Disney Music Group (DMG) has named J.J. Italiano vice president of sales and digital, putting the former Spotify editorial executive in charge of its sales and digital marketing team.
Karen Lieberman, DMG’s senior vice president of commerce and digital, announced the appointment. Italiano will be based in Burbank, California.
Sales and digital responsibilities
Italiano’s remit spans DMG’s artists, soundtracks and playlists. His responsibilities include:
- Streaming and physical sales strategy.
- Audience development and digital marketing campaigns.
- Expanding global audiences and increasing fan engagement.
- Finding growth opportunities across digital platforms and emerging technologies.
Experience at Spotify and YouTube Music
Italiano most recently served as head of editorial at Spotify, overseeing global playlists including Today’s Top Hits and New Music Friday. He also led initiatives to connect artists with new audiences.
His earlier experience includes editorial leadership positions at Spotify and YouTube Music. Before that, he worked in artist management independently and with Deckstar, now YMU.
Lieberman and Italiano on the appointment
Lieberman said: “Having worked with JJ on the partner side for years, it’s clear he has a genuine passion for artist development and an excitement for reaching and serving fans. These qualities, paired with his robust experience across key platforms, make him an ideal fit for our team, and we’re delighted to welcome him to Disney Music Group.”
Italiano said: “After years of working together as partners, I could not be more excited to work alongside the incredible team at DMG. The kindness, professionalism and integrity of this team are second to none, and I am looking forward to what we can accomplish together. I am extremely grateful to Karen Lieberman and Ken Bunt for this tremendous opportunity, and for welcoming me to the DMG family.”
