Warner Chappell Co-Chair/COO Carianne Marshall to Step Down From Post

Warner Music Group is restructuring the leadership of its publishing arm, Warner Chappell Music. Carianne Marshall, who has served as both co-chair and chief operating officer, will depart at the close of this month. The company describes the change as a streamlining of its executive structure. Effective October 1, current WCM CEO Guy Moot will assume the role of sole chair. To facilitate a smooth handover, Marshall will stay on through December 31, according to an official announcement. This consolidation mirrors a broader trend in the music industry, where companies are increasingly opting for singular leadership to speed up decision-making in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Marshall’s departure adds her name to a notable list of senior female executives who have recently exited top positions at major music firms, a development that has prompted quiet concern among industry observers. In recent months, male successors have filled roles previously held by Sylvia Rhone at Epic Records and Julie Greenwald at Warner Music’s Atlantic Records—both figures widely regarded as trailblazers. Marshall, a highly respected figure in publishing circles, joined Warner Chappell in June 2018 after the sale of Songs music publishing, where she was a partner and helped steer successes for artists such as the Weeknd and Lorde. She had co-led the publisher with Moot since April 2019. Her exit, following those of Rhone and Greenwald, raises questions about the retention of women in the upper echelons of music companies, even as diversity initiatives are publicly championed.

During her tenure, Marshall was pivotal in overhauling digital licensing, launching the company’s creative services division, and securing key signings. Warner Chappell’s roster boasts major names including Tom Petty, Grammy-winning songwriter Amy Allen, Kacey Musgraves, Raye, and Gamble & Huff. Robert Kyncl, CEO of Warner Music, praised her contributions: “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.” Kyncl, who took the helm at WMG in 2023, has been vocal about adapting the company to streaming-era economics, making Marshall’s operational expertise particularly valuable during his tenure.

Reflecting on her time at the publisher, Marshall said: “When Guy and I began this journey together, we wanted to build a songwriter-first home for the creative community. 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.” Moot added: “Carianne has been an extraordinary partner and a fierce champion for our songwriters and our people over the past seven years. 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.” Marshall’s next move remains unannounced, but her track record suggests she will remain a influential figure in music publishing.