Warner Records Group has appointed Jim Roppo as vice chairman, putting him in charge of operations across its labels. His start date has yet to be confirmed.
Roppo will be based in Los Angeles and report to Aaron Bay-Schuck, the group’s chairman and chief executive officer (CEO).
Move from Universal Music Group
The appointment follows Roppo’s nearly three decades at Universal Music Group. Most recently, he was chairman and CEO of Republic Records, responsible for global strategy, operations and artist development.
Previously, he served as president and chief operating officer (COO) of Republic Collective, the umbrella group that includes Republic, Island, Def Jam and Mercury.
Bay-Schuck cited Roppo’s experience in artist development, digital, commerce and marketing as reasons for the appointment.
“My focus has always been on backing great music and helping teams win, and I look forward to bringing that to Warner. My biggest thanks to Aaron for this opportunity.”
Republic leadership roles
Roppo joined Republic in 2012 to update its marketing and commercial strategy. He advanced from executive vice president/general manager (EVP/GM) to co-president, becoming chairman and CEO in 2025.
His work included digital and data operations, international release launches and campaigns for artists across Universal Music Group’s roster.
Earlier, Roppo held roles at Island Def Jam Music Group, rising to senior vice president of sales and directing retail and commercial strategy.
Warner’s recent releases and roster
Warner’s recent activity includes Madonna’s return to the label, which brought a No. 1 album in the U.S. and U.K. and her highest domestic sales week in more than a decade.
The group also cited releases and artists across its roster:
- Global breakthroughs and chart-topping hits from Zach Bryan, Benson Boone, Teddy Swims and Sombr.
- Releases from Linkin Park.
- Country activity through Warner Records Nashville, including Academy of Country Music (ACM) award winner Cody Johnson, Gavin Adcock, Hudson Westbrook and Avery Anna.
- Talent including Blake Whiten, Alyssa Grace, Dijon and AZ Chike.
