Warner Music Group has announced that Hannah Karp has been named EVP & chief communications officer, effective January 26. Karp, who joins after eight years as editor in chief of Billboard, replaces James Steven, who departed for Universal Music Group last month. Karp will be based in New York and report to WMG CEO Robert Kyncl.
According to the announcement, Karp will spearhead WMG’s global communications and brand marketing strategies, manage all internal and external messaging, and oversee the company’s philanthropic efforts and special events.
Kyncl said: “Hannah’s expert insights, sharp instincts, and innovative approach to storytelling make her the ideal leader to help shape and communicate our future-focused vision during a time of rapid and dynamic evolution. She is widely respected across the business and creative communities, bringing invaluable relationships and a broad perspective shaped by over two decades at the center of the music and media conversation. We’re very happy to welcome her to WMG.”
Karp joined Billboard in 2017 as News Director before being elevated to editor-in-chief the following year. She previously spent 13 years as a staff reporter at The Wall Street Journal, where she covered the music industry as well as beats ranging from sports and travel to the economy, following stints in London, Brussels, and São Paulo.
Earlier on Tuesday, Billboard announced that Leila Cobo and Jason Lipshutz have been elevated to co-chief content officers, overseeing all editorial operations and effectively replacing Karp. The pair report to Billboard CEO Mike Van.
Billboard is a sibling brand of Variety owned by Penske Media Corp.
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