Tom Corson Upped to WMG COO

Warner Music Group is elevating one of its most respected executives, promoting Warner Records Co-Chairman and COO Tom Corson to chief operating officer of WMG, reporting directly to CEO Robert Kyncl.

In the newly expanded role, Corson will oversee key operational areas—including global marketing, merchandising, direct-to-consumer initiatives and supply chain. He’ll continue to work alongside Warner Records Co-Chairman and CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck during a transition period.

"Tom is one of the most dynamic, respected and effective executives in the music business and a fierce champion of talent," Kyncl said. "Together with Aaron, he's helped architect Warner Records' resurgence, and we'll leverage his vision, disciplined execution and deep experience across the entire company as we continue to deliver for our artists and songwriters while achieving our top- and bottom-line goals."

Corson called the appointment "an honor," adding, "I'm looking forward to building on our momentum, turbocharging operations and creating even more impactful opportunities for our incredible artists and songwriters worldwide."

Since joining Warner Records in 2018, Corson and Bay-Schuck have overseen one of the industry's most dramatic label turnarounds, expanding market share while achieving major successes for acts including Dua Lipa, Zach Bryan, Benson Boone, Teddy Swims, Linkin Park, Cody Johnson, Madonna, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Michael Bublé and SOMBR.

Corson's influence extends well beyond the boardroom; last fall he was honored with City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award, recognizing both his industry leadership and longstanding philanthropic work.

The promotion affords Kyncl a seasoned operator with more than four decades of executive experience—including previous stints at RCA Music Group—to help drive WMG's next phase.

Earlier Friday the company announced that CFO/COO Armin Zerza was leaving his role, effective immediately. WMG has initiated a formal search for its next CFO.