Warner Music Group (WMG) has announced a series of executive changes across its recorded music and distribution operations, following a separate change on its publishing side.
The moves are intended to support the company’s operational goals around market share, music valuation, and efficiency, according to WMG and CEO Robert Kyncl.
New leadership roles
Val Blavatnik joins the executive team as Managing Director of Warner Music North America, UK, and Corporate Development, overseeing cross-market business operations and enterprise investment strategy.
Alejandro Duque becomes President of Warner Music International, adding the Asia-Pacific (APAC) and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) regions to his previous oversight of Warner Music Latin America.
Aaron Bay-Schuck is now the sole Chairman and CEO of Warner Records Group, transitioning from the co-chairman position he has held since 2018.
Distribution and regional changes
Elliot Grainge, currently Chairman and CEO of Atlantic Music Group (AMG), adds the role of Chairman of Alternative Distribution Alliance (ADA). Zach Friedman adds Vice Chairman of ADA to his current role as AMG’s COO. Grainge and Friedman previously founded the independent label 10K Projects before it was integrated into WMG. ADA will continue to operate as a standalone business, the company said.
Guillermo Gonzalez previously led Warner Music Iberia, where he integrated the division’s live music and management businesses. Andrés Rothschild will succeed him as President of Warner Music Iberia.
WMG also announced that Simon Robson, who has shaped the company’s international operations for nearly 30 years, will step down in December to pursue new opportunities.
Executive comment
Kyncl said:
Elliot, Aaron, Alejandro, and Guillermo are exceptional, dynamic, and proven leaders who have transformed their domains, and elevating them allows us to further scale their success. I’m also excited to welcome Val to the executive team, where his operational and strategic focus will help us build our momentum across key markets.
We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Simon Robson for his dedicated service, operational excellence and trusted leadership while expanding WMG’s global footprint over his remarkable tenure, and wish him the very best in his next endeavors.
