BBC AI Leader Joins Epidemic Sound, Meta Exec Takes Helm at DDEX, and More Top Music Industry Moves

Executive Turntable: Key Leadership Moves Across the Music Industry

Here’s a concise update on recent executive appointments, promotions, and organizational changes shaping the music business landscape.

Epidemic Sound Names Danijela Horak VP of Artificial Intelligence

Epidemic Sound has appointed Danijela Horak as vice president of artificial intelligence, effective September 1. Horak brings over 12 years of AI experience from media and enterprise sectors, notably leading AI research at the BBC where she launched tools like BBC Transcribe and BBC Verify. She will report to CTO Rikard Herlitz and focus on advancing AI-driven creative tools such as AI voiceovers and smart audio recommendations.

CTO Herlitz emphasized that Epidemic Sound’s AI initiatives aim to support and enhance human creativity rather than replace it. This approach aligns with CEO Oscar Höglund’s vision of leveraging AI to improve creators’ workflows.

LOCASH’s Galaxy Label Group Expands Leadership

• Cheryl Broz has been promoted to vice president of operations. She will oversee digital initiatives and marketing strategy, building on her experience at Crave Records, Columbia, Arista, EMI, Island-Def Jam, and Curb Records.
• Mitch Mills joins as national director of promotion. His responsibilities cover multiple formats including Hot AC, pop, and country. Mills brings 15 years of experience from Atlantic Records/Elektra and Motown Records.

Meta’s Dan Simpson Takes Chair at DDEX

Dan Simpson, head of music operations at Meta, has been elected chair of the Digital Data Exchange (DDEX) board, succeeding Kim Beauchamp of Universal Music Group. Simpson has been instrumental in DDEX working groups covering digital sales reporting, release notifications, and streaming fraud detection.

Neal Spielberg Leads Leadership Music Board

Neal Spielberg of Spielberg Entertainment was elected president of the Leadership Music board for 2025–26. Leadership Music supports music industry professionals in leadership roles nationwide. Joining Spielberg are Diane Pearson, Scott Gerow, Steve Eggart, Brad Bissell, and six new board members.

A2IM Announces Key Staffing Updates

• Grey Gordon joins as communications and digital marketing manager, bringing over a decade of experience in branding and digital strategy.
• Chirag Patel was promoted to senior director of membership, known for expanding A2IM’s network internationally.
• Emmaline McCourt advanced to membership director, leading member onboarding and mentorship programs, while representing A2IM on industry boards.

iHeartMedia Restructures Business Development

iHeartMedia renamed its Multi-Market Partnerships Group to the Enterprise Business Development Group (EPDG), with Julie Donahue appointed president. Donahue, a 23-year veteran, will oversee integration of sales and partnership efforts across divisions including Inside Sales and Unified Partnerships. Leadership views this restructuring as a move to strengthen performance and long-term growth.

Nashville Industry Updates

• Kaileen Smith was named director of A&R at RED Creative Group, focusing on publishing operations and artist support. Smith has a background with Boom Music Group, UMG Nashville, and Sony Music Nashville.
• George Davis joined GrassRoots Promotion as promotion manager, transitioning from a radio broadcast role.
• David Corlew sold his stake in Blue Hat Records but remains president and executive director of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project, a nonprofit supporting veterans.
• Nashville-based VNTG PR rebranded as Sotis Entertainment Group, representing artists including Chris Janson and Terry McBride.

Day After Day Productions Leadership Restructuring

Day After Day Productions (DADP) announced several leadership changes to support growth:

• Aidan Flynn promoted to co-head of the casinos, corporates, and colleges division alongside CEO Seth Shomes, with Jordan Golenberg as director.
• Michelle Scarbrough leads the theater/PAC/symphony division, joined by Olivia Bentley as director.
• Marcus Greenstein heads the fairs division.
• Josh Jones promoted to director of central services and senior booking coordinator.
• Jordan Burger joins as senior agent focusing on festivals and destination events.
• Kafarrah Chavarria appointed acting director of human resources.

DADP, relaunched in 2021 with backing from Yucaipa Investments, continues to grow as an indie booking agency.

Nex Team Inc. and Amuse Leadership Moves

• Helena Ngo named head of music at Nex Team Inc., leading music strategy, licensing, and artist partnerships. She reports to VP Alex Wu and brings prior experience from Fender and Dolby.
• Steeve Führ appointed chief financial officer at Swedish digital music distributor Amuse. Führ has extensive financial leadership experience, including IPOs and international expansion. His focus will be on global growth and financial discipline.

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