Universal Music Group (UMG) has acknowledged eliminating roles as music-industry publications reported a new round of layoffs and senior departures across its U.S. and U.K. operations on Wednesday, October 14.
In a company statement published by Music Business Worldwide, a spokesperson said UMG is adding skills and technology, coordinating expertise across teams and seeking greater efficiency. The spokesperson acknowledged that some roles had been removed and expressed gratitude to departing employees.
Variety and Music Business Worldwide separately reported that Def Jam Recordings chairman and chief executive officer Tunji Balogun and Interscope executives Nicole Wyskoarko and Sam Riback are leaving their posts. Music Business Worldwide reported that Balogun would leave by year-end. Those personnel details come from the publications’ reporting; the company statement cited above did not name departing executives.
The changes follow a cost-reduction program UMG announced on February 28, 2024, targeting €250 million in annual savings through workforce reductions and operating efficiencies.
The total number of positions affected in this latest round and its full timetable remain unconfirmed. RNN has not verified changes to radio-promotion staffing, artist-development budgets or release schedules.
The Radio News Now question: Which teams will take over departing executives’ responsibilities, and how will UMG maintain continuity for artists and radio partners during the transition?