Music industry veteran Tunji Balogun, who’s set to start as Def Jam CEO next year. Photo Credit: Universal Music Group
Here’s a recap of recent executive shuffles — including both hirings and in-house promotions — from across the music industry.
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Def Jam
RCA executive Tunji Balogun will start as Def Jam’s CEO and chairman on January 1st, 2022.
Sweetwater
Sweetwater founder Chuck Surack has stepped down as CEO and started as chairman of the board following Providence Equity Partners’ acquiring a majority stake in the company.
Additionally, longtime Sweetwater exec John Hopkins has succeeded Surack, transitioning to president and CEO ahead of his 30th anniversary with the company.
Chief Innovation and Intellectual Property Negotiator at the Office of the United States Trade Representative
Chris Wilson has been nominated to serve as chief intellectual property negotiator, and the RIAA in a statement described the more than two-decade USTR veteran as “supremely qualified” for the post.
Audience Republic
Audience Republic has brought on former Patron Technology president Brian Arnone as chief revenue officer.
91.ONE, WNXP
Ayisha Jaffer has joined 91.ONE, WNXP as assistant program director, while Emily Young will now coordinate the use of the Sonic Cathedral, “a unique performance and special event space.”
As a result of Jaffer’s hiring, current midday host Jewly Hight has transitioned to editorial director, “where she will lead music and culture coverage for WNXP and crossover efforts with sister station WPLN News.”
Symphonic
Symphonic has tapped former Mavin Records higher-up Tunji Afonja to serve as creative executive.
Warner Records
Warner Records has promoted former SB Projects exec Mike Chester to the newly created position of EVP of promotion and commerce.
Festicket
Festicket has named former Eventbrite team member Tim Glenane regional operations manager for APAC.