David Kaefer to Step Down as Spotify’s VP of Music and Audiobook Businesses

In another shake-up in Spotify’s leadership, David Kaefer, Vice President, Global Leader, Music and Audiobook Businesses, will step down at the end of this month. He will be replaced by Charlie Hellman, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Music.

David Kaefer:

• Kaefer came on as Vice President, Global Leader, Business Affairs in 2018.

• In 2023, he oversaw the launch of Spotify’s audiobook arm, taking on the title of his most recent role.

Charlie Hellman:

• Hellman has been with Spotify since 2011.

• He introduced early iterations of recommendation and social features to the platform.

• After that, he shifted to Spotify for Artists, working on fan engagement, promotion, and monetization.

• Currently, he oversees anti-fraud protections and royalty system processes as well.

What they said:

• Kaefer: After seven years, I’m moving on from Spotify and entering a new phase in my career. I’ll be advising and investing in tech, media, and sustainability while working closer to home on the West Coast. I’m extremely grateful to Daniel Ek, Alex Norstrom, and Gustav Söderström for trusting me to lead Spotify’s music and audiobooks businesses. Also – thank you to a long-time mentor, Horacio Gutierrez, for recruiting me.”

• Alex Norström, Spotify’s Co-President and Chief Business Officer: “[Hellman’s] proven ability to think strategically, advocate for both artists and Spotify’s role in growing Music, and collaborate effectively across the company and our industry make him the ideal leader for the music organization of tomorrow.”