Colm O'Sullivan explains why he left Today FM in heartfelt message

Just two years after moving from Red FM to Today FM, Colm was unveiled as the latter's Programme Director in 2015. His first move was to replace himself on the 7pm - 9pm slot with Fergal D'Arcy. O'Sullivan learned his broadcasting chops on Cork Campus Radio and he was so highly thought of at Red that they made him their Programme Director and Assistant CEO.

But back in November, Colm made the decision to leave his post at Today FM and pursue a new job, one which is much more personal.

In an online online LinkedIN blog, Colm says:

"A lot of people have been asking and I never really did a press release or talk to a journalist- but just so you all know I resigned as Programme Director of Today FM last November.

"The first question that many people have asked is ‘Are you mad?’ once explained they get it. Last June we welcomed our first born to the world, the beautiful little Simon, and I had the ‘pleasure’ of seeing him once or twice a week due to a commute from Cork to Dublin. Obviously not sustainable, so that was the change making catalyst.

"I have to say I was never in a position before where I was leaving a job that I loved, but ultimately no competition in decision. Many permutations and combinations on how I could continue were looked at by all at Communicorp from board level right down for which I am grateful, and also qualified my work, but the role of Programme Director is so demanding that anything less that 110% would never work, something I knew I couldn’t give and definitely not at the expense of time with my little Simon.

"The programming role is the driving force behind everything you hear on the radio - providing an objective ear, an advisory one, the occasional 'throwing an arm around' and listening to everyone intently. A common opinion is that the CEO does all of the above, and on occasion yes, but the PD is the backbone of content structures, talent management and output strategy. It should be a functional collaboration, and if done well the results can be great. I have been lucky at Today FM and had a similar relationship with a few CEOs.

"So I have spent the last 5 months immersed in fatherhood, almost ‘Danish Paternity’, and I can’t recommend it enough. I have seen a little man transform from a quiet little bundle to a crawling, standing, throwing, hugging and loving little boy. That experience is and forever will be the product of the best decision I have ever made. Thanks for all the well wishes so far and yes I will be returning to media/radio in many guises, some in the form of a new boutique media company I set up with some friends (www.imediam.com) and others; well you’ll just have to wait and see."

We wish you all the best Colm!