Carrick controller for commercial radio stations

As the new programme controller for Downtown Radio and Cool FM, Stuart Robinson’s responsibility means he will now oversee full output for an audience, according to the company, of 574,000 weekly listeners.

Stuart has almost 20 years of experience in the industry, starting out on Radio Carrickfergus in the mid 90s. He later took over Carrick’s local station and developed the hugely successful Castle FM.

He then moved to Belfast and became a familiar name as a presenter on Citybeat, where in time he hosted the Breakfast Show. In 2004 he was appointed deputy controller of Citybeat and since 2010, he been deputy programme controller at Downtown Radio and Cool FM.

He told the Carrick Times: “I’m delighted, as you can imagine this is the job that I’ve been chasing for almost 20 years working in radio in Northern Ireland. Yes, it’s a little daunting as I step up to oversee Northern Ireland’s two leading commercial radio stations but with well over half a million listeners to keep happy - I’m sure I’ll never be far from feedback, opinion and guidance that’ll keep me on the straight and narrow.”

In recent weeks Stuart has made significant inroads into re-shaping Cool FM including the launch of the station’s biggest schedule change.

It sees Pete Snodden back at breakfast time and a return to Cool FM for former MTV star John Kearns. Also joining from Citybeat are Emma Fitzpatrick and Paulo Ross.

Stuart added: “Whilst I’m over the moon with my amazing opportunity, I can’t ignore the fantastic team of presenters, journalists, producers and the wider programing team at Downtown / Cool who have supported me in my ‘acting’ role over recent months.

“We have an incredible, talented team here and together we will continue to keep Downtown and Cool FM as the two most successful and recognised radio brands in the country.”