Hicks Named APD, Star 94.5/Orlando

• Programming pro Jay Hicks has been named Assistant Program Director for Cox Media Group Urban AC WCFB (Star 94.5)/Orlando. Hicks will support day-to-day programming and the execution of marketing, promotions, events, and sales campaigns, in addition to locally hosting and producing The Rickey Smiley Morning Show.

Hicks brings more than 20 years of experience to CMG, most recently as PD of Audacy Urban WPGC/Washington. Hicks previously served as Brand Manager at Townsquare Media Urban WBLK/Buffalo, NY and spent 5 1/2 years in his hometown of Detroit programming Radio One’s WGPR (Hot 107.5). Earlier in his career, while attending Michigan State University, Hicks went to work for MacDonald Broadcasting Urban WQHH (Power 96.5)/Lansing, MI, rising from part-time to APD/MD/night jock to the PD chair.

 In his new role, Hicks reports to Elroy Smith, Director of Branding & Programming, who commented, “Having Jay join CMG and Star 94.5 Orlando is a major plus for us. He is strategic, methodical, creative, and competitive. Jay’s litany of radio and digital experience will be a major contribution to the growth of Star 94.5. It’s great to add another quality professional to our CMG Orlando team.”

Steve Stewart, Director of Operations for CMG Orlando, remarked, “We are thrilled to have Jay join the Orlando programming team. With his experience, both on air and behind the scenes, Star 94.5 is positioned for big and exciting moves in 2022!” Hicks said, “It’s such a pleasure to join the Cox Media Group team in Orlando. I’m very excited to create world-class on-air and digital content, as well events, that serve our Orlando listeners.”