Bernard replaces David Elliott who retires in May after 11 years in the post.
Bernard has worked in developing commercial radio for around 25 years and is credited with the creation of Classic FM, one of the UK's most successful commercial radio stations, with a weekly audience of almost six million.
He was chief executive of the GWR Group from 1982, becoming Chairman in 2001. Following GWR's merger with Capital Radio to form GCap Media in 2005, Bernard served as chairman and then chief executive, a position from which he stepped down last year.
Bernard was appointed a CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours in 2002 for his services to broadcasting. He also serves as chairman of the Central School of Ballet, as chairman of the British Lung Foundation and as a director of the Watermill Theatre, Newbury.
Bernard will take his new role on 1 June.
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