JACK Radio Group hires former Global exec Dick Stone

Former Global Radio Executive Dick Stone to lead all national and regional radio content across JACK Radio Group

11 December 2020, Oxford: Earlier this week, independent commercial radio business JACK Radio Group announced the launch of two new national radio stations, Union JACK Rock and Union JACK Dance, both of which started broadcasting on national DAB for the first time this morning (Friday 11 December). Further to this announcement, former Global Radio Executive Dick Stone has been appointed to the role of Group Content Manager, responsible for the output across the Group’s three national and three regional radio stations.

Bringing with him a wealth of experience gained from high-profile positions within the radio industry, Dick joins the JACK Radio Group from Global Radio, where he was responsible for all on-air output, branding, coaching and development of Global Radio’s stations in Nottingham, Birmingham, Warwickshire, Bristol and Cardiff. Prior to this and in his role as Group Programme Director, he was responsible for the launch of Global’s Smooth Radio Network, whilst other prominent positions have included Regional Group Programme Director for the Smooth Radio Network, as well as Managing Editor of Capital East Midlands, Programme Director of Trent FM and Hit Music Network, and also for stations in GWR Group/GCap Media plc’s The One Network. 

In his new role, Dick will be responsible for developing new programming initiatives, and establishing and building on collaborations with renowned and up-and-coming talent, who have previously included the likes of Brian Blessed, Mark “The Beast” Labbett, Josh Berry and Geoff Lloyd. In addition, he will oversee the content across the Group’s regional Oxfordshire radio stations, which includes the multi-award-winning JACKfm, together with JACK2 Hits and JACK3 & Chill. 

The launch of Union JACK Rock and Union JACK Dance has further extended the Union JACK radio brand, with each of the services broadcasting a bold blend of British-only music and comedy – a mix that Union JACK radio has become much-celebrated for. However, while Union JACK radio plays a mix of British music genres from across the 60s, 70s and 80s, Union JACK Rock will feature British-only rock music, while Union JACK Dance will celebrate British-only dance music. This allows listeners nationwide to enjoy their preferred choice of British music, alongside a more substantial and considered British comedy offering than can be found on any other radio station. 

Speaking of his appointment, Dick said: “To have the opportunity to expand Union JACK radio through the launch and ongoing development of two new complementary national radio services is immensely exciting. The JACK Radio group has created a style of British Commercial Radio that is unique and refreshing, and we have some really exciting plans for 2021.”

JACK CEO Ian Walker added: “Dick has an exemplary record of radio and audio industry experience, and brings with him some fantastic ideas and connections that will help to drive our national and regional radio portfolio. We’re delighted to welcome him to the JACK team!”

Listen to Union JACK radio, Union JACK Rock and Union JACK Dance nationally on DAB, online at unionjack.co.uk or via their individual Apps.