Bauer Media Group’s president of audio Richard Dawkins is stepping down from his role due to “differing ideas around the next phase of transformation”, according to a statement from the media company.
Dawkins was promoted to his role in May 2022, after having spent three years working for the company as COO of audio. He first joined Bauer to lead its audio strategy alongside the creation of the company’s audio business unit, after previously serving as COO of BBC Content.
Highlights from Dawkins’ career at Bauer include overseeing the launch of digital advertising networks and on-demand subscription services in Europe. Bauer also recently launched Rayo in March this year, an app and web platform which acts as an all-in-one destination for all of Bauer’s audio portfolio including podcasts.
The company has not revealed what specific differences of opinion have led up to Dawkins’ departure. Its most recent strategic moves have included investing heavily in digital radio, with a number of acquisitions such as Ireland’s iRadio and Red FM operators.
“I’ve had the most fantastic four years at Bauer Media Audio, first as chief operating officer and then as president but the time has come to take on a fresh challenge,” said Dawkins. “It’s been a privilege to work with such a passionate group of colleagues and to learn about the many different media landscapes across Europe.”
“I’m truly grateful to Yvonne Bauer [CEO and owner of Bauer Media Group] for the opportunities and support she has given me, and wish everyone at Bauer the best of luck for the future.”
“While I’m confident this change is for the best, it is very difficult to lose Richard,” said Bauer. “This decision has been incredibly challenging for us both, as we deeply respect and appreciate each other as colleagues and professionals.”
“I would like to thank Richard for his inspiration, expertise and unwavering commitment in building the business to what it is today and wish him the very best both professionally and personally.”
As the company continues to transition into the next phase of its audio business, Dawkins will part ways with the company, and his successor has not yet been announced. Earlier this year, the media company appointed Heat Magazine’s editor-in-chief Lucie Cave as the chief creative officer of podcasts and commercial content as part of its goal to expand more into podcasting.
“This is a brand-new era for podcasting as we move beyond ‘format’ to atomised content across multiple platforms,” said Cave at the time. “As an editor, journalist and host myself I am massively excited by the opportunity to develop talent into transmedia brands and find new ways of reaching fans and building audiences.”
