Fred Jacobs will step down as president of Jacobs Media at the end of 2026, with his brother Paul succeeding him. Fred will become chairman and continue selected work for the radio consulting and research company he founded 43 years ago.
The company disclosed the transition in a November 3 announcement. It is a change in leadership rather than a complete departure from the business.
Paul said strategy, digital transformation and profitable digital revenue programs would be priorities. Chris Brunt, director of digital revenue, and Bill Jacobs will remain in their roles, while additional organizational changes are still being worked out.
Jacobs Media also said its commercial, public and Christian music radio Techsurveys would continue, with Fred participating in their design and implementation. Techsurvey 2027 is scheduled to field in January and February.
For station clients, the immediate distinction is between continuity in research and a change in who leads the company. Additional staffing details remain to be announced.