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Cumulus Media Appoints Joyce Wirthlin as VP/Market Manager in Salt Lake City

4/2/2026, 9:29:23 PM

Key Appointment Details

Cumulus Media has appointed Joyce Wirthlin as Vice President and Market Manager for its Salt Lake City operations, overseeing five radio stations and associated digital assets. The stations under her management include AC KBEE (B98.7), Mainstream Rock KBER 101, Top 40 simulcast KENZ & KHTB (Power 94.9/101.9), News-Talk 860 KKAT-AM, and Country KUBL (93.3 The Bull). Wirthlin's extensive experience in the Salt Lake City media landscape positions her to leverage local insights effectively.

Background of Joyce Wirthlin

Wirthlin has spent her entire media career in Salt Lake City, beginning as a Senior Account Executive with Citadel in 1993. She transitioned to Clear Channel SLC, where she served as Vice President of Sales in 1998 and was later promoted to Senior Vice President of Sales in 2021. Most recently, she held the position of Market President for iHeartMedia Salt Lake City until her departure in October 2025 during a restructuring phase.

Official Statements & Responses

Dave Milner, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, emphasized Wirthlin's extensive market knowledge and strong local relationships, stating, “Joyce is an experienced market leader with deep relationships across Salt Lake City, enabling her to bring sharp local insight and credibility to every client partnership.” Wirthlin herself described her new role as a "significant full-circle moment," highlighting her early career ties to several of the stations she will now manage. She expressed enthusiasm about combining Cumulus's audio platforms with its digital marketing services to deliver strong results for clients.

Why It Matters

Wirthlin's appointment is significant for Cumulus Media as it seeks to enhance its presence in the Salt Lake City market. Her familiarity with the local landscape and established relationships may facilitate growth and improve client partnerships. The integration of audio and digital marketing strategies is expected to provide a competitive edge in delivering effective marketing solutions to local advertisers.

Criticism & Opposition

While the sources do not present direct criticism of Wirthlin's appointment, the media landscape is often competitive, and changes in leadership can lead to mixed reactions from stakeholders. Observers may watch for how her leadership impacts Cumulus Media's market performance and relationships with local advertisers.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “Dave Milner, Cumulus President of Operations, said, “Joyce is an experienced market leader with deep relationships across Salt Lake City, enabling her to bring sharp local insight and credibility to every client partnership.” — Dave Milner, President of Operations, Cumulus Media
  • “ Wirthlin remarked, “I’m honored to lead the talented team at Cumulus Media Salt Lake City.” — Joyce Wirthlin, VP/Market Manager, Cumulus Media Salt Lake City

Joyce Wirthlin's leadership at Cumulus Media is anticipated to drive growth and enhance the effectiveness of its marketing strategies in the Salt Lake City area.