Robert Kyncl Named CEO of Warner Music Group

Robert Kyncl was named the new CEO of Warner Music Group, effective Jan. 1, 2023. As Kyncl transitions into his new role, he will be working alongside current CEO Steve Cooper for the month of January. Starting on Feb. 1, Kyncl will then become the sole CEO and assume Cooper’s board seat on WMG’s Board of Directors.

“After a thorough search, we’re delighted to be appointing Robert Kyncl, w ho will make an outstanding leader for WMG’s continued transformation and success,” WMG’s Board of Directors said in a statement. “We thank Steve for his many accomplishments over more than a decade, and we look forward to welcoming our new CEO in January.”

Prior to his new role, Kyncl worked with YouTube, playing a central role in the company’s strategy and impact on entertainment and culture. Kyncl had his hand in much of what YouTube has done in the past 12 years, joining the company in 2010 and driving the development and expansion of the platform’s creator, artist, and media company ecosystem. Kyncle also lead the launch of YouTube’s paid subscription services. Before joining YouTube, Kyncl spent seven years at streaming giant Netflix.

Music is an incredible creative force, with an unmatched ability to bring emotions, build communities, and propel change,” Kyncl said in a statement. “We’re just at the beginning of what’s possible in recognizing music’s true power, value, and reach. Thanks to Steve and his team, WMG is very well positioned for a future of serving artists and songwriters, as well as their fans. I’m looking forward to partnering with Max [Lousada], Guy [Moot,] Marianne [Marshall], and all of the company’s leadership, and I thank the WMG’s Board of Directors, Len and Steve, for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at this iconic company.”

After first being appointed in August 2011, Cooper has served as the longest-running CEO in WMG’s history. Under Cooper’s leadership, WMG has expanded its investment in artists and songwriters, become the first music entertainment company to report streaming as its largest source of recorded revenue, and established itself as a Web 3.0 innovator. Within the last decade, WMG has also expanded with the acquirement of companies such as Parlophone Label Group, Gold Typhoon, Spinning’, and 300.

Steve Cooper added of Kyncl’s new role, “Robert is a fantastic choice for CEO. “He’s a hugely talented executive who’ll bring dynamic energy to WMG and the music entertainment business. He’ll have world-class partners in WMG’s senior management and global team. I’m very proud of all we’ve accomplished together, attracting and nurturing amazing artists and songwriters, while leading the industry in the use of new technologies and the expansion into emerging markets. After a smooth handover with Robert is complete, I’m looking forward to becoming a full-time fan of the best team in the business.