Brands controlled?
Magic 105.4 and Kiss 100.
What are your main priorities over the next 12 months?
To build on the successes of the latest Rajar results. Magic London has been number one for two years and Kiss has delivered its highest reach over the day. We hope to continue to drive reach for both stations.
Agencies used?
Starcom for media, St Luke's for creative, Inferno for Kiss creative and Braben for PR.
What are the main criteria you use when selecting an agency?
The agency needs to have an instinctive understanding of radio and the role it plays in listeners' lives. It also needs to be as commercially minded and results-focused as possible. I'm not overly interested in agencies that win awards, only in campaigns that deliver genuine results.
Advice to agencies operating in an economic downturn?
Be prepared to be negotiated down on fees. All clients are operating under the same financial pressures, so those financial strains need to be passed on. Work closely, proactively and collaboratively with the client to find better ways to deliver against targets.
What role will media play in positioning the company in 2009/10?
Media will play an important role in 2010 - it's the primary driver of awareness and radio stations need awareness to bring in new listeners.
How has your career background prepared you for your current role?
I was head of marketing at Heart 106.2, then marketing director for five years. I have also worked in magazine marketing, including Closer and InStyle, and in outdoor at JCDecaux. All these roles have given me a broad understanding and have taught me how to work in fast-moving, ever-evolving environments.
Which medium can't you live without?
Radio. It accompanies me throughout my day - wakes me up in the morning, keeps me going during the day and calms me down in the evening.
