Universal Music Group Layoffs Affect Senior Label Executives

Universal Music Group (UMG) has begun another round of layoffs affecting senior executives across several labels, extending a restructuring process first announced in January 2024.

The cuts follow approximately 200 layoffs at its Canadian operation last month. The latest round also affects “more than 12 roles” in Canada, representing approximately 6-7% of UMG’s workforce there.

Senior label departures

The departures include the following executives, with some moving into consulting roles:

• Jim Roppo, CEO (chief executive officer) of Republic Records.
• Tunji Balogun, chairman and CEO of Def Jam.
• Ben Mortimer, president of Polydor UK.
• Sam Riback, co-president of pop/rock A&R (artists and repertoire) at Interscope.

A day before news of the layoffs, Rebecca Allen announced she would leave her position as chief artist and strategy officer at Universal Music Group UK after 27 years with the company.

An October 14 update confirmed Roppo’s appointment as vice chairman of Warner Records Group. He will report to chairman and CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck in Los Angeles.

Restructuring and financial performance

A statement accompanying the cuts said:

“Our industry-leading investment in artist development has always guided that work and will continue to do so. We’re bringing in new skills and technology and connecting expertise across our teams to deliver greater global impact and efficiency. Where we have made the difficult decision to remove certain roles, we are deeply grateful for the contributions of the people leaving us.”

UMG’s first-half revenue reached nearly $7.2 billion, an increase of 5.3% from the first half of 2025.

The company has also faced costs associated with consolidating its $775 million acquisition of Downtown Music, alongside limited growth in streaming subscribers. Its shares have fallen approximately 33% year to date.

Warner Music has also recently cut staff, while Sony Music has reduced its workforce in recent years.