Warner Chappell Music (WCM) says it has unified its global sync operations, bringing its frontline, catalog, and now Production Music sync teams together under Rich Robinson, EVP, Global Synchronization and Media.
According to WCM, the move will see Production Music’s VP, Creative Licensing, Gavin Caroll, now report directly to Robinson, creating a “more cohesive and strategic approach to pitching across the company’s full repertoire”.
At the same time, Robinson will take oversight of Warner Chappell’s Audio Asset division.
The team, led by Kailey Tenn, manages the publisher’s catalog, making “it easy for sync teams to find and use the right materials,” WCM said on Thursday (December 11), adding that “this integration will enable faster, more precise delivery to clients and partners”.
Robinson will also continue to oversee the global film, TV, and media music division.
Christine Belden leads the US team, with Faith Adams overseeing the UK business reporting to Belden.
Together, according to WCM, the team has deepened the company’s “relationships in the filmed media space,” including with studio A24, Matt Damon & Ben Affleck’s Artists Equity, Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat, EA Games, and Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa Pictures.
WCM said that these relationships have “opened new doors for the company’s diverse roster of songwriters”.
During Robinson’s tenure, the Sync team has achieved a series of high-profile placements spanning major campaigns and entertainment projects – from Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love featured in Nike’s first Super Bowl ad in almost 30 years, to notable features in Bridget Jones’ Diary and Babygirl.
WCM said that Robinson’s team has also played a “pivotal role” working with the estates of “legendary artists like Tom Petty, David Bowie, George Michael, and more, ensuring these iconic catalogs continue to find new life and reach audiences in exciting, meaningful ways”.
An industry veteran, Robinson first joined Warner Chappell in 2018 and was quickly promoted to EVP and Global Head of Synchronization in October 2019 – marking the first time WCM had a dedicated global sync leader.
“I’m thankful to Guy, Carianne, and everyone across Warner Chappell for their support as we take this important next step in strengthening this core part of our business.”
Rich Robinson
Robinson said: “Sync is such a powerful bridge between our songwriters and audiences around the world. By bringing these teams together, we’re unlocking new creative potential – working smarter, moving faster, and delivering a more integrated, end-to-end experience for our partners.
“I’m thankful to Guy, Carianne, and everyone across Warner Chappell for their support as we take this important next step in strengthening this core part of our business.”
“Rich and his team have done an exceptional job driving our sync business, and with these functions under his leadership, Warner Chappell will continue to innovate and lead in this important space.”
Carianne Marshall, Co-Chair & COO, Warner Chappell Music added: “We’re always looking for ways to evolve and ensure Warner Chappell serves as a forward-thinking music publisher – built for the modern era and ready for the future.
“This move is an important step in working even more strategically to deliver the greatest possible value for our songwriters.
“Rich and his team have done an exceptional job driving our sync business, and with these functions under his leadership, Warner Chappell will continue to innovate and lead in this important space.”
