Bart Tessler Era Ending At WWO

• After a remarkable 44-year tenure with Westwood One, the company’s longest-serving employee, EVP of News & Talk Programming Bart Tessler is leaving the company. A staff memo from Suzanne Grimes, EVP of Marketing, Cumulus Media & President of Westwood One, obtained by RAMP, notes that Tessler had “worked for a dozen organizations after mergers, sales, and consolidations and reported to 25 different CEOs, presidents, and COOs,” adding, “During his tenure, Bart launched three national news networks; and managed coverage and programming or distribution for five others. He also launched a business network and oversaw distribution relationships for another three, with his trademark professionalism, passion and pride.”

Grimes continued, “Bart’s round-the-clock worth ethic and exceptional talent attracted many accolades to Westwood One. The news division was showered with dozens of the most prestigious awards in the business — including multiple Peabody, Edward R. Murrow, Sigma Delta Chi and National Headliner honors, many of which were awarded personally to Bart.” In closing, Grimes said, “Please join me in expressing immense gratitude to Bart for his four decades of inspiring leadership and commitment to the truth.”

For his part, Tessler commented, “It’s been a thrill to witness history and work with the industry’s top personalities and broadcast journalists. It has also been a privilege to have the responsibility to carefully and accurately report important news over the years. The stars have now aligned perfectly to allow me to transition to the next story. Many thanks to Suzanne Grimes and Charles Steinhauer for their guidance and support, and best wishes to Westwood One and all my colleagues and friends for continued health and success.”

• Last month it was announced that the Westwood One News division was shutting down its operations, effective August 30. At the time, a Westwood One spokesperson said, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire WWO News Team for all that they have accomplished and acknowledge the exceptional leadership of Bart Tessler, who has commanded our admiration and respect throughout his 45-year news career. We remain heavily committed to our personality-driven News-Talk programming with megabrands including Mark Levin, Ben Shapiro and The Daily Wire, Jim Bohannon, Michael Savage, Dan Bongino, Dave Rubin, and Red Eye Radio.”