Hartley Adkins Retirement From iHeartMedia

Hartley Adkins, a 32-year veteran of iHeartMedia, retired as President of the Markets Group at the end of summer 2025. 

Starting as a salesperson in Tampa, in 1993, Adkins rose through the ranks, holding roles such as General Sales Manager in Tampa, Director of Sales for Washington, DC, and Baltimore, and various executive positions, including Senior Vice President and Executive Vice President of Operations for multiple regions, President of Corporate Operations, President of North East Divisions, President of Revenue Strategy, and Chief Operating Officer of the Markets Group. 

Hartley Adkins

As President of the Markets Group since 2020, he oversaw 860+ radio stations across 160 markets, leading the company's transformation from traditional broadcast radio to a multi-platform audio leader incorporating podcasting, digital radio, social media, and live events. He also developed data and case studies to enhance partners’ understanding of iHeartMedia’s broadcast and multi-platform assets.

Adkins’ retirement was announced in a staff memo from iHeartMedia Chairman/CEO Bob Pittman and President/COO/CFO Rich Bressler on Wednesday. They praised his significant contributions, noting his “wisdom, knowledge, and urgency” and his role in making iHeartMedia a 21st-century audio industry leader. 

Adkins made notable industry contributions, serving on the Executive Radio Board of Directors for the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), as Past Chair of the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB), and as iHeartMedia’s primary liaison to the radio industry. He will continue with iHeartMedia as a Strategic Advisor, assisting with special projects, industry relations, and growth initiatives, while also aiding in a seamless transition through a succession plan.