Veteran Radio Executive Matt Hanlon Dies

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 3:28pm CT

Matt Hanlon

Veteran radio executive Matt Hanlon, whose career included senior leadership positions at Citadel Broadcasting, Entercom, Townsquare Media and Saga Communications, died Tuesday, October 20, after suffering a heart attack.

Hanlon spent decades in radio management, sales and operations, overseeing major market clusters and helping develop regional programming networks. He was perhaps best known for his leadership at Citadel Broadcasting, where he served as Midwest Division President, overseeing 85 stations across 14 markets and approximately 1,500 employees.

During his tenure at Citadel, Hanlon played a pivotal role in developing Michigan's statewide sports radio network, recognizing the potential to expand Bill Simonson's local sports talk program, "The Huge Show," into a statewide offering. The initiative helped establish the program as a prominent sports radio brand while creating new revenue opportunities.

In November 2016, Hanlon was named Vice President and Market Manager for Entercom's newly acquired Charlotte cluster, which included WFNZ-AM (The Fan), WLNK-FM (The Link) and WBT-AM/FM. He also held leadership positions with Townsquare Media and Saga Communications, most recently serving as Director of Sales for Saga in Des Moines, IA.

Earlier in his career, Hanlon spent a decade with Katz Media Group and held sales leadership positions with AM/FM.

Simonson, who announced Hanlon's passing in a Facebook tribute, credited the executive with helping shape his broadcasting career and remembered him as both a mentor and close friend.

"Matt was the brainchild behind launching my radio show statewide," Simonson wrote. "Hanlon was a man of passion and vision. I wouldn't be where I'm at today if it wasn't for Matt Hanlon."

Simonson also recalled Hanlon's support during significant personal milestones, describing him as a devoted father who maintained strong relationships with his family and colleagues.

"He was a good friend. He was a great leader," Simonson said, adding that Hanlon's influence extended well beyond the stations and networks he managed.

Hanlon is survived by his five children. Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been announced.