UF creates strategic position to advance new media at its radio stations

October 15, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida has created a position to explore new media opportunities for its commercial radio stations, Rock 104 and AM850.

UF College of Journalism and Communication Dean John Wright named Paul Gordon executive director of commercial media properties.

“Our current veteran leadership team at the stations will be aided by the development and execution of strategic planning and longer term goal setting,” Wright said. “We will expand our media properties to include cutting-edge digital applications, developed both independently and through strategic partnerships.”

Gordon has significant experience in media sales, operations and executive management. He spent more than 25 years in media sales and executive operations positions with Cox Enterprises affiliated divisions, most recently serving as executive vice president of sales and strategic initiatives for Largo-based Cox Target Media. He left Cox earlier this year to form Experior Prime, a sales and management consulting business.

“We must embrace the responsibility we have to provide an extraordinary value and look to constantly improve partnerships with our well-established WRUF AM-FM radio stations and exciting new ventures in digital delivery,” said Gordon, a Department of Telecommunication Advisory Council member.

Pat Esser, president and CEO of Cox Communications who has worked with Gordon for more than 20 years, said Gordon is the right person for the job. “He has an extensive track record of success. His experience, energy, and creativity make him a great fit for this opportunity.”

The college is a national leader in the professional education of future journalists and other communication practitioners.