Harrison confirmed as Radio Centre chief executive

by Mark Banham, Brand Republic 26-May-06, 11:20

LONDON - Andrew Harrison, the former Nestle Rowntree marketing director and Muller managing director, has been confirmed as the first chief executive of merged radio body, The RadioCentre.

Harrison is believed to have been offered the role last week and has been mulling over the decision to take the post.

As chief executive of The RadioCentre, Harrison will be charged with forging a single vision for the future of commercial radio in the UK, promoting the benefits of the medium to broadcasters, advertisers and listeners.

Harrison said: "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the RadioCentre team at this important time in the development of UK commercial radio. Our groundbreaking plan to unite in one new organisation -- The RadioCentre -- all the well-established strengths of our five separate support bodies will create a forward-looking team and a single joined-up approach for commercial radio. This will benefit our advertisers, listeners, agency partners and broadcasters, as we work together to build revenue and ratings growth".

Paul Brown, chairman of the RadioCentre said: "The RadioCentre is delighted to have recruited a CEO of Andrew's background, experience and drive. I am confident that he will lead the centre's talented and dedicated team to new heights and, in the process, assist commercial radio towards revenue and ratings growth."

Harrison was also linked with the chief executive role at TV marketing body Thinkbox earlier this year missing out to PHD Group chairman Tess Alps.

He was understood to have been shortlisted for the role along with Martin Bowley, former chief executive of Carlton TV Sales and now head of media at headhunters Kendall Tarrant.

Harrison is expected to take up the role on October 1.

If you have an opinion on this or any other issue raised on Brand Republic, join the debate in the Forum.