iHeartMedia is elevating longtime executive Ann Marie Licata to CEO of its Multiplatform Group, the company’s largest operating segment, as it continues to align its leadership around growth across broadcast, digital, and data-driven platforms.
Licata, who previously served as President of the Markets Group & Sales Operations, will now oversee a broad portfolio that includes the company’s Markets Group, its national radio networks, live events business, enterprise development, and advanced advertising and data capabilities.
The Multiplatform Group encompasses more than 860 local broadcast radio stations across the U.S., along with major live events and sponsorships, network operations including Premiere Networks and Total Traffic and Weather Network, and the company’s Enterprise Business Development unit.
At the same time, iHeartMedia announced the promotion of Bernie Weiss to President of the Markets Group. In the role, Weiss will oversee operations across the company’s 160 markets. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of the Markets Group.
The company’s other divisions remain unchanged, with Conal Byrne continuing as CEO of the Digital Audio Group and Mark Gray leading the Audio and Media Services Group.
Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman said Licata’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as the company looks to further integrate its traditional broadcast assets with digital platforms and advanced advertising tools.
“In addition to helping businesses and brands grow effectively and efficiently, the Multiplatform Group has been an important engine for developing new businesses, including podcasting and the iHeartRadio digital service, as well as our live events and awards shows,” Pittman said. “We see significant opportunity ahead as we continue moving broadcast radio into the digital buying world through data services and programmatic platforms.”
President and COO Rich Bressler added that the leadership move reflects the company’s broader strategy to leverage its diversified structure across broadcast, digital audio, and services.
“We have a diversified business at iHeart, with our Multiplatform Group, the Digital Audio Group and the Audio and Media Services Group, and we’re very pleased that Ann Marie has taken on the responsibility for the Multiplatform Group at such an important time for the company,” Bressler said.
Under the new structure, Julie Donohue, President of the Enterprise Development Group, and Julie Talbott, President of Premiere Networks, will report directly to Licata.