Cumulus Media announces that it has promoted veteran radio programmer Leslie Whittle as Vice President, Hot AC Formats. In her new role, Whittle will serve as a corporate programming resource for the company’s Hot AC formatted stations across the U.S. Whittle continues in her role as Program Director of KRBE/Houston.
Whittle started her radio career at KHFI/Austin, where she ultimately became PD. She joined KRBE in 2000 as APD and was named PD for the station in 2006. Whittle has been honored for her work with awards including a Marconi Award for CHR Station of the Year 2017 and The Conclave’s Major Market Station of the Year 2018.
Brian Philips, EVP of Content and Audience for Cumulus Media, said, “With great strategy and spirit, Leslie has built a Cumulus CHR powerhouse in Houston. She understands all nuances of contemporary music radio, and we are fortunate to enlist her as VP of our Hot AC formats. Her name has hit every list of the ‘Best PDs in America,’ and we are glad to spread Leslie’s brainpower and influence through our important Hot AC stations.”
Whittle said, “I’m honored to have this opportunity and look forward to working with these amazing programmers and their teams, along with the talented people at Westwood One. A huge ‘thank you’ to Brian Philips for believing I have what it takes to succeed in this new role, and to Mike McVay for his guidance over the years. Also, a big high five to our team here at KRBE led by Alex Cadelago and Dan Bennett for allowing me to take on these additional duties as we continue to do great things in Houston!”