Cressman Charts A New Course
• RAMP has learned that Rob Cressman has announced his retirement as PD/Brand Manager of Hubbard Radio Classic Rock WDRV (97.1 The Drive)/Chicago after a six-year run.
In a statement, Cressman said, “The effects of the pandemic have had such an accelerated and rippling impact on our business that it has become increasingly difficult to find reward in creating and amplifying the art of sound. I am eternally thankful to have worked with such a talented group in Chicago, for whom I wish only the best. I feel fortunate to have enjoyed a career path paved with the fundamentals of diverse experience and the tutelage of some of the most respected professionals in the industry. Crafting audio innovation aimed at audience allegiance, while also providing unique revenue generation opportunities, has been my perpetual focus for over three decades. I am eager to step away and recharge, but also anxious to find the next partner or platform to share this undying passion of mine.”
Cressman had programmed The Drive since Feb. 2016. Before that he spent three years as SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Indianapolis, overseeing operations at Classic Rock WFBQ (Q95), Alternative WOLT (Alt 103-3), Country WUBG (Big 98-3) and Sports/Talk WNDE (Fox Sports 97/5). He earlier spent five years as Director of Programming/Brand Manager of Saga Classic Rock WAQY (Rock 102) and Active Rock WLZX (Lazer 99.3)/Springfield, MA, a decade as Director of Programming for WMFS/Memphis, and eight years as PD of WAVF/Charleston, SC.
Cressman continued, “While my retirement may ultimately be temporary, I look very much forward to the opportunity to be closer to my family and friends outside the Chicago area. If the past 24 months have provided a solid lesson in perspective, it is that life is much too short.”
Hubbard Chicago Market Manager, Jeff England commented, “Rob will be missed, and his contributions to our success are greatly appreciated. We are happy for him and wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter.” Looking ahead, Cressman can be contacted at rmcressman@gmail.com.
