C4 hires ex-R1 man to lead music radio

Former BBC Radio 1 executive Alex Donelly has been appointed head of music for Channel 4's digital radio stations.

The newcomer will be responsible for music output on all of 4 Radio's services, which are scheduled to launch next year at the latest. They include youth offering E4 and "intelligent adult" station Pure4.

Donelly was head of music at Radio 1 from 2000 to 2005 and is credited with "breaking" acts including Eminem and Coldplay. Currently he is senior vice-president of artists and repertoire at music publisher EMI, where he has been involved with acts such as Scouting For Girls.

"I'm sad to be leaving the world's best music publisher, but thrilled to be joining Channel 4, whom I regard as the UK's leading creative and innovative broadcaster," said Donelly. "The opportunity to be part of the team building a new music radio platform is very exciting."

The appointment was made by director of radio Bob Shennan, formerly BBC Radio 5 Live controller. "Alex is highly experienced and respected in the music industry," he said. "His kudos and standing will be a great asset to our radio business and I look forward to him joining the team."

Shennan also this week announced the appointment of Michael Hill, the 5 Live managing editor, as general manager at 4 Digital.

The 4 Digital Group won the licence to the second national DAB multiplex last summer. Some services - from 4 Radio and other broadcasters - are scheduled to launch in the summer but several media reports have predicted delays.

Rumours suggest 4 Digital is looking to begin broadcasting some services on the first national DAB multiplex, Digital One, and delay the rollout of its own infrastructure.