The RJR Communications Group has announced changes in its management structure aimed at implementing new strategic competitive adjustments in the media industry.

In a release, the company said the changes had introduced steps to improve profitability and increase market share.

Among the changes is the appointment of experienced programmer and former station manager for FAME FM, Francois St Juste, to the new position of general manager - radio services.

In this regard, he will now have general management responsibilities for RJR 94 FM, FAME 95 FM, and HITZ 92 FM.

The company has also announced the appointment of Ms Carlene Swaby to the position of marketing and sales manager for radio services. This amalgamates the management of marketing and sales functions of the three radio stations under one manager.

In its News and Current Affairs Centre, the company has appointed experienced journalist and media manager, Milton Walker, to the position of group head of news and current affairs.

Dominance

The News Centre has been re-structured to extend its news dominance in the electronic media and to diversify news operations by establishing additional revenue streams.

To this end, Kathy Barrett has been appointed deputy group head of news and current affairs with some specific growth targets; Keriann Lee has been appointed television news editor; Janice Budd has been appointed radio news editor (acting); and Earl Moxam has been appointed special assignments editor.

In all areas, there are targets established for increased quality in editorial output, the company said.

Because of a greater degree of projects associated with TVJ's growth in local programmes and products, Michael Sharpe has been reassigned from his role as projects manager in the News Centre to the new position of projects manager for Television Jamaica Limited.

The company said these changes and some of the strategies being pursued will lead to further management appointments within the short run. The changes will drive the implementation of several initiatives that will improve shareholder value and profitability in the group.