#USA #New York #billboard #Warner Music Group #Hannah Karp

Hannah Karp Takes the Helm as EVP & Chief Communications Officer at Warner Music Group

In a significant move for Warner Music Group (WMG), the music giant has announced the appointment of Hannah Karp as Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer. This pivotal role, set to commence on January 26, 2026, marks Karp's transition from her successful tenure as Editor-in-Chief at Billboard, where she played a crucial role in shaping the publication's direction over the past decade.

A Career Built on Experience

Karp's career trajectory is impressive. Joining Billboard as News Director in 2017, she rapidly ascended to Editor-in-Chief just a year later, overseeing a variety of editorial content across digital, social, and print platforms. Her leadership helped the publication engage a rapidly expanding global audience of music enthusiasts, creators, and industry insiders. Karp’s prior experience includes a notable 13-year stint at The Wall Street Journal, where she covered not only the music industry but also various sectors including sports, travel, and economics, spanning across international locations such as London, Brussels, and São Paulo.

Karp holds a BA in economics from Duke University and a master's degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. Her academic background complements her extensive practical experience, positioning her as an invaluable asset to WMG.

Shaping WMG's Future

In her new role at WMG, Karp will lead global communications and brand marketing strategies. Her responsibilities will be crucial in ensuring a cohesive message is maintained across the company's diverse range of businesses. This includes managing both internal and external communications, along with overseeing philanthropic initiatives and special events.

The CEO of WMG, Robert Kyncl, expressed his enthusiasm for Karp’s appointment, highlighting her sharp instincts and innovative storytelling capabilities. “Hannah’s expert insights and relationships within the business and creative communities will be instrumental as we navigate this period of rapid evolution,” Kyncl stated, underlining the trust and expectations placed on Karp’s shoulders.

A Vision for Innovation

Karp’s selection underscores WMG's commitment to enhancing its communication strategies during a dynamic era in the music industry. As the landscape continues to evolve, Karp’s innovative approach will likely play a key role in developing strategies that resonate with a diverse and global audience. With her tenure at WMG commencing, all eyes will be on how she integrates her extensive experience into her new role and how she plans to communicate WMG's vision moving forward.

With over two decades of experience entrenched in the heart of music and media discussions, Karp's influence is expected to extend beyond traditional frameworks. The upcoming months will reveal her strategies aimed at fostering stronger connections between WMG and both its audience and partners.

As WMG embarks on this new chapter with Hannah Karp at the helm of communications, anticipation builds regarding the innovative approaches she may introduce and how they will impact the company's trajectory in the ever-evolving music industry landscape.