[UPDATED] Former Billboard editorial director Bill Werde has been named director of the Bandier Program for Music Business and the Entertainment Industries at Syracuse University. The program, established in 2006, was launched with a gift from Sony/ATV Chairman and CEO Martin Bandier as part of SU’s Newhouse School.
Bandier graduated from Syracuse University in 1962.
Since leaving Billboard, Werde did 2 years with a social justice agency and as a consultant for PEN America, Oak View Group, PBS’ “Landmarks Live” music performance series and singer/songwriter Andy Grammer. He was also previously an associate editor at Rolling Stone.
The Bandier Program for Music Business and the Entertainment Industries provides an interdisciplinary curriculum of study in the business of music, media, marketing and entrepreneurship.
“a knowledge and understanding of the music industry that is second to none”
“I’ve known Bill personally for a number of years and he has a knowledge and understanding of the music industry that is second to none,” said Bandier. “I cannot think of a better person to succeed the program’s excellent first director, David Rezak. Bill joins at an incredibly exciting time for the program as it moves to the Newhouse School, and I know with his appointment that it will grow in stature, and its future is in extremely capable hands.”
“Bandier already has the best music industry students and instructors in the world,” says Werde. “This move to the Newhouse School represents an opportunity to leverage some of the best advertising, PR, media, film and television resources and technologies available to students anywhere. I couldn’t be more honored and excited to shape this next chapter of Bandier.”