Meet The Team

Five Forty Broadcasting Team Preview

Roy Burnette

Founder

Roy Burnette, General Manager and Owner of Five Forty Broadcasting, began his career in radio at WBHN in Bryson City, NC, in 1969 before joining the Marine Corps later that year. “I was fortunate to spend some time with the American Forces Vietnam Network,” Burnette shared.

Upon returning from military service, Burnette briefly resumed work at his hometown station before relocating to Sylva, NC, where he joined WMSJ, later rebranded as WRGC. After earning a degree from Western Carolina University, he accepted a position teaching broadcasting at Southwestern Community College and subsequently worked with the Exceptional Children’s Program at Cherokee Central Schools.

Burnette’s career took a significant turn during ownership changes at radio stations in Franklin, NC, where he played a key role in a major rebuild operation. This experience laid the foundation for the revitalization of WRGC Radio in Sylva, which Burnette acquired in 2012, followed by the addition of 1590 WBHN in 2016.

Connie Allen

Marketing Agent

Connie grew up in Swain County, has dedicated over 30 years to the field of education, making a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues. She resides in Waynesville with her husband Gary. Connie continues to channel her passion for community growth and development. She enjoys engaging with local business owners, exploring how Five Forty Broadcasting can support and enhance their businesses. Connie’s dedication to fostering relationships and her extensive experience in education reflect her commitment to the betterment of our community.

Andy Rogers

Operations Manager

Andy is a Western North Carolina native and understands the unique challenges of rural marketing and strategic planning. Bringing 23 years of experience in the radio industry to his role as Operations Manager. With a strong foundation built during his 12 years working with Clear Channel and iHeart Media, Andy has developed extensive expertise across multiple facets of the business, including marketing, management, advertising, and engineering.

Andy has a well-rounded knowledge of the broadcast and advertising industry and enjoys working with clients to use multiple platforms to reach their target audience.