Ciaran Cunningham has been appointed CEO of Radiocentre Ireland.
Radiocentre Ireland is a new initiative launched by Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) and RTÉ aimed at promoting radio as a marketing medium.
John Purcell, Chair of Radiocentre Ireland, said the initiative is a “hugely exciting project which sees all Ireland’s radio operators coming together to promote the unbeatable reach and the unique relationships enjoyed by Irish radio with our millions of listeners.”
“Ciaran brings tremendous media experience, passion for radio and a wealth of insights, ideas and creativity to the role,” he said.
“We’re delighted to have him at the helm as we set out on our mission to spread the good news about Irish radio.”
Mr Purcell said new formats and technologies present many exciting opportunities for further growth and development of the Irish radio landscape – and Radiocentre Ireland looks forward to playing a leading role in developing those opportunities.
“The most recent JNLR Research shows that 3,175,000 adults listen to Irish radio stations every day, with an average of 1,049,000 tuning in on any given quarter hour during primetime hours,” he said.
“Irish radio enjoys amazing relationships with listeners across a variety of platforms and commands a unique level of trust among audiences of all kinds.
“As Chief Executive of Radiocentre Ireland, Ciaran will play a key role in helping advertisers, marketeers and agencies further unlock the true power of Irish radio.”
Mr Cunningham takes over 30 years’ experience in the marketing and media agency sector into the new role.
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of Chief Executive of Radiocentre Ireland,” he said.
“My ambition is to use my experience to help shape the radio sector for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“Radio, in all its forms, is incredibly popular with Irish people. It is also a very powerful medium for advertisers to grow their brands and services and I will be seeking to make radio an absolutely essential choice for advertisers into the future.”
Radiocentre Ireland was established by IBI and RTÉ last summer. Its board is managed by three representatives from RTÉ and three from IBI – the organisation representing Ireland’s 34 independent radio stations.