Clear Channel Media and Entertainment has promoted Tony Coles to SVP of Programming for the West Region, effective March 15. Coles will report to Brian Olson, SVP of Operations, and will be based out of Chicago. In this role, Coles will lead programming strategy initiatives. 

With more than 25 years of experience in the radio industry, Coles has held various on-air, programming and management positions and most recently served in a dual role as VP of Programming for CCM+E-Chicago and National Hot AC Brand Manager. Prior to that, Coles held the position as Clear Channel's RVP of Programming for the West and Operations Manager in Portland, OR.

"Tony's passion for leading people, his desire to win and proven track record make him a perfect fit for our Regional Team," said Matt Martin, President of Operations, CCM+E. "Tony will be supporting Brian in the West Regional Markets, but we are excited to benefit from Tony's talents and experiences throughout the Regionals." 

"I want to thank Clear Channel's senior leadership team for this amazing opportunity to further my career within the company," said Coles. "Programming is my passion and I am thrilled to be working with some of the best teams in the country. The West Region has strong brands and I look forward to building upon their successes."

CCM+E-Chicago will now begin an active search for a new VP of Programming.