Paxton Leaving Audacy, Sottolano Upped

• Audacy just announced that Chief Programming Officer Pat Paxton is leaving the company after two decades. It was concurrently announced that Audacy EVP of Programming Jeff Sottolano has been promoted to EVP, Head of Programming.

In a staff memo, Audacy Chairman, Pres. & CEO David Field said of Paxton (left), “Pat has been a key leader in the organization for the past 21 years, spearheading programming and playing a critical role in helping us build many of the industry’s greatest brands. Pat’s steady, decisive leadership and thoughtful insights have made him a valuable and trusted voice on Audacy’s leadership team. Pat has left an outstanding legacy at Audacy which will stand the test of time. We deeply appreciate his many important contributions to our success and everything he has meant to this company.”

Field’s memo continued, “Like Pat, Jeff (right) is a veteran team member, having spent his entire career at Audacy, Entercom, CBS Radio and Infinity. Since the merger, he has played an important leadership role overseeing a number of initiatives and many key elements of our programming.  Over the past year, Jeff led our news transformation efforts and the launch of the BetQL Network. In addition, he expanded our programming data and analytics capabilities, managed our network content partnerships and contributed to our Audacy Exclusive Station launch strategy.

“In his new role, Jeff will be responsible for the content strategy and performance of Audacy’s local brands in all formats across both broadcast and digital distribution platforms. He will oversee our outstanding programming leadership team, including SVP of Programming Dave Richards, VP of News Bill Smee, VP of Sports Matt Volk and Audacy’s team of experienced Format VPs. He will also work closely with our Music Initiatives and Live Events team led by SVP of Music Initiatives Michael Martin and SVP of Promotions and Experiences Chad Fitzsimmons, as Audacy curates amazing experiences for its listeners in-person and online. Finally, he will collaborate with digital leadership to ideate new and exclusive features and content on the Audacy app and distribution platform as the company expands its capabilities and offerings. Please join me in congratulating Jeff on his new role at Audacy.”