Cox Media Group Promoted Jud Heussler in Jacksonville

Heussler steps into the director of operations role, overseeing the broadcaster's local cluster.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People

Cox Media Group Promoted Jud Heussler in Jacksonville

Cox Media Group has appointed Jud Heussler as the new Director of Operations for its Jacksonville cluster. Heussler fills the vacancy left by Jules Riley, who relocated to the company's Atlanta division.

Why it matters

The promotion signals continuity in leadership for the local cluster following the departure of the former director. Operators in media and marketing should track leadership shifts to understand potential changes in local programming and station management strategies.

The transition replaces the previous director with a successor who brings 12 years of combined programming experience across previous markets, including 8 years at WKSE and 4 years at WWPL.

The players

Jud Heussler

An experienced broadcast programming executive who has transitioned to Director of Operations for Cox Media Group in Jacksonville.

Cox Media Group

A major multi-platform media company that operates a portfolio of television and radio stations across the United States.

Jules Riley

The former Director of Operations for the Jacksonville cluster who has transitioned to a new role within the company's Atlanta office.

The details

Heussler moves into the director role after previously serving as the Director of Branding and Programming for WAPE Jacksonville, a position he held since March 2021. He will now oversee operations for the Jacksonville cluster, assuming responsibilities previously managed by Jules Riley. This appointment maintains internal leadership continuity for the local media group.

March 2021: Heussler began his role as Director of Branding at WAPE Jacksonville.
June 2026: Jules Riley departed the Jacksonville cluster for a role in Atlanta.
September 28, 2026: The promotion of Jud Heussler was officially announced.

Market Landscape

The move reflects the broader industry trend of promoting internal programming talent into operational oversight roles to ensure cultural and strategic consistency. This appointment follows the 2026 executive reshuffling within Cox Media Group, marking a standard succession cycle for the organization.

Business owners who partner with the Jacksonville cluster should monitor for any shifts in programming strategy or station management. The change represents a transition in key contacts for local advertising and media buying partnerships.

The takeaway

Leadership transitions at the cluster level often precede shifts in local programming focus and media reach. Operators should verify current points of contact for ongoing contracts to ensure service continuity.