Photo Credit: Jeff Lipsky/Courtesy of the Academy of Country Music
The Academy of Country Music has appointed media and music industry veteran Andy Schuon as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Schuon will officially assume the role on September 1, 2026, working out of the organization’s Nashville office. He succeeds Damon Whiteside, who stepped down on June 30 after leading the ACM since January 2020. Whiteside will serve as CEO Emeritus through the end of 2026 to assist with the transition.
A Veteran Career Across Media
Schuon brings decades of experience across radio, television, labels, and digital platforms.
He first rose to prominence as program director at L.A. radio station KROQ-FM, launching franchises like Loveline. He went on to hold top leadership roles at MTV, VH1, Warner Bros. Records, Universal Music Group, Ticketmaster, and CBS Radio. Schuon was also involved in developing new media initiatives including MTV2, Pressplay, and REVOLT TV. He joins the ACM from Anthem Sports & Entertainment, where he oversaw AXS TV and HDNet Movies.
Industry Executive Changes
ACM Board Chair Cris Lacy praised Schuon’s commitment to innovation and artist advocacy, while Schuon cited “an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen the Academy’s impact” as country music grows globally.
His appointment completes a full leadership refresh across country music’s main trade bodies, following the Country Music Association’s recent announcement that Brittany Schaffer will take over as CMA CEO on January 1, 2027.
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