WTOP’s Joel Oxley Announces Retirement
• UPDATED: After a remarkable 35-year stretch with Hubbard’s All-News behemoth 103.5 WTOP/Washington, DC, the last 28 in the top seat, President/GM Joel Oxley announced he will retire by the end of the year.
Calling the move “100% my decision,” Oxley made his big announcement to the staff on Wednesday, noting, “Because we are doing well, such a solid position, and because the best time to make changes is when you are doing well, and because I’m flippin’ 65, I’ve decided that it’s time for me to hang up my cleats and retire and move on to the next chapter in my life.” Watch Oxley’s announcement HERE.
Hubbard Broadcasting President & CEO Ginny Hubbard expressed full support for Oxley’s decision, commenting, “Joel’s leadership, integrity, and deep commitment to excellence have shaped this organization for decades. His impact on our people and our brands is lasting, and we are grateful for his remarkable service. We are also incredibly grateful that he is willing to continue offering his experience and expertise to the company once he steps away from leading WTOP-WFED’s daily operations and strategy.”
Under Oxley’s leadership, flagship brands WTOP News, Federal News Network (FNN), and 2060 Digital have achieved consistent growth in revenue, profitability, and audience reach. Reflecting on his lengthy tenure, Oxley shared heartfelt appreciation for those he worked with over the years, noting, “The reason I’ve stayed for nearly 35 years is simple — the people. What we do here matters. We make a difference in our communities, for our audiences, and for the businesses we serve. I will always be deeply grateful for the honor of working alongside so many great colleagues and for such a great company.”
To say Oxley is leaving WTOP in solid shape would be an understatement — WTOP has been America’s top revenue-generating radio station for 13 of the past 14 years, billing $66.3 million in 2024.
Looking ahead, Oxley will remain actively involved with WTOP over the coming months to support a smooth leadership transition. He will also continue in an advisory and consulting role with Hubbard Broadcasting following his retirement. The search for Oxley’s successor will include both internal and external candidates.
