Jim Roppo Named Vice Chair at Warner Records

The news comes hours after news broke that Roppo, previously chairman and CEO at Republic Records, and other major executives were leaving Universal Music Group.

Former Republic Records chairman and CEO Jim Roppo is joining Warner Records Group as vice chair, Warner Music Group said on Wednesday.

The announcement comes just hours after THR had confirmed wider restructuring at Republic’s parent company Universal Music Group, with Roppo one of the biggest names leaving the company. Roppo will report to Warner Records Group chairman and CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck.

Roppo’s appointment comes months after Tom Corson, who’d previously served as COO at Warner Records, was promoted to COO of the broader Warner Music Group at the end of July. Roppo had previously been at UMG for three decades.

“I’m excited to join Warner Records at such an important moment, with undeniable momentum across the roster,” Roppo said in a statement. “My focus has always been on backing great music and helping teams win, and I look forward to bringing that to Warner. My biggest thanks to Aaron for this opportunity.”

As Bay-Schuck added: “Everything we do is rooted in artist development, and Jim has spent his career ensuring that creatives have the tools, resources, and support to reach their full potential. Few have excelled across so many parts of our business – from digital to commerce to marketing – and that range, paired with a track record of breaking stars, will be invaluable as we accelerate the next phase of growth for Warner Records Group.”

Other than Roppo, other major executives confirmed this week to be leaving UMG included Def Jam CEO Tunji Balogun and Polydor label group president Ben Mortimer.