Apple brings on sales exec for iTunes Radio
Michael Pallad, formerly of Cumulus Media, will oversee broadcast-related ad sales on iTunes Radio, CNET has learned.
Apple has brought on a new sales executive to help it generate more cash off its streaming-music service iTunes Radio.
Apple has hired Michael Pallad to oversee part of the company's iTunes Radio ad sales, CNET has heard from industry sources. AdAge was first to report on the hiring on Tuesday. Pallad previously served as the executive vice president of sales at major radio company Cumulus Media.
iTunes Radio launched in September. The service is Apple's foray into music streaming and represents stiff competition to services like Pandora, Spotify, and others. Apple has been sprinkling in ads into iTunes Radio for some time, but apparently wants to start attracting more brands.
Actually getting companies to drop some cash into iTunes Radio might be a heavy lift. According to AdAge, Apple is reportedly asking brands to invest in 12-month advertising commitments through iTunes Radio valued at $1 million or more.
CNET has heard from industry sources that Pallad will not in fact head up all of iTunes Radio sales. Instead, he will be tasked with generating sales through broadcast channels and will report to the iTunes Radio sales chief.
Apple declined to comment on Pallad's hiring.
Update 10:47 a.m. PT to include source details.