British Warner Music executive Simon Robson is to depart the major after almost 30 years.
His planned departure in December is part of a wider “strategic alignment” announced by Warner Music Group, including the appointment of Val Blavatnik to the new role of managing director, Warner Music North America, UK & corporate development.
In a memo to colleagues at Warner Music, Simon Robson wrote: “It’s been a privilege to work in such a dynamic industry from the peak of the CD era in 2000, through the difficulties of the digital transition, to a time of turbocharged growth as fans embraced our music on streaming services.”
It’s been a privilege to work in such a dynamic industry
Simon Robson
Robson has been a central figure in Warner Music’s UK and international operations, most recently as president, EMEA, Recorded Music, Warner Music Group.
In his leadership position, Robson spoke to Music Week earlier this year about efforts across the industry to tackle streaming fraud.
His role included responsibility for the UK non-label teams, while the London-based labels have reported into the US for the past year.
You can read the memo from Simon Robson in full below:
I want to share some personal news with you. After nearly 30 incredible years at WMG, I’ve decided that it’s the optimal time for me to explore new opportunities outside the company.
When I first joined, I couldn’t have envisioned the extraordinary journey ahead. It’s been a privilege to work in such a dynamic industry from the peak of the CD era in 2000, through the difficulties of the digital transition, to a time of turbocharged growth as fans embraced our music on streaming services.
I’ve had the most fantastic opportunities at Warner Music, including working in Tokyo for two years and leading Asia out of Hong Kong for six years, as well as visiting many parts of the world to support our amazing artists and talented teams. So many tough challenges and too many unbelievable experiences to highlight any in particular.
It’s been an honour to help nurture so many careers and give brilliant people their shot at being great leaders. And, of course, it’s always a thrill to be among the first to see a new artist and having that truly special moment of realisation that they’re going to grace the world’s biggest stages.
I leave a WM EMEA team bustling with talent, who are going to achieve great things in the future. We’ve so many exciting initiatives in the pipeline, and I’m looking forward to watching as WM EMEA hits new heights in each market and continues its evolution into the complete artist partner.
Over the next few months, my focus will be on ensuring a smooth transition before I take my next steps. I look forward to connecting with many of you before my departure.
Thank you to every single one of you across our global offices for your partnership and friendship over the decades. I’m so proud of what we’ve built together, and I’ll be cheering you on.
