The UK’s long-standing industry body, formerly known as The Radio Academy, has officially rebranded as The Audio Academy.
The announcement was confirmed at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting on 26 February 2026, marking one of the most significant identity shifts in its 40-plus-year history. The rebrand reflects a decisive pivot from traditional broadcast radio toward a broader, podcast-driven and on-demand audio ecosystem.
The message is clear: the future is no longer just radio. It is audio — in all its forms.
For more than four decades, the Academy has been synonymous with excellence in UK radio. Founded in 1983, it has championed broadcasters, presenters, producers, engineers, and creative talent across the country.
But 2026 represents a different era.
Today’s audiences:
The traditional FM and AM dial is no longer the centre of gravity. Instead, the industry now orbits around streaming apps, podcast platforms, smart speakers and creator networks.
By adopting the name The Audio Academy, the organisation is publicly acknowledging what insiders have long known: podcasting and digital audio are no longer “adjacent” to radio — they are central to it.
Despite the new name, leaders emphasised that this is not a rejection of radio heritage.
Rather, it is an expansion.
The Academy’s roots in UK radio remain foundational. But its remit now formally includes:
The rebrand aims to future-proof the organisation while preserving its legacy.
Nick Pitts, newly appointed Chair, described the moment as pivotal.
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The rebranding coincides with a leadership transition.
Nick Pitts, Content Director of Jazz FM and Magic Classical at Bauer Media Audio UK, has been appointed Chair of The Audio Academy.
Pitts steps into the role following four years of leadership under Helen Thomas.
In his first statement as Chair, Pitts said:
“I’m incredibly excited to be taking over as Chair of the Audio Academy at this pivotal point in its illustrious history and important mission to drive excellence in UK radio and audio.”
His emphasis on “radio and audio” underscores the organisation’s dual focus — honouring legacy while embracing transformation.
Within the industry, Pitts is recognised for:
His background at Jazz FM and Magic Classical positions him at the intersection of traditional broadcasting and digital expansion — a fitting leader for this transitional era.
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Joining Pitts in leadership is Philippa Aylott, Senior Commissioning Executive at BBC Music, who steps into the role of Deputy Chair.
Aylott succeeds Pitts in the deputy position and brings extensive commissioning and creative experience from the BBC’s music division.
She stated:
“I am passionate about all forms of audio and thrilled to take on the role as the deputy chair of the Audio Academy.”
Her background signals the Academy’s commitment to:
Together, Pitts and Aylott represent commercial and public service audio — reflecting the industry’s full spectrum.
The rebrand arrives amid undeniable structural changes in media consumption.
In this climate, remaining “The Radio Academy” risked appearing narrow in scope — even if the organisation’s activities were already broader.
The new name corrects that perception.
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The Academy is best known for organising the prestigious Audio & Radio Industry Awards, commonly known as the ARIAS.
The 2026 ARIAS programme is expected to be unveiled soon — and industry insiders anticipate a stronger spotlight on:
As the Audio Academy enters this new chapter, the awards are likely to reflect its expanded remit.
Managing Director Dixi Stewart described the moment as “exciting” and transformative.
She highlighted continuity alongside change, noting that under Pitts and Aylott’s leadership, the Academy will build on Helen Thomas’s vision to serve professionals “in every corner” of the industry.
Stewart emphasised inclusivity across:
Her remarks underline the Academy’s ambition to become the central hub for UK audio — not just radio.
The rebranding is more than symbolic. It has broader implications:
Independent podcasters gain stronger institutional recognition.
Traditional radio stations are encouraged to innovate and diversify.
Audio’s growing commercial ecosystem receives formal validation.
Training and networking opportunities expand beyond radio-specific skills.
The UK formally positions itself as an “audio-first” market, not just a radio market.
Globally, audio is experiencing a renaissance.
Smart speakers, subscription models, live streaming audio rooms, and immersive formats are reshaping how content is created and monetised.
The UK has long been regarded as a radio powerhouse. By becoming The Audio Academy, the organisation is effectively stating:
The UK will lead not only in radio excellence — but in total audio innovation.
One of the key balancing acts for the new leadership will be protecting the Academy’s historic credibility while expanding its audience.
Established in 1983, the organisation has:
The rebrand does not erase this history. Instead, it reframes it as the foundation for a broader future.
While formal reactions are still emerging, early industry commentary suggests the move has been widely anticipated.
Many insiders had noted that:
The rebrand aligns the public-facing identity with operational reality.
The immediate next milestone will be the official unveiling of the 2026 ARIAS programme.
Beyond that, attention will turn to:
The Audio Academy is expected to articulate a clearer long-term strategy in the coming months.
The transition from The Radio Academy to The Audio Academy represents a carefully calculated shift rather than a reactive rebrand.
It acknowledges:
At a time when legacy media institutions globally are struggling to redefine themselves, the UK’s leading audio body appears to have chosen proactive reinvention.
The message is unmistakable:
Radio remains respected.
But audio — in its broadest, most dynamic sense — is the future.
