Fair Trade Services Announces Executive Promotions

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Darren Elrod & James Rueger

Christian music executive Darren Elrod has been promoted to President of independent label Fair Trade Services (FTS). The label has also promoted James Rueger to Chief Creative Officer, and both executives will report to Founder & CEO Jeff Moseley.

Fair Trade Services is home to multi-Platinum and Gold-selling artists including MercyMe, Phil Wickham, CeCe Winans, Micah Tyler, Anthony Brown & Group TherAPy, The Afters and more.

Elrod joined the FTS team three years ago as COO. With more than 20 years in the industry, he served as COO at Provident Label Group prior to FTS. In his expanded role, Elrod will oversee all aspects of business, financial and marketing matters while continuing to manage day-to-day activities.

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited about the future,” says Elrod. “We have such an incredible roster of artists at Fair Trade Services and this company exists to serve these artists well. I look forward to continuing this work with Jeff, James and the rest of the team.”

Rueger has been with FTS since 2005. He initially joined as A&R Manager, leading to his previous role of Sr. VP of A&R. Now as Chief Creative Officer, Rueger will oversee all A&R aspects and creative-related objectives for both recorded music and music publishing businesses.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to spend 19 years at Fair Trade Services working alongside and advocating for our gifted, passionate artists and songwriters,” Rueger says. “They are incredible music makers, and I’m as excited as I’ve ever been to continue the journey with them.”

“Darren and James have consistently exhibited excellence in their respective areas of responsibility for our company,” says Moseley. “This is public recognition of what our artists and managers have already known. They—along with our amazing team—have continued to deliver for our roster of artists for many years. Their promotions are well-deserved and strengthen Fair Trade Services for the years ahead.”

Lorie Hollabaugh
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