Samantha Juneman has been appointed head of music at Mattel in the United States, one of several executive changes that also include a new Warner Records label in Germany, a London office for Xelon in the United Kingdom, and a new agent at Paladin Artists.
Mattel names head of music#
Samantha Juneman joined Mattel as head of music on Aug. 31. She reports to Natalia Premovic, chief consumer productions and experiences officer.
Juneman was previously senior vice president at Iconic Artists Group, owned by Irving Azoff, where she worked on legacy preservation for artists including Wu-Tang Clan, Frank Sinatra and Cher. Before that, she held executive leadership roles at IPG Media Group, Universal Music Group and Warner Music.
Paladin Artists also added a new agent.
Warner Records Germany launches in Berlin#
Warner Records Germany has launched in Berlin with Lea Londa as director. She reports to Jean-Sebastien Permal, senior vice president of artists and repertoire (A&R) for Central Europe and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Warner Music Central Europe.
In a joint statement, Aaron Bay-Schuck, chief executive officer and co-chairman of Warner Records, and Tom Corson, chief operating officer and co-chairman of Warner Records and chief operating officer of Warner Music Group, said: “Warner Records has always been a label built around iconic, visionary artists. Launching Warner Records Germany reinforces our global commitment to championing creative talent, empowering the German team to discover, nurture and elevate the next generation of artists both in Germany and on the world stage.”
Permal said: “Launching Warner Records Germany is a defining step in our growth, and Lea was the clear choice to lead it. She has spent her career earning the trust of artists, and she brings a sharp point of view about what a modern frontline label should give them. Under her leadership from Berlin, Warner Records Germany will become a genuine home for artists at every stage of their careers.”
Londa said: “Bringing the iconic legacy of Warner Records to Germany is a pivotal moment, and I am grateful to both Niels and Seb for their trust in my vision to lead this new chapter. I am excited to shape this future with the artists I have worked closely with for years, and to welcome new talent into a true musical home. Together with the team, we will build a creative culture that makes Warner Records Germany a successful force in the market.”
Neils Walboomers, president of Warner Music Central Europe, said: “Bringing the legendary Warner Records brand to Germany underscores our commitment to the region. We are building an elite, modern label model that puts artists first and drives domestic culture forward. I’m thrilled to support Lea and Seb as they lead this charge from the heart of Berlin.”
Xelon opens London office#
Global independent digital distribution company Xelon has launched a United Kingdom office in London and announced new hires.
- Jack Lawrenson, global streaming manager
- Darren Latimber, U.K./Europe label manager
Gareth Davies, head of global business development, will often be in the company’s London office.
Ashley Gay, managing director at Xelon, said in a statement: “The U.K. is a priority market for Xelon, and opening the London office signals progression and commitment to embracing opportunities into the territory for clients, while maintaining our hands-on approach.”
Davies added: “The U.K. and Europe are key territories for Xelon, and we’re delighted by the positive signals the London office launch is generating. Building on an existing presence and solid relationships in the region, Xelon’s enhanced visibility amplifies the business as a serious option on both sides of the world, for artists and labels alike.”
Giancarlo Cordasco has been appointed U.S. partnerships manager, based in North America.
