Stig Abell was named Launch Director of Times Radio late last year, and has been working with Wireless CEO Scott Taunton and Programme Director Tim Levell to develop the brand and tone of the station, and hire a roster of high quality presenters. In April, Stig was named co-host of the Times Radio breakfast show (Monday to Thursday) alongside broadcaster Aasmah Mir.
During his four years as Editor of the TLS, Stig has reinvigorated the brand, says News UK, reinventing it as a modern multi-platform media proposition, launching a TLS Books imprint and a popular weekly podcast, as well as redesigning the TLS both in print and online. Stig will continue to be responsible for the TLS Books imprint, a partnership with William Collins, and remains a columnist for The Sunday Times.
In his new role as Executive Editor at Wireless, he will report to Scott Taunton and work with programme directors advising on editorial tone of voice. Wireless national brands include talkSPORT, talkRADIO and Virgin Radio.
Stig Abell said: “To have been custodian of a thing as precious as the TLS for four years, and to have been involved in developing its potential in print, online, podcast and book form has been a real privilege. I will miss everyone who works there terribly, but leave full of confidence that they will continue to do a great job. Meanwhile, I get to concentrate my energies on radio, which is a huge and invigorating challenge.”
Wireless CEO Scott Taunton said: “Stig has been a key asset in developing Times Radio. He is a charismatic broadcaster with a keen editorial vision, and I’m glad to have his talent and experience joining Wireless at such an exciting time for our business and brands.”
Times Radio launches on Monday 29 June with presenters including John Pienaar, Mariella Frostrup, Carole Walker, Matt Chorley, Michael Portillo, Tom Newton Dunn and Gloria De Piero. It will broadcast on DAB, online and via app and smart speakers.
Meanwhile Martin Ivens will join the TLS as Editor from Monday 29 June. Martin was Editor of The Sunday Times for seven years, stepping down in January this year to join the Times Newspapers (TNHL) Board as a Director, and remaining as a contributor, commentator and broadcaster.
News UK Chief Operating Officer David Dinsmore said: “I want to thank Stig for his contribution in reinvigorating the TLS. He has brought renewed energy to the brand and I’m delighted he will remain connected via TLS Books – one of his many creations.
“In a distinguished journalistic career which saw him spend 30 years working across The Times and The Sunday Times, Martin has edited with rigour and intellect, making a major contribution to international journalism. He is the ideal editor to lead the TLS through its next chapter.”
Martin added: “I’m delighted to have been invited to edit the Times Literary Supplement. Without a doubt it is peerless in its role leading the nation’s cultural debate and I look forward to working with the team – and the universe of contributors – to build on the excellent work Stig has done.”
