A major leadership transition is underway at iHeartMedia as longtime executive Hartley Adkins announces his retirement, effective at the end of the summer. Adkins, who most recently served as President of the iHeartMarkets Group, wraps up a 32-year run with the company marked by deep operational experience and industry-wide influence.
In a memo to staff, Chairman/CEO Bob Pittman and President/COO/CFO Rich Bressler called Adkins “an important part of this company in every role he’s held,” noting his journey from a sales position in Tampa in 1993 to the top ranks of the organization. “His wisdom, knowledge, and urgency in everything he does will be missed,” they wrote, adding that “on a personal level, we will miss working with him day to day.”
Adkins played a pivotal role in guiding the Markets Group through a digital transformation, expanding iHeart’s platform beyond broadcast into podcasting, streaming, social media, and events. Under his leadership, the group developed new data-driven sales strategies and case studies aimed at better demonstrating the impact of iHeart’s multi-platform offerings.
Beyond his internal roles, Adkins has served as a key figure representing the company and the industry at large, holding leadership positions with the NAB, RAB, and acting as iHeart’s liaison to other radio organizations.
While stepping away from his day-to-day responsibilities, Adkins isn’t cutting ties completely. He will stay on as a Strategic Advisor, working with iHeart on special projects, representing the company within industry organizations, and advising on growth and innovation initiatives. He has also been working closely with Pittman and Bressler on a succession plan to ensure a smooth transition.
“We know the time he’ll be able to spend with his family is very special, and we wish him well,” Pittman and Bressler wrote. They also extended thanks to Adkins’ wife, Kelly, for her support of his “24/7 commitment” to the company over the years.