After announcing his upcoming departure from Curtis Media Group CHR “Pulse-FM 96.9/102.5” 96.9 WWPL Goldsboro/102.5 WPLW-FM Hillsborough NC earlier this month, Jud Heussler is joining Cox Media Group CHR 95.1 WAPE Jacksonville as Director of Branding and Programming.
Heussler joined the Raleigh market CHR in 2017 after previously spending eight years at Entercom’s “Kiss 98.5” WKSE Buffalo NY rising from a part-timer out of high school to APD/MD. Heussler fills the opening at WAPE created by the departure of Todd Shannon in March 2020.
Cox Media Group (“CMG”) Jacksonville has named Jud Heussler as Director of Branding and Programming at 95.1 WAPE “The Big Ape” effective March 29. In this role, he will oversee the day-to-day station operations to include music, social media, brand marketing, talent coaching and executing the station’s strategic action plan.
Heussler brings over a decade of broadcast industry experience to CMG. Previously, he served as Program Director and afternoon talent for Curtis Media Group’s Pulse FM in Raleigh, NC. Prior to that, he was Music Director, Assistant Program Director and on-air personality for KISS 98.5 in Buffalo, NY.
“I am thrilled about this amazing opportunity and for what’s on the horizon in Jacksonville, or in JAX as I learn the lingo,” said Heussler. “A huge thank you to Jules Riley, Katie Reid, Jeremey Rice and Steve Smith for this incredible honor.”
“Jud brings a wealth of experience and talent to Jacksonville and to the Ape,” said Steve Smith, CMG VP of Programming. “We are extremely excited he will be growing our brand and the future of our programming.”
“In searching for a candidate to fill this role, we spoke with numerous talented programmers but Jud immediately stood out from the pack,” added Jules Riley, CMG Jacksonville Operations Director. “His enthusiasm and strong team leadership qualities are a welcome addition to the Big Ape!”
“Jud’s top 40 experience is exactly what we need to take the Ape heritage brand to the next level,” said Katie Reid, Vice President and General Manager of CMG Jacksonville. “With his high ambition, creativity and energy I am certain Jud will hit the ground running and make a huge impact at the station and in the local community.”
