The nation’s largest Contemporary Christian Music radio station operator — also the No. 2 licensee in the U.S., behind iHeartMedia, has hired a Chief Content Officer.
It’s a first for Educational Media Foundation (EMF), and puts Jim Houser in the driver’s seat for its two national CCM networks, Christian Contemporary Pop KLOVE and Worship Music Air1.
Under CEO Bill Reeves, Houser will further develop EMF’s streaming strategy, oversee the upcoming podcast platform, all marketing strategy, and the integration of EMF’s digital assets with its programming initiatives.
“I could not be more excited about the addition of Jim and his almost 30 years of experience in the Christian music business,” Reeves said. “Jim is widely respected, has an outstanding track record, and his integrity in the industry is second-to-none. His love of broadcasting and its history, married with his ability to strategize around new ideas, makes him the perfect choice to help lead EMF into the future.”
Houser’s career began in college radio and led to an opportunity with national Christian radio ministry, Focus on the Family. While editing Focus’ daily broadcast, Jim and two partners created a weekly syndicated Christian hit music show that quickly became an industry favorite airing in over 300 markets.
Next, Houser joined Sparrow Records (now Capitol Christian) in radio promotions, and advanced to marketing and artist development roles. Jim was then recruited to join Creative Trust and rose to Managing Partner, where he led the team growing and supporting the careers of Steven Curtis Chapman, Mary Beth Chapman, Brandon Heath, Britt Nicole and others.
“Radio was my first love,” Houser said, “and in each role throughout my career, I’ve made it a central focus. I’m humbled to be tapped to join the EMF executive team and excited for the opportunity to collaborate with, and serve, the Christian music community, advancing redemptive art and music.”
Houser will begin his new post in May and will divide his time between EMF’s Northern California headquarters and its broadcast studios in Franklin, Tenn.
He will oversee the future VP of Radio and VP of Marketing, the radio network Program Directors and additional Directors and Senior Managers.
