Andy Schuon Has Been Appointed CEO of the Academy of Country Music

The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has named Andy Schuon as its new CEO. He will officially take the position on September 1, working out of ACM’s Nashville office.

Background:

• ACM’s previous CEO, Damon Whiteside, stepped down on June 30 after holding the position since 2020.

• The departure was expected as Whiteside announced his plans to leave before this year’s ACM Awards.

• Whiteside will serve in a transitional emeritus role until the end of this year.

• Schuon has worked at MTV, VH1, Warner Bros. Records, Universal Music Group, Ticketmaster, and CBS Radio throughout his long career.

• ZRG Partners and the ACM board led the search for the new CEO.

What they said:

• Cris Lacy, Chair of the ACM Board: “Andy Schuon’s remarkable career reflects a lifelong commitment to innovation, creativity, and serving artists. The ACM Board of Directors are excited to partner with Andy as we continue to strengthen the Academy’s impact, expand its reach, and create even greater value for our members and the country music community.”

• Schuon: “The most rewarding moments of my career have come from building for the future and embracing innovation while honoring the artists and creative communities that make music so powerful. Throughout every chapter, from radio and television to streaming, digital media and the music business, the constant has been the transformative power of music to bring people together. … The organization has a remarkable legacy of celebrating the artists, songwriters, and industry professionals who define country music. As the genre continues to reach new audiences around the world, I see an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the Academy’s impact, deepen engagement with our members, artists, partners and fans while ensuring the organization continues to lead the industry through its next era of growth and innovation and help shape an even brighter future for country music.”