Columbia chair adjusted (original) (raw)

Will Botwin has been upped to chairman of Sony BMG’s Columbia Records Group, paving the way for Columbia to tap S-Curve founder and president Steve Greenberg as the label’s prexy.

Botwin will be responsible for determining the overall strategic direction of the group, as well as for overseeing all aspects of Columbia Records.

Botwin has been president of the Columbia Records Group since 2002 and for the four years prior, he was exec VP/general manager. During those years, he played an integral role in all creative areas of the company, as well as the day-to-day management of label operations plus directly overseeing domestic and international A&R.

Botwin has developed acts such as Coheed & Cambria, Lost Prophets, Jessica Simpson, Train and Marc Anthony.

He joined Columbia as senior VP in 1996 after 15 years spent heading his Side One Management firm. Among the artists he managed were Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Rosanne Cash, Mark Isham, Lisa Loeb, Liz Phair, Los Lobos, Luscious Jackson and Steve Earle.

“Will’s deep understanding of the market place, and unwavering commitment to his artists combine to make him an invaluable leader,” said Michele Anthony, chief operating officer, Sony Music Label Group, U.S.

An announcement is expected this week on the hiring of Greenberg, whose label has had success with Fountains of Wayne and Joss Stone.