the company’s 22nd survey of commercial radio listeners.
What They Said: “I’ve been thinking about this for a couple of years now, and I’m ready for a change. I appreciate all the opportunities I’ve had over the years, and the people, organizations, and companies we’ve worked for and collaborated with. From the early days of the company and the birth of the Classic Rock format to our focus on technology in the 2000s, it’s been quite a journey … It’s been an amazing run, and I’m feeling nothing but gratitude. Starting next year, my day-to-day life will change, but I’ll still be reading the trades, checking the ratings, offering suggestions to Paul, talking strategy with select clients, giving the occasional speech or presentation, and working on the Techsurveys. But after nearly 4 million miles on Delta (mostly domestic), it’s time.” -Fred Jacobs
What Remains Unclear: Paul Jacobs indicated the company is still working through additional organizational changes. However, he confirmed that Director of Digital Revenue Chris Brunt and Bill Jacobs will remain in their current positions.
What It Means: The transition marks a significant leadership change for Jacobs Media after decades under Fred Jacobs. He founded the company and helped introduce initiatives including jacapps, the Techsurveys, and the DASH Conferences. Additionally, Fred entered the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018 and received the NAB National Radio Award alongside Paul in 2022. His move into the chairman role allows him to remain connected to the industry while Paul leads the company’s focus on digital transformation and revenue growth.
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