Hazlitt replaces Bernard at struggling GCap

Source: Exec Digital UK

Date :21/12/2007 11:12:23

Fru Hazlitt has been named as struggling GCap's new chief executive and will be promoted with immediate effect.

Ms Hazlitt, previously chief executive of Virgin Radio, was hired earlier this year as managing director GCap London, overseeing the flagship station Capital, which had been losing market share to its rivals.

She will reportedly wait until next year to unveil her plans to breathe life into the UK's largest commercial radio operator.

Ms Hazlitt, 44, was widely expected to be handed the top job at GCap following the resignation of Ralph Bernard in November. She took up the position yesterday with Mr Bernard leaving the company immediately.

Mr Bernard led the merger of GWR and Capital in 2005, and, despite investing in its digital and online radio business, the performance of the core radio business has proved disappointing.

2008 plans

The operator has struggled to maintain its audience share, most notably at London station Capital Radio, while advertising growth has also stagnated.

Ms Hazlitt said: "We have great people, and both locally and nationally we have historic brand equity and a status that will enable us to win within the multi-platform environment. I look forward to presenting our plans in early 2008."

GCap chairman Richard Eyre said: "I am delighted to appoint Fru as GCap's new chief executive.

"She has a wealth of experience and is absolutely the right person to lead the company at such an important time for the radio industry.

"Her breadth of experience in radio and digital media is unparalleled as is her track record in building brands and managing content across analogue and digital media. I am very much looking forward to working with her."

December 12, 2007