Iliad Acquires Montana Radio Company
• Idaho-based Iliad Media Group Holdings Inc., known for its innovative approach to employee empowerment through its 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), announced the acquisition of The Montana Radio Company and its nine radio stations serving Helena, MT. This strategic move expands Iliad’s existing portfolio of 14 stations and enhances job security and career longevity for all employees involved. This union signifies a robust future for radio broadcasting in the region, rooted in the principle that employees are not just staff, but owners of their workplace and future.
Darrell Calton, President & CEO of Iliad Media Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the merger, stating, “We are excited to welcome The Montana Radio Company into the Iliad family. Our shared values of employee ownership and community-focused broadcasting make this merging of radio cultures so promising.”
Kevin Terry, CEO of The Montana Radio Company, added, “Joining forces with Iliad Media Group aligns perfectly with our vision of fostering a workplace where employees have a stake in the company’s success. This move ensures that our team in Montana will enjoy not only job security but also pride in ownership.”
The transition will see The Montana Radio Company employees becoming part of Iliad’s ESOP, reflecting Iliad’s commitment to shared success and employee welfare. This model has proven successful in Iliad’s operations in Boise and Twin Falls, ID, where it has been praised for creating a motivated and dedicated workforce. The Montana Radio Company will retain its current management structure and iconic branding while maintaining local ownership in Helena through its employees.
The Montana Radio Company’s Helena properties include New Country KIMO-FM (The Mighty Mo 107FM), Mainstream Country KBLL-FM (99.5 The Bull), Top 40 KMXM (Mix 102.3), AC 105.3 KMTX, Classic Rock KZMT (Z101), News-Talk KCAP-950 AM/95.9 FM, Adult Hits 104.5 Dave FM (KIMO-HD2), Classic Hits Rewind 94.9 (KIMO-HD3), and Active Rock Rock 96.3 (KIMO-HD4).
