Warner Music Japan has appointed Takeshi Okada as Representative Director, President and CEO of Warner Music Japan.
He joins Warner Music from Universal Music Group’s label EMI Records Japan, where he has served as managing director since 2018.
He supported the success of artists such as singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya and rock band Mrs. GREEN APPLE.
Mr. Okada’s career includes more than 10 years at Universal Music Japan, where he helped develop digital marketing strategies and adapt to a streaming-dominated landscape.
Effective December 2, Mr. Okada will report to Simon Robson, who oversees Warner Music Group’s Asia Pacific recording operations until a permanent appointee is appointed.
Mr. Okada will succeed Kazu Kobayashi, who announced last month that he would step down as president and CEO of Warner Music Japan.
Mr. Kobayashi has been the president of Warner Music Japan since 2014 and has played an important role in the careers of artists such as Aimyon, THE YELLOW MONKEY, Kobukuro, TWICE, MISAMO, and ONE OK ROCK.
The leadership transition will be supported by Dr. Kenji Chatan, who was recently appointed Chairman of Warner Music Japan.
Takeshi Okada said, “I am excited to take over the leadership of Warner Music Japan at a pivotal time in the company’s evolution, and to succeed Kazu Kobayashi, who was known throughout the industry as a champion of artists. I’m honored to become one.”
“I am excited to assume the leadership of Warner Music Japan at a pivotal time in the company’s evolution. I succeed Kazu Kobayashi, who was known throughout the industry as a champion of artists. I’m honored.”
Takeshi Okada, Warner Music Japan
Mr. Okada said: “We have very ambitious growth plans in this rapidly changing market, driving Warner Music Japan’s evolution and ensuring that Warner Music Japan can consistently grow and prosper. “I am committed to doing so,” he added.
Simon Robson said: “It is great news that highly regarded Takeshi Okada has agreed to run our business in Japan as we accelerate our growth plans in the world’s second largest music market.
“I know Kaz and Kenji will work with him to ensure a smooth leadership transition. It shows that there is.”
Kazu Kobayashi’s departure follows that of Kazuhiro Shimada, who stepped down as chief operating officer of Warner Music Japan in July.
He joined the company from Amazon Music Japan in November 2022 and served as director and general manager.
The change in leadership at Warner Music Japan follows recent changes within the broader Warner Music Group. This includes the departure of Kevin Lyles as CEO of 300 Elektra Entertainment at the end of September, the departure of Max Lousada as CEO of WMG’s recorded music division, and Julie Greenwald as chairman of Atlantic Music Group. This includes the resignation of a person.
world music business
