Chicago Radio: Paul Agase Joins Cumulus For Key Sales Position

Cumulus has announced the appointment of radio industry veteran Paul Agase as Vice President of Sales for two of radio’s most iconic stations, Chicago’s 89 WLS (WLS-AM) and 97.9 FM The Loop (WLUP).

Paul Agase

Agase brings to Cumulus extensive radio sales experience, serving more than 30 years in executive roles within Chicago radio. In his most recent position, Agase led sales efforts for Chicago’s CBS-owned WBBM Newsradio as General Sales Manager. Agase’s career also includes management positions at Chicago radio stations including 670 AM The Score (WSCR), 93 XRT (WXRT), 103.5 KISS FM (WKSC) and B96 (WBBM-FM).

“Paul has made a significant impact driving sales for Chicago radio. His talents are an ideal match for Cumulus Chicago’s iconic stations and we are excited to welcome him to the company,” said Jon Pinch, Executive Vice President & Co-Chief Operating Officer.

“I am thrilled to be joining Cumulus working with these legendary Chicago radio brands creating solutions for advertisers,” Agase said.

Chicago media bloger Robert Feder quotes sources saying Agase had been under pressure because of declining sales at the Newsradio combo. Although still leading the market at $41.9 million, WBBM/WCFS advertising revenue fell more than 8 percent in 2013, according to Miller, Kaplan, Arase & Co. Overall Chicago radio revenue declined only about 2.5 percent last year.

Rod Zimmerman, senior vice president and market manager of CBS Radio Chicago, thanked Agase in a memo to staff Friday, adding: “I’m sure you join me in wishing Paul success (but not too much) and happiness in his new position.  Seriously, growing radio’s share of the advertising pie is everyone’s first goal, and knowing Paul will still be in Chicago supporting that effort, is a good thing.”

The Cumulus Chicago cluster includes the two stations where Agase will manage sales as well as 94.7 WLS-FM and 101 WKQX.