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Hannah Karp Appointed EVP and Chief Communications Officer at Warner Music Group

Published 20 January 2026

Warner Music Group announced on January 20 the appointment of Hannah Karp as executive vice president and chief communications officer, effective January 26. Karp, who has served as editor-in-chief of Billboard for the past six years, will be based in New York and report directly to CEO Robert Kyncl. She replaces James Steven, who left the role last month after more than a decade with the company to become executive vice president and chief communications officer at Universal Music Group.

In her new position, Karp will lead Warner Music Group's global communications and brand marketing strategies, manage internal and external messaging across the company's diverse portfolio, and oversee philanthropic initiatives and special events. The move comes as the music industry navigates rapid changes driven by streaming advancements, artist collaborations, and evolving consumer habits.

Kyncl praised Karp's qualifications in a statement. "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," he said. "She is widely respected across...

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