Andy West is stepping down as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Warner Music Canada. Julia Hummel, VP of digital strategy and business development and Madelaine Napoleone, VP of digital strategy and business development, will step in as co-GMs.
Today (Nov. 18), the Canadian label announced the news in an exclusive email to Billboard Canada. In the note, WM Canada confirmed that West, who assumed his role for three years, had exited the company, but did not share any further details.
The industry veteran's departure follows the exit of former WM Canada President Kristin Burke, who was succeeded by Eric Wong back in September.
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"My time at Warner Music Canada has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my career — a chance to work with extraordinary artists, build an amazing team, and help shape the future of music in this country," Burke wrote in a statement to Billboard Canada. "Change is never easy, but it is often part of growth. With that in mind, I want to let you know that I will be stepping down from my role as President of Warner Music Canada."
Burke and West served as two major pillars for the major Canadian label. Earlier this year, the duo ranked at No. 2 on Billboard Canada Power Players, citing their ability to modernize operational changes and create connections between artists and their superfans.
West stepped into the role as EVP and GM in 2022. At WM Canada, he reported to Burke and led the major label's strategic teams across marketing, digital, commercial revenue, publicity, promotion and licensing. His appointment came as they were expanding their roster, signing acts from an increasing range of genres and working with a wider range of partners than ever to help tell their artists’ stories and connect them with fans.
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“I’ve worked with Kristen over many years and have a huge respect for her leadership and strategic mindset. I’m so excited that she’s asked me to be part of her ambitious plans for growth at Warner Music Canada," he shared of his appointment in 2022. "For us, everything starts with the artists and the music, and we are passionate about harnessing all the tools at our disposal to help artists build relationships with fans and develop careers in this fast-changing business.”
Before joining WM Canada, West served as Country Manager for Apple Music for seven years, following previous stints at major companies including Sony Music Canada, Yahoo! Music and Warner Bros Entertainment.
With Wong, Hummel and Napoleone's new appointments at the label, the leadership shift is a part of Warner Music Group's global plan to streamline operations and increase investment in music.
