Adkins to Retire as iHeartMedia Markets Group President
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 30, 2025 | 3:54pm CT |
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 Hartley Adkins |
A major leadership shift is coming to iHeartMedia as longtime executive Hartley Adkins prepares to retire at the end of this summer, concluding a 32-year career with the company. Adkins, who currently serves as President of the Markets Group, will transition into an advisory role, continuing to contribute to strategic initiatives and industry relations.
The announcement was made in a companywide memo from iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and President, COO/CFO Rich Bressler, obtained by RADIO ONLINE. In the note, they praised Adkins' decades of service, calling him "an important part of this company in every role he's held," and highlighting his leadership in transforming iHeart's Markets Group from a traditional broadcast operation into a multi-platform powerhouse spanning podcasting, digital, social media, and live events.
"His wisdom, knowledge, and urgency in everything he does will be missed," wrote Pittman and Bressler. "On a personal level, we will miss working with him day to day."
Adkins began his career in 1993 as an account executive in Tampa before ascending through multiple leadership positions within the organization. As President of the Markets Group, he spearheaded the development of data-driven sales strategies. He also played a prominent role in the broader radio industry through leadership positions with the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB), and as iHeartMedia's liaison to other industry groups.
While stepping away from daily operations, Adkins will remain engaged with the company as a Strategic Advisor, assisting with special projects, representing iHeart within key industry organizations, and advising on growth and innovation strategies. He has also been closely involved in creating a succession plan to ensure a seamless transition.
Pittman and Bressler added, "We understand his desire to spend more time with his family -- it's well-deserved, and certainly comes with our blessings and support."
