Cumulus Ups Hanson, Extends Thomas

Cumulus Media has promoted Troy Hanson to the newly created position of Vice President of Operations for its four-station group in Chicago. Hanson will remain PD of Alternative 101 WKQX and Corporate Vice President, Programming, Rock Formats. Concurrently, it was announced that the company has inked a multi-year contract extension with Brian Thomas, PD of Classic Hits WLS-FM. 

Hanson (left) joined Cumulus in 2013 as Corporate Program Director, Rock Formats and PD of WNNX (Rock 100.5)/Atlanta. He earned the transfer to Chicago in June 2015. Before joining Cumulus, Hanson was Operations Manager for Cromwell Radio Group in Nashville. A 27-year programming professional, Hanson has held various programming positions at WRIF/Detroit and WZTA & WBGG/Miami, Duluth, MN; Saginaw, MI; Milwaukee and Des Moines, IA.

Thomas (left) has programmed WLS-FM since July of 2015. He also serves as Corporate Program Director for the Country format, and VP of Programming, Classic Hits. Thomas previously programmed sister WNSH (NASH FM 94.7)/New York. Prior to joining Cumulus in April 2014, Thomas worked for CBS Radio as VP of Classic Hits Programming and VP of Programming for CBS Radio Tampa and PD of Country WQYK and Classic Hits WRBQ. Before that he programmed WCBS-FM and WWFS (Fresh 102.7)/New York.

Peter Bowen, VP/Market Manager, Cumulus Media Chicago, said, “I’m thrilled to have Troy and Brian returning to Cumulus Chicago for years to come. They have both proven time and time again to be leaders and winners in our industry.” Hanson commented, “To be around these storied, iconic brands and the incredibly talented staffs that make each station hum is just awe inspiring. Many thanks to Dave Milner, Mike McVay and Peter Bowen for the tremendous opportunity.” Thomas remarked, “I’m loving my hometown of Chicago and proud we’ve turned WLS-FM into a top 10 radio station. I’m now looking forward to growing it even more in the years ahead. I appreciate the continued support from Cumulus leadership.”