IEBA Names Brian Wagner New Executive Director

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Brian Wagner. Photo: Courtesy of IEBA

Industry veteran Brian Wagner has been appointed Executive Director of IEBA, effective March 1, 2025. He succeeds Pam Matthews, who is retiring after helming the organization for more than a decade.

“IEBA is deeply committed to its membership and to the music community at large. Brian understands this, and that makes him the perfect person to lead this organization. It is with every confidence that I pass the torch to Brian,” Matthews shares.

IEBA Board Chairwoman Deana Baker adds, “Brian brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leadership roles. Under his direction, the future of IEBA is bright. His vision and dedication resonate with our mission and goals, and we are thrilled to support him in this new role.”

Wagner has nearly 30 years of experience working in multiple facets of the entertainment industry including artist management, concert promotion and as a booking agent. As the founder of Flashpoint Entertainment, he played a pivotal role in launching Nashville venues The Mercy Lounge, Cannery Ballroom and BB King’s Blues Club. In 2006, he was tapped to lead marketing for Ryman Auditorium, where his responsibilities soon grew beyond marketing to curating the annual Bluegrass Series and Sam’s Place – Music for the Spirit. During his tenure, the Ryman earned IEBA Theater of the Year (2009), Pollstar Theater of the Year for six consecutive years (2010-2015), Academy of Country Music Venue of the Year (2010, 2012, 2014) and CMA SRO Venue of the Year (2011-2013).

Wagner became Assistant Commissioner of Marketing for the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development in 2015. His work on the “The Soundtrack of America. Made in Tennessee.” brand campaign was highlighted by collaborations with Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, Jack White and The Roots.

“I am honored to join IEBA and excited about the opportunities,” Wagner shares. “IEBA has a long-standing reputation for excellence. Stepping into this role following Pam is no small task — her leadership has left an enduring legacy. I look forward to working with the Board, our membership, and our partners.”

At IEBA, Wagner joins IEBA staffers Lori Bowman and Jason Conner. Bowman served on IEBA’s Board of Directors from 2011 to 2016 and was appointed Director of Events in 2022. 2025 marks Conner’s 13th IEBA conference and third as the association’s Director of Operations.

IEBA’s 55th annual conference will take place Oct. 5-7, 2025, at Grand Hyatt Nashville with agency parties at The Pinnacle, the new concert venue in the Nashville Yards development.

LB Cantrell
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