Tony Harlow succeeds Max Lousada to lead Warner Music UK
Warner Music Group has named Tony Harlow chairman and president of its UK operations.
TMN understands he will begin the new role in February next year and succeeds Max Lousada, who remains chief executive of recorded music for WMG.
The British executive first joined the music major in 2010, where he worked on breaking artists early in their careers from Warner’s Australian headquarters, including Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa.
Harlow says he’s “happy to be coming home” and to continue his work with the WMG team.
“The UK is a vital source for many of the world’s most influential artists, cultural trends, and creative innovations,” said Harlow of his appointment.
“At the same time, it’s been leading the way in erasing the barriers of genre and geography for international talent.
“I’m very happy to be coming home to work with the extraordinary, record-breaking artists and team at WMUK.
“I’m so pleased I’ll get to continue working with my amazing colleagues at WEA in this new role, and I want to thank Max for giving me this wonderful opportunity.”
UK-born Harlow first served in Australia in 1997 as managing director of EMI Music Australia after rising through the ranks at EMI UK.
He then returned to London in 2002 after being offered the chief executive role of Richard Branson’s V2 label.
When V2 was taken over by Universal Music Group in 2007, Harlow stayed briefly with Universal’s global marketing team before joining its merchandise division Bravado.
Harlow is currently president of WMG’s artist and label services arm WEA, based in New York. He relocated from Sydney to replace former president Matt Signore, who became COO of Warner Music Nashville.
During his three year stint at WEA, Harlow is credited with expanding streaming-focused marketing and the direct-to-consumer synergy for Songkick, EMP and Uproxx.
Lousada has labelled the incoming chief “a true artist champion” and “entrepreneurial leader”.
“He’ll be a great mentor to the next generation of creatives and executives, building an environment where original talent is nurtured and challenged,” said Lousada.
“This is obviously a job that’s very close to my heart, and I couldn’t be leaving it in better hands.”