CRA names Ford Ennals CEO

Commercial Radio Australia has announced that Ford Ennals, currently CEO of Digital Radio UK, will replace Joan Warner as CEO when she steps down at the end of March.

Ennals has deep experience in media transformation and digitization. Before his time at Digital Radio UK, Ennals was founding CEO of Digital UK, a consortium of British commercial and public service broadcasters including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel Five. He was responsible for successfully working with broadcasters and the UK Government to convert UK homes to digital TV. 

Digital transformation

As CEO of Digital Radio UK, Ennals has led the UK radio industry’s transition to digital listening, working with the BBC, Global, Bauer and Arqiva, as well as with the automotive and tech organizations the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and techUK, the UK Government, and media regulator Ofcom. According to CRA, during Ennals’ tenure, digital listening trebled to almost two-thirds of all radio listening, helping to maintain overall levels of radio listening.

CRA Chairman Grant Blackley said the radio industry has entered a new era where digital platforms drive audience engagement, increased listening and revenue growth opportunities.

“Ford brings a unique combination of skills and experience to the role, having worked with major global brands with a deep understanding of marketing and customers, and leading both the television and radio sectors into the digital age in the UK with great success. He is an entrepreneurial change agent and leader in digital transformation, both of which will be valuable skills at CRA as the audio industry is well on its way to digital transformation,” Blackley said.

Outstanding tenure

Blackley paid tribute to Warner for what he described as an outstanding tenure at CRA, “Her dynamic leadership over the past 21 years has been instrumental in the growth of commercial radio in Australia. Joan has guided the organization through the development of several important projects, including the industry-wide ad-buying platform RadioMATRIX, the development of podcasting and voice tech initiatives, the launch of DAB broadcasts, the launch of our industry app, and the move to a new audience measurement system. CRA is well-positioned to embrace its digital future.”

Commenting on his new role, Ennals said: “Australia is one of the most advanced and dynamic radio and audio markets in the world, and I am truly excited to be joining the Australian radio sector at what is an inflection point in its history. It’s an honor to be appointed to the role of CEO of Commercial Radio Australia, and I look forward to working with the radio industry and all stakeholders to ensure radio, podcasting, and the broader audio ecosystem continues to thrive and achieve their potential with both listeners and brands.”