The man who guided Acadia Broadcasting over the past decade is being honoured by the Ontario Association of Broadcasters (OAB).
Chris Pearson is this year’s recipient of its Hall of Fame award.
He will receive the award at a ceremony in Toronto next month.
The award recognizes individuals in private broadcasting who have demonstrated a commitment to high standards.
Pearson’s career in private broadcasting started in 1987 in sales in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia.
His career with Acadia progressed from Sales Representative to Sales Manager, Station Manager, Interim Director of Sales, Vice President of Sales, and ultimately President in 2016.
As President, he helped expand Acadia’s footprint, with the acquisition of five radio stations, expanding the company from 11 to 16 stations located across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and northwestern Ontario.
Another of his key accomplishments was leading the company through the pandemic.
“Chris remains especially proud of how Acadia’s ownership, management team, and employees demonstrated resilience, professionalism, and integrity during one of the most difficult periods in the company’s history,” states the OAB in a release.
Pearson is also cited for being a passionate advocate for succession planning and supporting the development of future leaders.
Another proud achievement was mentoring his eventual successor, who was appointed as President last December, following Pearson’s decision to retire.
He continues to serve in an advisory role.
He is also President of the OAB, a member of the Canadian Association of Broadcasters’ CEO Radio Council, and Interim Chair of the Commercial Radio News Fund.
He also holds a First-Degree Black Belt, using martial arts instruction to teach confidence, discipline, perseverance, and character development to students of all ages.
