Warner Music Group announced on Monday (Sept. 21) that Carianne Marshall, the COO/co-chair of its publishing arm Warner Chappell, will transition out of her role at the end of this month “as the company streamlines its leadership structure,” according to a press release.
A company source says Marshall’s departure is part of a WMG-wide shift away from having co-chairs lead their companies. Similarly, in July, sister company Warner Records moved then-co-chair and COO Tom Corson into different role as COO of WMG.
Marshall leaves her role after a seven-year tenure. Guy Moot, the company’s CEO and co-chair, will remain as the company’s sole chair, and Marshall will remain with the company through the end of the calendar year “to ensure a seamless transition,” the press release says.
Marshall was brought into Warner Chappell in June 2018 after a successful run as the popular independent music publisher SONGS. Known for her expertise in synchronization licensing, a increasingly important role in music publishing, and her indie mindset, Marshall came to the major music publisher and brought a sharpened focus to the company. This included creating a new Creative Services department which would focus on providing unique commercial and creative opportunities for Warner Chappell writers, rethinking what a publisher offers to songwriters in the modern age.
A year after starting at WCM, Marshall was joined by Moot, a British A&R executive from Sony, who took the helm as CEO and co-chair. Together, Moot and Marshall became known as a formidable leadership duo, a rarity in the music industry, bringing together Marshall’s licensing chops and Moot’s creative expertise.
“When Guy and I began this journey together, we wanted to build a songwriter-first home for the creative community,” Marshall says. “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.”
“Carianne has been an extraordinary partner and a fierce champion for our songwriters and our people over the past seven years,” Moot adds. “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.”
Robert Kyncl, CEO of WMG, says: “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.”
