Warner Music Group (WMG) has announced that Carianne Marshall will transition out of her role as co-chair and chief operating officer of Warner Chappell Music (WCM), its publishing division, at the end of this month, a move the company said comes “as the company streamlines its leadership structure.”
WCM chief executive Guy Moot will become sole chair of the publisher effective October 1. Marshall will remain with the company through the end of the calendar year to ensure a seamless transition, the announcement states.
Leadership background#
Marshall joined Warner Chappell in June 2018 after the sale of Songs music publishing, where she was a partner. Songs had built its profile with writers including The Weeknd and Lorde. She had co-led Warner Chappell with Moot since April 2019.
During her tenure, Marshall worked on the modernization of digital licensing, the launch of the publisher’s creative services department, and multiple major signings.
Her exit follows other recent departures of female executives from major music company leadership roles, including Sylvia Rhone at Epic and Julie Greenwald at Warner Music’s Atlantic; those roles were subsequently filled by men.
Executive comments#
Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl said: “Carianne has been instrumental in building Warner Chappell into the successful company it is today. She’s helped drive exceptional results that have set our songwriters and our business up for long-lasting success. Our talented team will build upon the incredible foundation she’s put in place. We thank her for her dedication, impact and wish her the very best in her next chapter.”
Marshall said: “When Guy and I began this journey together, we wanted to build a songwriter-first home for the creative community. Reflecting on our time, I am proudest not only of our growth, but of the incredible culture and values we’ve fostered together. I step away with immense gratitude for Len, Robert, Guy, the WMG Board, and our entire Warner Chappell team knowing that the company has never been better positioned for what’s next.”
Moot said: “Carianne has been an extraordinary partner and a fierce champion for our songwriters and our people over the past seven years. Her vision, heart and drive helped us establish an operating foundation that sets Warner Chappell apart and shaped a winning global team. I am deeply grateful for our partnership and wish her every happiness.”
Writer roster#
Warner Chappell’s key writers include the following, among others:
- Tom Petty
- Amy Allen, Grammy songwriter of the year
- Kacey Musgraves
- Raye
- Gamble & Huff
