GMG Radio hires Taylor to unlock opportunities

Taylor, who starts in September, will report to John Myers, chief

executive of GMG Radio. His position at Guardian News and Media has not
yet been filled.

Taylor joined The Observer in 1988 and has since held a number of senior
positions within GNM, also holding the position of general manager of
The Guardian.

In his new role he will work closely with Julian Carter, GMG Radio sales
director, across the division's rapidly expanding portfolio of stations,
which has grown from six to 11 in less than a year following the
acquisition of the Century and Saga stations in 2006.

Myers said Taylor would help the division "unlock the enormous
opportunities" across a "variety of different commercial platforms".

"It needed someone of great experience and stature, and clearly we have
found that person in Stuart," he said.

Andy Carter, who is currently acting managing director of Smooth in
London, will remain in the role until the end of the year before
returning full time to his original job as managing director of Real
Radio in Wales.