Billy Anderson to leave GMG as he begins talks to buy over Rock Radio brand
Current Real Radio and Rock Radio managing director Billy Anderson is set to leave GMG Radio, as he aims to take over Rock Radio.
Anderson will leave the company having been appointed as managing director in 2004, to work on a new venture involving the 96.3fm licence.
Meanwhile, Rock Radio Manchester will rebrand to Real Radio XS, with the group in talks with Anderson to buy the Rock Radio brand in Glasgow, a labour of love for Anderson since its launch.
He is working with a consortium of private investors backing the acquisition.
The new brand, Real Radio XS, will go live in September, while Anderson will leave his post in August to concentrate on the buy-out.
Stuart Taylor, GMG Radio chief executive said: “There is a clear appetite for the music we play and these plans will give both stations the best possible chance of growth and success, provide an attractive commercial proposition for advertisers and mean that this genre of music continues to thrive in these two regions.
“Billy has been a key figure in GMG Radio`s growth and a great support at both station and board level and with his passion for rock music and keen eye for business we wish him every success for the future.”
Billy Anderson added: “I’ve had the time of my life at GMG Radio, joining when the group was about to launch its second station, Real Scotland, and I will truly miss the people. But I’m extremely excited about the potential for Rock Radio and will now be able to fully focus on acquiring the station. Once that is complete, I am looking forward to unveiling plans on a unique new way of experiencing and interacting with the greatest genre of music in the world – rock!”