Big Changes In Cox Country
• Cox Media Group announced several major changes within the CMG Houston and San Antonio Radio teams. The movement begins with the departure of company veteran Jeff Garrison, who had served as Country Format Leader, OM of CMG San Antonio and PD of Country KCYY (Y100).
It was then announced that Johnny Chiang (left), longtime Director of Operations for CMG Houston and PD of KKBQ (93Q) would take over as CMG Country Format Leader, working with all six CMG Country stations in addition to his other duties. “CMG has some of the greatest brands, led by some of the best program directors in Country radio,” said Chiang. “I’m honored and humbled by the opportunity to work even closer with this distinguished and already-successful group of talented programmers. I’m deeply grateful to Tim Clarke and Steve Smith for their belief in me.”
Next up, Christi Brooks (left) is promoted to Director of Branding & Programming for KCYY/San Antonio, effective Nov. 2. Brooks started her career as an intern at KKBQ in 1999 and currently serves as the station’s Asst. Director of Branding & Programming and midday talent. “I had no idea when I walked through the doors 21 years ago at KKBQ that this would be my career path,” said Brooks. “I have been fortunate enough to work with and learn from some of the best in the business. I have been a fan of the team at Y100 for a long time and can’t wait to join them and see what we can do together.”
And finally, KKBQ afternoon personality Caitlin “CJ” Johnson (above, right) is promoted to Asst. Director of Branding & Programming, succeeding Brooks. Johnson began her career as a sales assistant at CMG Top 40 WAPE/Jacksonville, where she still handles middays. “Being asked to be Johnny Chiang’s Asst. Director of Branding & Programming is like getting the opportunity to learn how to write a country song from Chris Stapleton,” said Johnson, who joined KKBQ a year ago. “You just say ‘yes!'”
Bill Hendrich, EVP of CMG Radio, commented, “Johnny, Christi and CJ are brilliant programmers, thoughtful leaders, esteemed and respected on-air talent and all-around great people. Their passion for the industry and helping others will be the cornerstone of their success in their new roles. Congratulations to them all!” Tim Clarke, CMG Radio VP of Audience & Content, added, “Johnny, Christi, and CJ are all outstanding leaders in CMG Country, and I’m thrilled to see them rise in our organization. In each of their new roles, they will make our award-winning country brands even better.”
• Jeff Garrison, a 2019 inductee into the Country Radio Hall of Fame can be reached at 281-923-8448 or garrison88@aol.com.
