Student radio boss resigns
Hugh Sundae has resigned as general manager of independent Auckland radio station 95bFM.
Sundae’s last day will be March 2, bringing an end to his three-year stint as the alternative radio stations head and programme director.
His resignation follows a period of massive change for 95bFM including presenter changes, the rollout of a new website, strengthening the relationship with the student body, and audience growth.
Sundae said the timing felt right to leave.
‘‘I’ve always wanted to get in, do the job to the best of my ability and get out before people start wondering when I’m going to leave.
‘‘I wanted to make sure the station was in a secure position before I passed the baton, and all of those things lined up to about now,’’ he said.
Long-time 95bFM volunteer and current administration assistant Caitlin McIlhagga will step into the role as the station’s new general manager.
She had recently had finished a Bachelor of Arts and Laws at the University of Auckland, achieved while also working at a small accounting firm.
McIlhagga helped the growth and management of the station’s volunteers and more recently drafting of the station’s policies and contracts.
‘‘What I am most proud of is that I am leaving it to young talent from within to takeover,’’ Sundae said.
Entering the general manager position was an ‘‘honour and a privilege’’, but also a ‘‘huge responsibility’’, McIlhagga said.
‘‘Safeguarding independent media like bFM is no easy task, but the goal will always be to ensure the kids listening to the bFM Kids’ Show now can grow up to be involved in the next 20 years of the b too,’’ she said.
Sundae’s departure will also result in Mikey Havoc Breakfast Show producer Sarah Thomson taking over as programme director for three months.
Post 95bFM, Sundae and his wife, Yael Trelease-Hughes, plan to establish a company which provides live streaming and video for events.