A2IM Begins Search For New CEO
As part of its succession planning, the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) has initiated a search for a new leader to head the organization, which represents more than 750 member companies across the U.S.
Founded in 2005 in response to the digital transformation of the music industry, A2IM aims to promote economic fairness and market equality, while serving as an advocacy platform for the diverse and unified independent sector.
Under the leadership of Dr. Richard James Burgess, A2IM has experienced significant growth over the past 20 years, reaching numerous key milestones that have strengthened its role as a leading advocate for the independent music sector. Burgess recently announced that he is stepping down as President and CEO of the organization in 2026.
“As I prepare to step down as President and CEO of A2IM, I am deeply proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” shares Burgess. “The future of independent music is bright, and it’s vital that we find a new leader who will continue to build on our strong foundation, fostering growth, advocacy, and innovation within our community. The search for my successor is a crucial step in ensuring that A2IM remains at the forefront of the global music landscape, and I’m confident that the right person will carry forward our mission with passion and vision.”
As the organization looks toward the future of independent music, they are seeking an leader to define strategy and guide services for both its 501 membership trade organization and 501 non-profit entity. This includes overseeing advocacy, events, education and community initiatives. The ideal candidate will also be an operational leader, responsible for P&L management and staff oversight.
The CEO’s primary responsibility will be to develop and implement a sustainable ecosystem for independent recorded music labels to thrive in in an evolving legal, commercial and technological environment. The new CEO will serve as the voice of the core independent label membership, while consistently anticipating the needs of the broader community and gathering input to guide the ongoing evolution of A2IM’s initiatives and services. The CEO will report to the organization’s Board of Directors and Advisory Board.
“We are incredibly grateful for Richard’s leadership and the tremendous impact he has had on A2IM and the independent music community,” says A2IM Board of Directors Chair Steven Hill. “His collaboration, drive, and vision have given our organization a strong foundation with which to enter our crucial next chapter.”
To oversee the executive recruiting process, A2IM has partnered with EnterGain, a firm that frequently collaborates with several of its member companies. EnterGain is co-led by James Celentano, who conducted the search that brought Burgess on board a decade ago and also led the search 20 years ago that resulted in the appointment of A2IM’s first president, Don Rose.
“My team and I are honored and humbled to support A2IM and its members, at what again is a pivotal time of change and opportunity for independent owners of recorded copyrights,” explains EnterGain’s Head of Operations Mikal Celentano. “We have already begun identifying and interviewing a diverse pool of candidates.”
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to reach out to James@EnterGain.com and Mikal@EnterGain.com, with “A2IM CEO” in the subject line.
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