Bellini Upped Into The Corner Office
• After a successful 30-year radio career, RAMP has learned that Milwaukee Radio Group President/GM Annmarie Topel is retiring — and she’s rightly passing the baton of command over to another longtime cluster vet — Bob Bellini, the PD of Classic Rock 96.5 WKLH (Milwaukee’s Hometown Rock) for the past 31 years, has been promoted to GM of the five-station group.
Commenting on his elevation to the corner office, Mr. Bellini (as we feel we must call him now) said, “A 31-year tenure in programming and operations here in Milwaukee for Saga Communications certainly underscores what an amazing company this is. I’d like to thank our President/CEO Ed Christian for his confidence in me, as well as his support and leadership through the years. Also, my sincere appreciation to SVP of Operations Chris Forgy for his guidance, our VP of Programming Bob Lawrence for his great assistance, and of course, to our departing President/GM Annmarie Topel whose brilliant mentoring and leadership has prepared me for this position.”
While Ms. Topel will remain in the building to aid in the managerial transition for the next month, Bellini’s first priority is to hire his own replacement. “This is a rare opportunity (did I mention 31 years?) to work with a talented staff and join an outstanding broadcast company,” he said. “Do you love to create unique, engaging imaging? Is coaching talent one of your greatest strengths? Do you have a track record of creating buzz with unique promotions and programming ideas? If so, please send your materials to me ASAP at bbellini@wklh.com, and my shoes could be yours to fill.” Saga is an EOE. No calls please.
