As reported in our movements page earlier this week, Anthony Frangi has been appointed to the role of General Manager at Brisbane radio stations News Talk 4BC and 4BH. He speaks to us about his station and the Brisbane radio market.

Frangi comes to the role after an extensive media career, both in front of and behind the microphone, working previously at News Talk 4BC and also with the ABC.

radioinfo: Are you planning to make any changes as GM or is it business as usual?

Frangi: As Content Director for News Talk 4BC I was responsible for developing and implementing strong programming initiatives, driving a positive culture and embracing change not only locally, but also across the Fairfax Radio Network. As the new GM, I look forward to continuing my work in these areas.

4BH has been serving Brisbane since 1932 and faces the same challenges all existing AM music stations are currently experiencing. My role as GM is to work with the Fairfax Radio Network to build a successful music station on AM, Digital Radio and online. 

radioinfo: Who will take over your CD job?

Frangi: Majella Marsden is currently Acting Content Director for News Talk 4BC. This position will be advertised soon.

radioinfo:  You’ve worked for the ABC and commercial radio and also taught radio at UQ. What are your thoughts on radio and especially talk radio.

Frangi: The ability to change and evolve remains a critical chapter in radio’s continued success story. Our industry is changing and listeners are demanding more from us and in how we deliver our information and entertainment. 

Stations on AM can remain relevant in an ever changing city like Brisbane. Talk Radio is especially successful on AM because of the credible news services and audience engagement still available on this band.  Talk Radio is about creating content – that’s what we do best. 

radioinfo: How important is talk radio in the Brisbane market?

Frangi: Brisbane is hungry for a talk station that delivers more local programming, more local news, more talkback, and challenges anyone who gets in the way of a better Brisbane.  4BC has that capacity to strike an intellectual and emotional chord with its audience, thirsty for local news and information. 

Weather also plays a big part in Brisbane, especially throughout the summer months.  This year, 4BC has further strengthened its ability to provide comprehensive and up-to-date emergency weather information.

radioinfo: Your focus has been on programming in the past, but there is a lot of emphasis on sales in a GM role. What is your sales philosophy and how will you add value to what your sales team is doing?

Frangi: The position of General Manager in Brisbane fits into the wider Fairfax Radio Network management team. Part of my role is to ensure our Network vision and strategy are deployed with strong leadership on to the local Brisbane market. We have a terrific National Sales Director in Nick Randall to work with our Brisbane Sales team, which is lead by James Johnston.