Jon McTaggart

Minnesota Public Radio is keeping it in the family. Jon McTaggart, who has been with MPR's parent company American Public Media Group off and on since 1983, will become the new CEO when founder Bill Kling steps down on July 1. McTaggart, who currently holds the title of APMG's senior vice president, will become only the second person to ever hold the title.

"Jon has been a remarkable leader who has been responsible for a great portion of our success over the years," said Kling, who started public radio in Minnesota in 1967. "I'm confident Jon will ensure that APMG continues to lead the way in public media's ongoing evolution."

Randy Hogan, chairman of the APMG board of trustees, said a search committee considered over 200 candidates, including some international applicants, before picking McTaggart for his ability to handle both the mission and the business aspects of the job.

McTaggart called Kling a true friend and mentor. "Above all, Bill taught me to listen critically. That's where great radio starts," he said. "He set high expectations for himself and great expectations for the company and that will continue."