NEW YORK — Warner Music Group has reorganized its global recorded-music leadership, giving several executives expanded regional responsibilities and placing its independent-distribution operation under new oversight.
Val Blavatnik joins the executive leadership team as managing director of Warner Music North America, the United Kingdom and corporate development. Alejandro Duque becomes president of Warner Music International, adding Asia-Pacific and Europe, the Middle East and Africa to his responsibilities.
Elliot Grainge, chairman and chief executive of Atlantic Music Group, also becomes chairman of Alternative Distribution Alliance, or ADA, in the United States. Zach Friedman becomes ADA vice chairman while continuing as Atlantic Music Group’s chief operating officer.
Warner says ADA will continue operating as a standalone business serving independent labels and artists. Grainge and Friedman previously built the independent label 10K Projects before it became part of Warner.
Independent clients will be watching
For independent labels, the important question is not simply who holds the titles. It is whether the realignment changes staffing, release support, access to audience data, marketing resources or distribution agreements.
Aaron Bay-Schuck becomes sole chairman and chief executive of Warner Records Group. Guillermo Gonzalez becomes president of Warner Music Europe, the Middle East and Africa, while Andrés Rothschild assumes the presidency of Warner Music Iberia. Simon Robson will step down in December after nearly 30 years with the company.
Warner characterized the changes as a strategy for improving cross-border operations and expanding in growing international markets. The company did not announce changes to ADA’s client contracts or service structure.