Power FM has appointed the former CEO of MTN Radio Awards, Lance Rothschild, as its head of programming.

Rothschild joined the station this month. He is the third head of programming to be hired in the 23 months of the station's existence.

His appointment has raised eyebrows in the entertainment industry about whether it had anything to do with Power FM, founded by businessman Given Mkhari, netting a record 14 nominations at this year's MTN Radio Awards.

However, the seasoned radio administrator said the adjudicating process was out of his hands. He said the process was audited by the firm SizweNtsalubaGobodo.

Rothschild said he knew from last year that he was going to step down as CEO of the awards. "I felt the awards had grown. We had a discussion with Given that I wanted to exit and the opportunity arose."

Rothschild said he was bringing radio discipline, lots of experience and a 360° view of the radio business. "I have a simple philosophy. Make an excellent product, attract audience and sell advertising."

Power FM has been struggling to attract advertising since its launch.

Mkhari said he appointed Rothschild because he wanted sobriety, expertise, and maturity.

"We have a lot of young people, and have invested in passionate and energetic young believers. In Lance, we were looking for that person that our operational team can look up to."

Mkhari said Rothschild's position was previously held by Ferdinard Mabalane, who was also a station manager, and by Marcel Gordon .

Mkhari said in many cases people outgrow the business, or vice versa.

bambalelep@sowetan.co.za