New WMG CEO Max Lousada is putting his stamp on the company with a major change in the executive suite of his flagship label. Current Warner Brothers Records Chairman and CEO Cameron Strang will step down at the end of 2017, and Aaron Bay-Schuck and Tom Corson will be named as Co-Chairmen and CEO and COO respectively.
The duo will work as a partnership, with Corson running the label’s operations and Bay-Schuck leading WBR’s creative direction. Both will report to Max Lousada who, yesterday, began his new role as parent Warner Music Group’s CEO of Recorded Music.
Corson joins from RCA Music Group, where he has been President & COO since 2011. Bay-Schuck joins from Interscope Geffen A&M (IGA) where, as President, A&R, he oversees A&R and creative development.
In making the announcement, Lousada said: “At WMG, we’re building a creative and entrepreneurial environment where artists can change culture and make music that matters. Tom and Aaron don’t just share our ambition; they both have it in their DNA. That’s why they’ll be such an inspiring duo at WBR, which is always strongest when it’s at its most daring and unexpected. At the cutting edge of a new generation of leaders, Aaron has impeccable taste and a rare ability to help distinctive artists grow into global superstars. Equally, Tom has a super-driven, imaginative approach to championing talent and mentoring executives, as well as a wealth of experience at both major and indie labels. They’re a dynamic combination that will bring in a fresh, new era at one of the greatest record labels of all time.”
“Cameron has guided WBR through a period of unprecedented change and has added to the label’s remarkable musical legacy. He will leave with our gratitude and utmost respect,” Lousada added.