Thomas Running CMG Tampa Bay

Cox Media Group (CMG) Tampa has named Rick Thomas as Operations Manager for AC WWRM (Magic 94.9), Alternative WSUN (97X), Top 40 WPOI (Hot 101.5), FM Talk WHPT (102.5 The Bone), Soft AC WDUV (105.5 The Dove), Classic Hits WXGL (107.3 The Eagle) and all digital content. Thomas will also serve as Hot 101.5’s Director of Branding and Programming.

Thomas most recently programmed CBS Radio Top 40 WBMP (92.3 AMP Radio)/New York. Before that he was at the controls of Classic Hits sister KRTH (K-Earth 101) and Urban AC KTWV (94.7 The Wave)/Los Angeles. Thomas’ extensive programming resume includes stints at KYLD (Wild 94.1)/San Francisco, KSFM/Sacramento and XHRM (Magic 92.5)/San Diego, plus three tours of duty at XHTZ (Z90.3)/San Diego. Prior to joining CBS Radio in May 2013 Thomas spent four years as Director of Programming for Ohana Broadcasting in Honolulu.

“CMG is very fortunate to have Rick join our Tampa team,” said Keith Lawless, CMG Tampa VP/Market Manager. “Rick is a successful and innovative leader in our business with an exceptional track record. I’m proud to partner with Rick and I have no doubt that his contributions will help Tampa compete and win, even more.” CMG Sr. VP of Programming Steve Smith commented, “I’ve had the opportunity to work with Rick in one way or another for most of my career. He is a great strategist and a warrior! I am so proud that Rick is joining the strongest programming team and media company in the business.” Thomas said, “The quality of the people, and the company that one chooses to go to war for are just as important as the yearning for a great competitive challenge. As soon as I met Keith Lawless, I realized we would do big things together. I’m so pumped and excited to partner with Keith, CMG CHR format boss Jeremy Rice, and reuniting with Steve Smith, whom I have known for three decades, in implementing a high level cluster growth strategy as well developing and curating these key brands for CMG Tampa.”